by "Architecture is the learned game, correct & magnificent, of forms assembled in the light."
Writing a well-crafted architect's resume requires throughout understanding of the job market and knowledge of what employers look for in a potential candidate.
This article is your guide on how to create an effective architecture resume that will make you stand apart from the rest and attract potential employers.
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Architecture resume examples
Junior architect's resume example
Senior architect's resume example
Tony K. Bramble
860-276-6862 | tony-bramble@email.com | Southington, CTProfession Summary
Experienced architect with 8 years of proven success in delivering innovative and visually striking architectural designs. Adept at collaborating with diverse teams to bring projects from concept to completion within budget and deadlines. Seeking opportunities to contribute creativity and technical expertise to a forward-thinking architectural firm.
Core Qualifications
- Project Planning and Management
- Construction Standards and Rules
- Conceptual Design
- Cost Estimation
- CAD Software
- BIM Modeling
Employment History
Architect | Skyline Designs | Southington, CT (August 2019 – Present)
- Responsible for developing the conceptual design and detailed drawings for a variety of projects.
- Manage the project planning process from start to finish.
- Collaborate with engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure the successful completion of projects.
Draftsman | Perspective Studios | Southington, CT (December 2017 – July 2019)
- Created detailed drawings with CAD software and assisted in coordinating building codes.
- Developed accurate cost estimates for materials, labor, and other expenses.
- Performed quality assurance checks on construction documents and provided support for project managers.
Education
- Bachelor's of Architecture | University of Connecticut | 2019 | GPA 3.7
Certifications & Awards
- LEED Accredited Professional (2020)
- Member of the American Institute of Architects (2020)
- ABC Award for Outstanding Project Design (2019)
Mid-level architect's resume example
Contact information
When including personal and contact details in an architecture resume pay attention to list them without typos. This will guarantee that hiring managers can easily contact you for further conversations regarding the job opportunity.
Ensure that you provide your full name, current address, email address, phone number, city, or state you are looking for a job, and any other relevant information that may be applicable.
Resume summary
A great resume summary for an architecture resume should highlight the most notable experience and skills that make the candidate distinguish oneself from their peers. This section should provide a brief overview of the type of work you are looking to pursue.
Example 1:
Experienced Architect with 8+ years of professional experience in residential, commercial, and industrial design. Skilled in developing creative solutions that meet client expectations while abiding by local statutes and ordinances. Proven ability to lead design teams and manage projects from concept to completion.
Example 2:
Experienced architecture professional with 8+ years of experience in designing and constructing residential, commercial, and public buildings. Deep understanding of building regulations and codes, with excellent project management skills and knowledge of AutoCAD. Proven record of successfully completing projects within budget and on time.
Here are 3 tips for writing an architect's resume summary:
- Showcase your technical skills. Your summary should emphasize any technical proficiencies pertinent to the position. You may possess the capability to design buildings using CAD software or you may be aware of building codes and regulations.
- Emphasize your professional experience. Ensure that you list any past roles you have held that illustrate your experience in the field. Include details such as the types of projects you have completed and how you contributed to their successful completion.
- Highlight your personality traits. When possible, incorporate qualities such as your drive for innovation or communications skills to help employers get a perspective of what it would be like to work with you.
Work experience
When crafting a resume for architectural roles, arranging your professional background plays an essential role in how your application is perceived. It allows potential employers to get an overview of your architect's qualifications and work history.
The most effective way to list your work experience is in chronological order. This will allow recruiters to quickly assess your career path.
Begin with your most recent or current job and move backward. For each entry, state the name of the employer, the title you held, the dates you worked there, and a brief list of key job duties and accomplishments.
For example:
Senior Architect at VisionCraft Architects | Woodbury, NJ (2018 - present)
- Create custom home designs for clients.
- Manage a team of 5 junior architects, and supervise projects.
- Lead weekly meetings with team members to ensure progress on projects.
- Produced renderings and drawings, and coordinated plans with contractors.
Junior Architect at VisionCraft Architects | Woodbury, NJ (2015 - 2018)
- Developed proposals for 100+ commercial projects.
- Communicated with contractors and vendors to stay on track with deadlines.
- Updated blueprints using AutoCAD software according to specifications.
- Collaborated with architects to develop 3D models for building designs.
By including detailed experience information in your architecture resume you will help HR can gain insight into your qualifications and aptitudes. These will help potential employers gain a clearer understanding of your skillset and qualifications which is essential for an architecture job application.
Education
The educational information on your architectural resume is the key highlight of your credentials. Your academic history should also be listed in chronological order.
