Job profile
Architect (m/f/d)
Architect: Salary, opportunities, training and co.
Architects take care of the holistic planning and supervision of a construction project, both in private residential projects and in urban development or commercial real estate. They work in architectural firms, in public offices or as freelance architects. Their tasks cover a wide range of topics, such as the technical, economic and aesthetic planning of buildings. This applies not only to new construction projects, but also to the renovation and redesign of older or dilapidated houses and buildings.
Architects work in a wide range of fields, which they deal with to varying degrees depending on their specialization. These include, for example, project management and the coordination of all parties involved, the planning phase including all approvals, budgeting and implementation planning, as well as construction management and cost control. Due to this multitude of tasks, different departments in architectural offices often deal with different specializations. Most architects specialize in building construction, which refers to all construction projects above ground.
What is an architect anyway, how do you gain a foothold in this professional field and what does an architect earn? We address these and many other questions in this job profile.
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Architects' salary: a comprehensive overview
The average salary of an architect in Germany is € 68,000 gross per year - according to the German Federal Chamber of Architects in 2022. However, many different factors play an important role in the level of an architect's salary, such as: professional experience, highest level of education and the size, type and location of the workplace. 33% of those surveyed are self-employed, where the average salary for architects is €75,000.
Representatives of this profession earn the least in planning and architectural offices, while the highest salaries are paid in the public sector.
Generally speaking, architects' earnings can be described as above average and remain stable, as well-trained specialists are in high demand. Compared to other European countries, architects in Germany earn the most on average.
Starting salary as an architect: what newcomers can expect in Germany
Salary development with experience: Senior Architect salary
The diverse architectural tasks and activities in detail
- Planning from design to detailed planning: The architect creates the overall design for the building and draws implementation plans and details for connections or wall structures.
- Advice and clarification: As an architect, you provide information on building law issues, point out important circumstances and advise on cost issues, for example (clarify client wishes and service requirements, carry out site analysis and feasibility studies).
- Coordination with stakeholders: The architect coordinates with other stakeholders, e.g. the building authority, and represents the interests of those responsible for the construction and is the contact person for everyone involved in the construction.
- Construction supervision and quality control: Depending on the assignment, the construction phase must be monitored and continuous cost and quality controls must be carried out (land use planning, development planning, monument protection).
- Project acquisition: (Self-employed) architects take part in tenders and apply for construction projects. At Hays, however, we are happy to support you with project acquisition
The four disciplines of architecture: from structural to civil engineering
Basically, the tasks of an architect also differ according to the field in which they specialize. The four fields of architecture are divided into structural engineering, interior design, landscape architecture and urban planning.
- Building construction: Building construction architects design and plan buildings such as residential buildings, office buildings, schools and hospitals. They take into account aspects such as functionality, aesthetics and sustainability.
- Interior design: Interior designers come into their own when designing interiors. They consider furniture, lighting, colors and materials to create harmonious and functional spaces.
- Landscape architecture: Landscape architects design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, squares and green spaces. In doing so, they take ecological, aesthetic and social aspects into account in order to create attractive and sustainable landscapes.
- Urban planning: Urban planners are responsible for the spatial development of cities and municipalities. They have to take transport planning, infrastructure, residential areas and public spaces into account.
Architecture specialization Interior Architecture:
Design of interiors
In contrast to the other disciplines, interior designers take care of the design of interior spaces. They usually work very closely with the future occupants of these spaces. The requirements and skills needed are very similar to those of an architect, but it is advisable to choose the specific degree course in interior design for a career as an interior designer.
As an interior designer, you combine aesthetics, functionality and technical aspects to create inspiring and harmonious spaces. Here are some important features:
- Holistic approach: In interior design, you consider the room as a whole. You consider not only the furniture and decoration, but also the structure, lighting, acoustics and atmosphere. The aim is to design a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
- Individuality: Every room and every client is unique. Interior designers adapt their designs to the specific needs, tastes and personality of the client. Tailor-made solutions are created that bring the room to life.
- Knowledge of materials: Interior designers need to be familiar with a variety of materials, be it wood, metal, textiles or plastics. The choice of the right materials influences the durability, aesthetics and functionality of the room.
- Space planning: They analyze the space to find the best room layout. They take into account traffic flows, usage zones and the optimal placement of furniture and furnishings.
- Color and lighting design: The choice of colors and the right lighting are decisive for the mood of a room. Interior designers know how to combine colors harmoniously and use light effectively.
Interior designer is also a protected profession and may only be used after membership of the Chamber of Architects.
How do you become an architect?
- Training, studies & career path
As a prospective architect, you will design people's living space and spatial environment. Your task is to design, plan and implement buildings. This is not only about creativity and aesthetics, but also about analytical thinking, constructive solutions and economic action - this knowledge must be learned.
To become an architect, it is therefore necessary to study architecture. This course usually lasts eight semesters and provides students with the necessary specialist knowledge in the areas of design, construction, building law and construction management. During my studies, I learn how to design buildings, produce technical drawings and manage construction projects.
After graduating, the path to becoming an architect leads further into practice: architectural firms or construction companies are ideal for gaining initial practical experience. Here, prospective architects can deepen their skills and specialize in certain fields.
In order to officially call yourself an architect, you must be registered with the Chamber of Architects in your federal state. This requires approximately four years of study and two years of professional experience. Only then can you apply for admission to the chamber.
Architect training: The first step into architecture
Studying architecture: The academic career
In Germany, a degree in architecture and the corresponding official degree are a prerequisite for officially being allowed to call oneself an "architect". It is offered at numerous universities and universities of applied sciences and can be completed with either a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree in architecture. The majority of architecture students complete their studies with a Master's degree.
