How To Write an Architect Resume
As an architect, your unique blend of design prowess, technical acumen, and project management skills deserves a resume that showcases your expertise. We’ll delve into some tips and tricks for crafting a resume that captures your architectural vision and communicates your qualifications effectively to potential employers. Whether you’re a seasoned architect or just embarking on your architectural career, we will guide you through architecting a compelling and job-winning resume.
1. Write a dynamic profile summarizing your qualifications
You only have a narrow window to make a strong first impression on the hiring manager. Because of the sheer volume of applicants, they often won’t have the time to read through every document thoroughly. To grab the hiring manager’s attention, create a strong professional summary at the top of your resume, which communicates the key strengths that the organization is looking for. Consider drawing attention to your expertise in building codes, software literacy, and ability to perform under pressure.
Senior-Level Profile Example
Versatile and creative architect with over 15 years of experience designing commercial and residential buildings in a variety of sizes and styles. Record of unique and sustainable design that exceeds LEED standards.
Entry-Level Profile Example
Self-motivated, creative Architect with two years’ experience in commercial construction projects. Licensed and highly familiar with industry-leading software, building codes, and best practices. Thrives under pressure with multiple project priorities. Eager to grow while collaborating with team and higher-level decision-makers.
2. Add a detailed professional experience section
Once you’ve piqued their interest with your summary, you can continue to impress them with notable work accomplishments. To quantify your contributions to your work, do your best to attach relevant numbers or percentages to those bullet points. Answer questions such as how many clients you served, how much money you saved the company, and the final design’s overall value. This can help your contributions to feel impactful and concrete.
It’s often a good idea to also showcase your ability to work on a team. Many architect jobs require the ability to work as part of a team. Designs often start by working with clients to determine their needs. You also may work with the construction team, surveyors, and planning officials. On top of that, internal teams at many architecture firms work together to find clients, produce blueprints, and present plans.
Senior-Level Profile Example
Architect, IGM Architects, New York, NY
September 2010 – Present
- Key architect at a high-end international architecture and engineering firm.
- Design and develop 2 -3 multi-million dollar projects through all phases of work each year.
- Create bid-winning designs at 10-15% less cost than competitor bids
- Attend regular on-site meetings to ensure quality control on each project
Entry-Level Profile Example
Junior Architect, Ingersoll, Pierce & Partners Architects, South Houston, TX
January 2019 – Present
- Assisting with production of construction documents and documenting every design phase from schematic design to project closeout
- Coordinating with team members and project managers to maintain project progress
- Participating in the inspection of building sites to determine environmental impact and feasibility for construction
- Delivering projects on time and at least 10% under budget
- Accepting increasing levels of responsibility with budgeting and supervisory roles
3. Include your education and certifications
Your education is important when applying for a job as an architect, especially if you’re just starting out. Employers will want to know that you have a Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree, so clearly state the name of your degree and where you went to school.
Your education section can also highlight skills and experiences the company needs. Look at the position’s requirements and consider highlighting any projects, coursework, or extracurricular activities that match. For example, if the firm is looking for someone with high levels of computer-aided design (CAD) skills, consider mentioning your advanced CAD classes.
Also, include any relevant licenses or certifications. Depending on your specialty, many specific certifications may be required, but having any extra certifications could help your resume stand out.
Some of the most common and in-demand certifications for architects are:
- Certified Professional Autodesk Revit Architecture 2012: This certification proves you have mastered using Autodesk Revit, a software tool for creating 3D models of buildings and structures. It is issued by Autodesk, Inc. and requires passing a performance-based exam.
- Certified System Architect (CSA): This demonstrates you have the skills and knowledge to design and implement business applications using Pega, a platform for digital transformation. It is issued by Pega and requires passing an online exam.
- LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED): This shows your proficiency in designing and constructing buildings that meet the highest standards of sustainability and environmental performance. It is issued by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI) and requires passing a two-part exam.
- Project Management Professional (PMP): This globally recognized certification demonstrates you have the skills and knowledge to manage complex projects from start to finish. It can increase your earning potential and career opportunities. To obtain this certification, you must meet certain education and experience requirements and pass a multiple-choice exam.
- The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF): This certification validates your ability to use a comprehensive methodology for developing and managing enterprise architectures. It is issued by The Open Group and requires passing a two-level exam.
These are just some examples of the best architect certifications in 2023. You can find more information about these and other certifications on the respective organizations’ websites.