Start with the latest degree or program completed and work your way backward. For each listing, mention the name of the institution that issued the credentials, the years studied, and other relevant facts, such as awards, GPA, and selected coursework.
Enumerate any other educational accomplishments that could be pertinent to your work as an architect. This could include awards or honors, or extracurriculars activities that have helped further develop your capabilities.
Education on an architecture resume example:
Masters of Architecture | University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (2018 - 2020)
- Graduated top 5% of the class
- Master's thesis on "Trends of Environmental Technology in Residential Structures"
- Nominee for the Progressive Architecture Award (2019)
Bachelor of Arts in Architecture | Ohio State University, Columbus (2012 - 2016)
- Magna cum Laude, 3.67 GPA
- Outstanding Architecture Student of the Year (2015); Winner of the Berkeley Essay Prize Competition (2016)
- Participant of the Green Tower Hong Kong Competition for Multifunctional Skyscraper
Having a well-organized education section in your resume can ensure that you clearly present your expertise. It shows potential employers that you are well-educated and have the necessary knowledge for the job.
Licenses and certificates
All 50 states and the District of Columbia require architect professionals to earn licensure before they can begin practicing.
Licenses are usually obtained through an accredited institution. Also, obtaining certifications in architecture can be a great way to demonstrate an individual's commitment.
There are various options to choose from. Here are some examples.
| License Name | Issuing Organization | Short Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural License (RA) | State Licensing Boards | Allows legal practice of architecture. Titles vary by state (e.g., RA, LA). | Legal authority to practice architecture. Ability to stamp and sign architectural drawings. |
| LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) | U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) | Recognizes expertise in sustainable design. | Enhances professional credibility in green building. |
| NCARB Certificate | National Council of Architectural Registration | Facilitates reciprocity in obtaining licenses across multiple states. | Streamlined licensure process in participating states. Mobility to practice architecture in different states. |
| Interior Design License | State Licensing Boards | Allows legal practice of interior design within the state. | Ability to offer specialized interior design services. |
| Certified Construction Specifier (CCS) | Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) | Demonstrates expertise in specifying construction materials and methods. | Recognition of expertise in creating accurate and detailed construction specifications. Enhanced professional standing in specifying construction projects. |
| Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) | Autodesk | Certification for proficiency in Autodesk design and drafting software, such as AutoCAD. | Demonstrates proficiency in widely used design and drafting tools. Enhances competitiveness in the job market. |
| Revit Architecture Certification | Autodesk | Certification for professionals proficient in Revit Architecture, a key software for Building Information Modeling (BIM). | Demonstrates expertise in BIM and Revit Architecture. Valuable for collaborative and integrated design processes. |
| Certified Passive House Designer (CPHD) | Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) | Certification for architects interested in energy-efficient and passive design principles. | Demonstrates expertise in energy-efficient and passive design. Valuable in sustainable and green building projects. |
| Healthcare Design Certified (CHD) | American Academy of Healthcare Interior Designers (AAHID) | Certification for architects specializing in healthcare design. | Demonstrates expertise in designing spaces for healthcare environments. Valuable for healthcare design projects. |
| Project Management Professional (PMP) | Project Management Institute (PMI) | Certification is beneficial for architects involved in project management aspects of their work. | Valuable for architects managing complex projects. |
With so many certifications available, there are plenty of options for any architect looking to advance their career and stay competitive in the industry. Certificates can be obtained through online courses or through professional organizations.
Having licenses listed on the architecture resume indicates that you have a comprehensive understanding of industry developments. They show that an architect is qualified to practice architecture.
Architect's skills
"A doctor can bury his mistakes, but an architect can only advise his clients to plant vines."
Apart from sharing the details of your academic journey, it is important to talk about your practical skillset on your architect's resume. Doing so can help you outshine the competition, describe your capabilities, and showcase how you can be an asset to a company.
Both soft and hard skills need to be added since the job requires not only technical proficiencies but also abilities to work with other people.
Soft skills:
- The ability to effectively communicate ideas, instructions, and thoughts.
- Interacting efficiently with team personnel, clients, and other stakeholders.
- Being able to manage tasks efficiently and effectively.
- Demonstrating leadership skills to drive the team to success.
- The capacity to identify problems and utilize creative solutions.
- The ability to manage a project from beginning to end.
Hard skills for an architect resume:
- Familiarity with the software used in architecture, drafting, modeling, etc.
- Knowing how to plan projects within budget and timeframe constraints.
- Understanding of architectural principles, regulations, and laws.