In order to be officially accepted into the chamber, it is necessary to gain two years of professional experience after graduation. After completing these two years, you can apply to become a full member of the Chamber. However, many Bachelor's and Master's graduates decide against becoming an official member: They are therefore not allowed to officially call themselves an "architect".
Basically, you can choose between different fields of study, with most students opting for the general architecture course. However, prospective interior designers can also study interior design (interior design, spatial strategy) directly in order to receive an excellent education in their specialist field.
Further training as an architect: specialization and in-depth study
As an architect, it is important - as in most jobs - to undergo regular further training in order to keep up to date with the latest technology. Over 60% of architects spend between 10 and 40 hours a year on further training.
There are numerous offers for this throughout Germany, most of which can be searched and found via the platform of the Chamber of Architects.
Further training for architects can cover a wide variety of areas. These include, for example: Negotiation training, project management, further training on building or harmful substances, fire protection, legal principles and much more.
Architects who have completed their studies with a Bachelor's degree can also consider completing a further Master's degree in order to continue their education.
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Creative and technical skills of an architect
- Creativity and aesthetic understanding: An architect must be able to create innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs. This requires a deep understanding of proportions, spatial design and aesthetic principles.
- Technical knowledge: Architects must be familiar with building techniques, materials and construction methods. This includes knowledge of structural design, building technology and sustainability.
- CAD software and drawing skills: The ability to create technical drawings is essential. Architects use computer-aided design (CAD) software to visualize their ideas and create precise plans.
- Project management:Architects often work on complex projects with many stakeholders. Good project management is therefore crucial. This includes time management, budgeting and communication skills.
- Knowledge of building law and regulations: Architects need to know the applicable building regulations and standards to ensure that their designs comply with legal requirements.
- Communication skills: In order to communicate effectively with clients, contractors, engineers and other professionals, architects must also demonstrate strength in this area. This includes presenting ideas, negotiating contracts and solving problems.
- Analytical thinking: Processing complex information, finding creative solutions to design problems and an analytical approach are essential.
- Teamwork: Architects rarely work alone. The ability to collaborate with other professionals, such as interior designers, landscape architects and building contractors, is of great importance.
- Passion for architecture: Ultimately, architects should have a deep passion for architecture and design. This passion drives you to constantly learn and develop.
- Creativity and aesthetic understanding: An architect must be able to create innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs. This requires a deep understanding of proportions, spatial design and aesthetic principles.
- Technical knowledge: Architects must be familiar with building techniques, materials and construction methods. This includes knowledge of structural design, building technology and sustainability.
- CAD software and drawing skills: The ability to create technical drawings is essential. Architects use computer-aided design (CAD) software to visualize their ideas and create precise plans.
- Project management:Architects often work on complex projects with many stakeholders. Good project management is therefore crucial. This includes time management, budgeting and communication skills.
- Knowledge of building law and regulations: Architects need to know the applicable building regulations and standards to ensure that their designs comply with legal requirements.
- Communication skills: In order to communicate effectively with clients, contractors, engineers and other professionals, architects must also demonstrate strength in this area. This includes presenting ideas, negotiating contracts and solving problems.
- Analytical thinking: Processing complex information, finding creative solutions to design problems and an analytical approach are essential.
- Teamwork: Architects rarely work alone. The ability to collaborate with other professionals, such as interior designers, landscape architects and building contractors, is of great importance.
- Passion for architecture: Ultimately, female architects should have a deep passion for architecture and design. This passion drives you to constantly learn and develop.
Architects careers:
Your chances on the job market
Job alternatives for architects
In addition to the traditional career as an architect - for example in an architectural firm - there are now also alternative career opportunities. Over the past few decades, the gaming industry has given rise to the profession of game designer, which is often not dissimilar to that of an architect. The video game industry is now larger than the film or music industry and therefore offers good career opportunities. The architecture of the fictional world plays a major role in video games - so IT-savvy architects can also see a future in this profession.
Working in monument conservation, as an architectural photographer or the theoretical study of architecture could also represent alternative job prospects for trained architects.
Career opportunities as an architect remain stable
Well-trained architects are in high demand on the job market, not least because of the shortage of skilled workers. Their chances of a secure job and an above-average salary are good in the industry. Satisfaction among members of the Chamber of Architects is also high: 74% of those surveyed would choose a career as an architect again.
The Federal Employment Agency still sees engineering professions such as architecture as being on a growth trajectory. In 2022, the number of architects subject to social insurance contributions rose by 3.7% - above average compared to other engineering professions. Nevertheless, the shortage of skilled workers is also noticeable in the construction industry. As in many other areas, recruitment difficulties were evident there.
The order situation for architects is characterized by great uncertainty. Nevertheless, the business climate in this sector remains positive and a career as an architect is still recommended.
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FAQ
An architect is an expert in the design, planning and construction of buildings and other structures. Architects not only design aesthetically pleasing buildings, but also consider aspects such as functionality, sustainability, safety and user comfort. They work closely with clients, engineers and other professionals to see projects through from concept to completion.
An architect is an expert in the design, planning and construction of buildings and other structures. Architects not only design aesthetically pleasing buildings, but also consider aspects such as functionality, sustainability, safety and user comfort. They work closely with clients, engineers and other professionals to see projects through from concept to completion.
The average salary of an architect in Germany is €68,000 gross per year. Self-employed architects generally earn more and reach an average salary of €75,000. The starting salary for junior architects with a Master's degree is around €38,400.
To officially call yourself an architect, you must have a degree in architecture (Bachelor's or Master's) and two years of professional experience. Only then is it possible to join the Chamber of Architects of a German federal state.
It usually takes around 5 years to study architecture (Bachelor's and Master's). This is followed by at least 2 years of practical experience and preparation for the architectural examination. In total, it can therefore take several years to become a fully qualified architect.
