what is an architect?
As an architect in India, you are a professional who is responsible for designing buildings, structures and landscapes. You use your creativity, technical skills and knowledge of construction to turn concepts and ideas into reality. Your work as an architect covers a wide range of areas, including the planning, design, and supervision of construction projects.
To be a practising architect in India, you must be registered with the Council of Architecture. You also need a bachelor's degree in a relevant subject and experience working with a reputable architecture firm.
Your role as an architect in India goes beyond merely designing buildings. You are also involved in the planning process and must ensure that the design complies with the relevant laws and regulations. You work closely with other professionals such as engineers, surveyors and contractors to ensure the project is completed on time and within budget.
Architects in India play a crucial role in shaping the country's built environment. You use your imagination and technical knowledge to design buildings and structures that look good and are functional, safe, and sustainable.
Does this sound like a career that appeals to your creative side and desire to leave an impact on the world around you? If so, keep reading to learn more about the role, including the skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an architect.
see architect vacanciesaverage salary of an architect
According to Talent, the average salary of an architect in India is approximately ₹21,50,000 per year. This amount is around half the overall pay range for this profession. At the entry-level end of the scale, the average salary is around ₹12,67,143 per year. Meanwhile, the highest-earning architects make around ₹35,00,000 per year on average.
factors that affect architect's pay
One of the biggest factors affecting your pay as an architect is your experience level. The longer you have been a practising architect, the higher the salary you can negotiate. Another factor that can affect your pay is your level of education. An advanced degree or certification may command a higher salary than a basic degree.
Specialised skills and knowledge, such as experience in sustainable design or 3D modelling software, can also make you more valuable to potential employers and increase your potential salary.
The location of the firm you work for can have a significant impact on your pay. Work in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru attracts higher salaries due to the higher cost of living and a increased demand for architectural services.
types of architects
There are many different types of architects in India, each with its own area of expertise or speciality. Below are some of the more common types of architect roles:
- residential architect: this type of architect specialises in designing homes and residential buildings. You work with homeowners and contractors to create spaces that meet their needs. As part of your work, you factor in things like natural surroundings, local zoning laws, and building codes.
- urban designer: urban designers and planners are types of architects specialising in designing and planning large-scale urban areas. In this role, you consider factors like land use, transportation, and infrastructure to create livable communities.
- commercial architect: in this role, you specialise in designing commercial and office buildings, shopping centres, and similar facilities. You are knowledgeable about local zoning laws, building codes, and the unique needs of commercial spaces like accessibility, energy efficiency, and security.
- interior architects: as an interior architect, you work with clients to create functional, aesthetically pleasing interiors that reflect their style and personality. You consider factors such as lighting, colour, and texture. You also factor in furniture and accessory placement to create beautiful and functional spaces.
working as an architect
Are you wondering what architect does daily? Read on to find out architect's work routine and duties.
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duties and responsibilities
The specific duties of an architect include:
- understand clients' needs: one of your primary responsibilities as an architect is to work with clients to understand their needs. You will likely conduct site visits, review existing plans and designs, and gather information about the project's budget and timeline.
- design: once you have a clear understanding of your client's needs, you can begin developing designs for the project. This often involves creating sketches and drawings, selecting materials, and exploring different design options.
- oversee construction: once construction begins, you oversee the process. You work with contractors, sub-contractors and engineers. You ensure that the project is constructed according to plan and meets all local building codes and regulations.
- budget management: you are responsible for managing the budgets and schedules of your projects. You work with project managers, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure that the project stays on track and within budget.
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work environment
As an architect in India, you work in a dynamic and ever-changing environment. The specifics of this environment will depend on various factors, including the size and type of the firm you work for. The specific projects you're working on and any specialities you have will also impact the type of work environment you have.
If you work for large architecture firms, you most likely experience a collaborative environment with a team of architects and related colleagues. This type of environment is fast-paced and challenging but often rewarding. If you are employed by a smaller firm, you may work more independently. In this setting, you are responsible for managing your own projects from start to finish and working closely with clients and contractors.