- Knowledge of structural analysis methods used for designing buildings and structures.
- Understanding of building codes and regulations used in the construction industry.
The skills should be well-organized and relevant to the position you are applying for. Utilize use specific terminology related to the job to demonstrate your expertise in the field.
Additional information
Appending relevant supplementary facts to your architecture resume will help make your application special.
| Section | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Hobbies | Sharing hobbies on the resume shows that the candidate has diverse interests. It might also suggest that the job seeker has certain capabilities that could prove beneficial in the workplace. | If a candidate includes "woodworking" as a hobby, it could show |
| their diverse skillset, creativity, and attention to detail. | ||
| Languages | Including language proficiency on an architectural resume can reveal valuable skills. | If a candidate is fluent in Spanish or French and their potential employer has international clients or partners who speak those languages, it would make them a great asset for the company. |
| Awards | Talking about accolades associated with architecture can help demonstrate that the individual is knowledgeable and experienced in their field. | If a candidate received a prestigious award for their work on a specific project or design, HR may consider the accomplishment when making their decision. |
| Internships | Internships provide valuable experience in architecture that can help differentiate candidates from others applying for the same entry-level job. | If the applicant had interned at a well-known firm, it will show that they already acquired experience working in the industry. |
| References | Incorporating references on an architect's resume indicates that other professionals are ready to vouch for this individual's accomplishments. This is beneficial for recruiters as it gives them an idea of what other professionals think about this person's work. | These recommendation letters can be provided by a former colleague, supervisor, or client. |
| Professional conferences | Attending conferences allows architects to network with other professionals and build relationships that could lead to future opportunities. | The applicant may list conferences like The American Institute of Architects Annual Conference, International Design Conference, and others. |
You are not limited only to the mentioned above sections. You may choose to share any details that you feel will increase your chances of getting hired: volunteer experience, publications, research projects, and more.
List anything that makes you special!
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Build My ResumeArchitect's portfolio for resume
"Architecture should speak of its time and place, but yearn for timelessness."
Sharing a portfolio on your resume is important for proving that you're qualified. It demonstrates that you have the skills and experience needed to take on the job. A portfolio should include your best work, showcasing the design process and results.
Include photos of the finished product, sketches, drawings, materials used, and other relevant facts. Ensure that you use high-quality images and professional language.
A strong portfolio should demonstrate your creativity and technical abilities. If you don't have it composed yet, look at the websites below where you can present your work.
Websites to post portfolio:
- Behance is a widely used platform for creative professionals, including architects. It allows users to create an online portfolio, showcase projects, and connect with a global creative community.
- Architizer is a website specifically designed for architects. It enables users to create a profile, share work, and explore a curated collection of architecture projects from around the world.
- LinkedIn is a professional networking platform where anyone can create a profile, highlight their skills and experience, and share project samples. It's a valuable tool for networking with professionals in various fields.
- Cargo is a website builder designed for creatives, including architects. It offers customizable templates to create visually appealing portfolios to showcase architectural projects.
- Issuu is a digital publishing platform that architects can use to create and share online portfolios. It allows for the creation of interactive and visually engaging presentations.
- Adobe Portfolio is a part of Adobe's Creative Cloud suite. Architects can use it to create a personalized portfolio website with easy integration of Adobe tools.
- Wix is a website creator that architects can use to build customized portfolios. It offers a range of templates and features for designing an interactive and professional portfolio site.
- Squarespace is another popular website builder known for its elegant and responsive templates. Architects can use it to organize a visually appealing online portfolio.
When selecting a platform, consider factors such as customization options, ease of use, and the ability to showcase your work effectively. Additionally, having a personal website with a custom domain can provide a professional touch to an architect's online presence.
Make sure to include the link to your architect's portfolio in your resume or cover letter. This gives potential employers easy access to view your work and helps them gain insight into what type of professional you are.
Architect's cover letter
A well-composed cover letter can be an excellent way to introduce yourself to a potential employer. Here are some tips to help you write the best cover letter possible when submitting for an architecture role.
- Tailor the letter to the specific job. Indicate the company by name and include details about your qualifications that are relevant to the job you're applying for. Show your enthusiasm for the job and explain why you want to work there.
- Remain concise. Cover letters should be no more than one page long. Focus on highlighting the most important information and avoid long-winded sentences or paragraphs.
- Use a professional tone. Do not use slang, jokes, or overly casual language as this can come off as unprofessional or too informal for a job application.
- Conclude with a call to action. Finish in a way that motivates potential employers to reach out to you about the position. This could include telling them how they can get in touch with you or provide a link to an online portfolio of your work.
- Carefully proofread before handing it in. Make sure there are no spelling or grammar errors, as these may become red flags for some organizations. It's also important to double-check that all facts and figures in your letter are accurate before sending it in.
To give you a better idea, look at the architecture cover letter examples provided below. One of them is a well-crafted document, while the other needs significant improvements.
Good example:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing in response to your job opening for an architecture position at your firm. I possess a degree in Architecture alongside four years of expertise in the field. I am confident that I have the qualifications necessary for this role.
My portfolio includes creating residential dwellings, commercial structures, and public areas. I have also worked with many of the latest technologies, such as 3D printing and virtual reality. My goal is always to create beautiful, functional spaces that meet the needs of my clients.
Besides my technical aptitude, I am competent at handling projects and directing teams. I am highly organized and capable of maintaining focus even in high-pressure situations. And with my strong communication skills, I am confident I can effectively collaborate with colleagues and clients alike.
I am confident that my skills and qualifications match the requirements for this job. I would love to discuss my qualifications further during an interview. Please let me know if you would like to arrange a time for us to meet. Appreciate your attention to this matter.
Best regards, [Name]
This example of a cover letter is good because it is informative, tailored precisely to the job applied, and has an overall professional demeanor. Additionally, it ends with a call to action that encourages further contact from potential employers.
Bad example:
Hi there,
I noticed the advertisement for an architecture role at your business on Monster. I think I'd be great at this job because of my educational background in Architecture. I did not graduate and never worked in the field, though. My only work experience is being a Walmart Cashier since my sophomore year. This will surely help me get the job done.
Best, [Name]
This is a bad example of a cover letter because it does not evaluate how the candidate's skills will be applied to the specific job. This letter contains irrelevant information, does not present the applicant in the best way, and lacks a call to action at the end.
In addition, the applicant seems to be lacking the necessary qualifications for the job and does not indicate how they would like to improve their knowledge in the field.
Cover letter for an entry-level architecture job:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am writing to express my interest in the Junior Architect position at your company. I believe my skills and qualifications make me an ideal candidate.
Although I possess no previous work experience as an Architect, my studies in the field have prepared me well to excel in this type of role. My Bachelor's degree in Architecture has provided me with a strong theoretical understanding of the profession, as well as practical knowledge of design, planning, and construction.
I am confident that I could bring enthusiasm and dedication to any project. I possess excellent communication and problem-solving skills, which allow me to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients. Moreover, I am a creative thinker who is able to generate innovative solutions to challenging problems.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my application further with you and how I could contribute positively to your organization. Please find attached my resume and portfolio for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Thank you for taking the time to read my cover letter and review my application.
Sincerely, [Name]
Advice on writing an architecture cover letter with no experience
Writing a great cover letter can be challenging if you have no prior hands-on experience in architecture.
Follow these suggestions to help you navigate the process:
- Highlight your educational qualifications. Describe yourself and your academic achievements, such as courses taken or any research projects completed.
- Demonstrate skills relevant to the role. Showcase qualities such as collaboration, communication, creativity, and problem-solving capabilities through examples from your studies or other activities such as volunteering or extracurricular pursuits.
- Make sure it is adjusted to the specific job. Ensure that your cover letter is tailored specifically for the role you're applying for by demonstrating how your skills make you an ideal candidate for the position.
Proofread everything
"The difference between good and bad architecture is the time you spend on it."
Examining your application materials for errors is essential when applying for any job. This shows the employer your professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence.
To ensure your documents are error-free, follow the suggestions:
- Read your architecture resume out loud. This can help you catch typos, wrong words, and inconsistencies in wording.
- Get a second opinion. Ask a friend or family member to read your documents and provide feedback.
- Use online tools. Grammar checkers can help identify errors and suggest improvements.
- Avoid cliches. Originality and creativity are important for architects, so make sure your resume stands out from the crowd.
- Double-check everything. Examine your documents to ensure all the details are correct before submitting them.
Verifying the accuracy of your resume and cover letter helps demonstrate your meticulousness and professionalism — all of which can help you land a job.
Conclusion
Whether you are a fresh graduate, an experienced architect, or somewhere in between, constructing a remarkable resume can help you gain a competitive advantage.
This article provides in-depth instructions for creating an outstanding architect's resume. To make the writing process easier, using the online resume builder is highly recommended which can be used to generate professional resumes in no time.
Use this guide and the provided architect's resume examples to make your own impressive resume now!