Regardless of the size of the firm you work for, you spend a significant amount of time in an office setting working on designs and reviewing plans. You may also spend time on the road visiting job sites, conducting site visits, and attending meetings with stakeholders.
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who are your colleagues?
You work with a variety of professionals to design and build structures. Your colleagues will likely include other architects, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, field engineers, contractors, project managers, and other professionals involved in the construction industry.
Certain areas of architecture specialism require you to work more with particular types of colleagues. Examples of these colleagues include interior designers, landscape architects, and urban planners. For commercial and municipal projects, you collaborate with local authorities, such as building inspectors and zoning officials.
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work schedule
As an architect in India, your work schedule may be unpredictable and dependent on the demands of your projects and clients. 9-to-5 schedules are not uncommon in this profession; however, you may also have to work evenings and weekends. This is especially the case when you have tight deadlines or are working on a particularly challenging project.
Your role may also involve travelling to job sites, attending meetings with clients and contractors, and conducting site visits. Such aspects of your job require flexibility, as travel times can make your hours less regular
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job outlook
The job outlook for architects in India is positive, with the growth of the construction industry and an increased demand for architects with experience and expertise. In recent years, the Indian government has made a concerted effort to promote infrastructure development, which has led to a surge in construction and development projects. The increasing popularity of green and sustainable building practices has also created new opportunities for architects in India.
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advantages of finding an architect job through randstad
Finding your architect job through Randstad provides important advantages such as:
- a wide variety of training and development opportunities
- an experienced contact person to provide help if needed
- a range of opportunities in your area
- get paid on a monthly basis
- temporary and permanent contracts
Want a permanent contract? A temporary job as an architect is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent job. Every year, thousands of people earn a permanent contract with great employers thanks to a temporary job found through Randstad. What's more, many companies recruit their permanent employees through Randstad too!
education and skills
Some of the academic qualifications for architects include:
- 12 standard: to reach the level of education needed to become an architect, you need to achieve 12-standard education in a science stream, which allows you to move on to higher education.
- bachelor's degree: to become an architect in India, you need a bachelor's degree in architecture. This typically takes five years to complete and covers a wide range of subjects, including design, construction, engineering, and environmental science.
- registration: once qualified, you register with the Council of Architects. This is a legal requirement for architects in India.
skills and competencies
Some of the qualities of an architect include:
- design: you have strong design skills that enable you to create innovative and functional building designs. You can visualise your ideas and communicate them effectively through your drawings and models.
- technical knowledge: you have a strong understanding of building materials, construction techniques, and engineering principles. This knowledge is necessary to fulfil your role effectively.
- communication: architecture is often a collaborative field. As a result, your ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of people, including clients, contractors, and engineers, is invaluable.
- project management: you are responsible for managing the construction process of your projects from start to finish. You use your project management skills to coordinate all the stakeholders involved in the project.
FAQs about working as an architect
Here are some common questions about working as an architect:
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is architecture a high-paying job in India?
Architecture is a very high-paying profession in India. The average pay for an architect in India is around ₹21,50,000, with the potential to earn as much as ₹35,00,000. The average salary in India across all professions is roughly ₹3,97,500, meaning architects in the country have the potential to earn almost ten times the national average.
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do architects have a future in India?
India has invested a great deal in growth and infrastructure. This fact, combined with the high rate of pay compared to the national average, makes a future as an architect in the country very promising.
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is it hard to become an architect in India?
Becoming an architect in India requires at least a bachelor's degree in Architecture, which usually takes five years to complete. You also need to be registered with the Council of Architects.
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is architecture full of maths?
Maths is essential in architecture. Aptitude in geometry, algebra, and trigonometry is necessary to do the job.
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how do I apply for an architect vacancy?
Applying for an architect job is easy: create a Randstad profile and search our job offers for vacancies in your area. Then simply send us your CV and cover letter. Need help with your application? Check out all our job search tips here!