Education
Template:
[Degree Name]
[School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
Example:
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies
New York University, New York, NY, September 1999 – June 2003
Certifications
Template:
[Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]
Examples:
LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
4. List pertinent key skills
Emphasizing key skills is critical for getting noticed by applicant tracking systems (ATS). Companies use ATS to scan and evaluate each resume and flag any that show a high degree of potential to be successful in the position. The system scores resumes based on the number of keywords and phrases it has that match the job requirements and forwards these to hiring managers. This means the more key skill words you include, the greater your chance of being invited for an interview.
| Key Skills and Proficiencies | |
|---|---|
| Architectural rendering | Architectural specifications |
| Budget planning | Building codes |
| Building Information Modeling (BIM) software | CAD software |
| Calculations | Civil engineering |
| Collaboration | Commercial architecture |
| Compliance | Creative thinking |
| LEED | Model making |
| New construction | Presentation skills |
| Problem-solving | Project management |
| Renovation | Residential architecture |
| Technical drawing | Time management |
How To Pick The Best Architect Resume Template
There is no definitive answer to which resume template is the best for an architecture job, as different templates may suit different situations and preferences. However, here are some general guidelines to help you:
- Pick a template that matches the style and tone of the architecture firm or company you are applying to. For example, if the firm is known for its modern and minimalist designs, use a template that reflects that aesthetic. Conversely, if the firm is more traditional and conservative, use a more formal and classic template.
- Select a template that is easy to read and navigate, with clear headings, bullet points, and plenty of white space. Use a template with a simple font, color scheme, and layout. Avoid using templates that are too cluttered, flashy, or distracting.
- Choose a template compatible with the application method and format. For example, if you are applying online, use a template that is in PDF format, as it preserves the formatting and design of your resume.
Architect Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples
Years of Experience
- Entry-level
- Mid-career
- Senior-level
Angelina Beauchard
(713) 123-0000
[email protected]
227 W Main Street, Houston, TX 77003
Profile
Self-motivated, creative Architect with two years’ experience in commercial construction projects. Licensed and highly familiar with industry-leading software, building codes, and best practices. Thrives under pressure with multiple project priorities. Eager to grow while collaborating with team and higher-level decision-makers.
Key Skills
- Strong verbal and written communications skills
- AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite & MS Office
- Multitasking
- Teamwork
- Detail-oriented
Education
Bachelor of Architecture
University of Houston, Houston, TX, September 2013 – December 2018
Architecture Masterprize (AMP) Student Award Winner – 2017
Professional Experience
Junior Architect, Ingersoll, Pierce & Partners Architects, South Houston, TX
January 2019 – Present
- Assisting with production of construction documents and documenting every design phase from schematic design to project closeout
- Coordinating with team members and project managers to maintain project progress
- Participating in the inspection of building sites to determine environmental impact and feasibility for construction
- Delivering projects on time and at least 10% under budget
- Accepting increasing levels of responsibility with budgeting and supervisory roles
Project Summer Intern, Gowrie Architects, Houston, TX
May 2018 – August 2018
- Prepared blueprints with AutoCAD and Revit
- Produced reports, presentations, and documents with Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office
- Collaborated with senior leader to develop job bids for new projects
- Communicated with five contractors and vendors to incorporate input in project designs
- Received three commendations from contractors for timeliness and excellence of design
Credentials
- Architecture License, Texas Board of Architectural Examiners
- Active Member, Texas Society of Architects
Janine Williams
(123) 456-7890
[email protected]
123 Address Street, Springfield, IL 06543
Profile
Self-driven, licensed architect with 6+ years of experience, strong time management skills and the organizational ability to manage multiple projects concurrently. Well-developed understanding of design practices and applications of design practice theories and methods. Experience working with various architectural software programs, including AutoCAD, Maya and SketchUp.
Professional Experience
Registered Architect, AWS Design Studio, Springfield, IL
July 2016 – Present
- Leads project teams through all project phases including conceptual design, design development and construction documents
- Works on commercial and industrial projects valued from $10 to $50 million
- Assimilates sustainable designs into over 15 commercial and industrial projects per year
- Produces bid-winning designs at approximately 15% less cost than competitors
Intern Architect, JBR Architects, Springfield, IL
June 2014 – June 2016
- Designed 2D drawings of floor plans and sections using AutoCAD Architecture
- Assisted Project Managers with cost estimates and reports
- Created 3D renderings using BIM 360 to display visualizations for marketing purposes
Education
Bachelor of Architecture
The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, September 2010 – May 2014
Key Skills
- Ability to hand draft, sketch and create drawings using various architectural software programs
- Superb creativity and problem-solving abilities
- Experienced in leadership roles and mentoring junior staff
- Excellent presentation skills and customer relations
Certifications
- LEED AP Building Design + Construction (LEED AP BD+C)
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
Jessica White
(123) 456-7890
[email protected]
567 First Street, New York, NY 12345
Profile
Versatile and creative architect with over 15 years of experience designing commercial and residential buildings in a variety of sizes and styles. Record of unique and sustainable design that exceeds LEED standards.
Professional Experience
Architect, IGM Architects, New York, NY
September 2010 – Present
- Key architect at a high-end international architecture and engineering firm.
- Design and develop 2 -3 multi-million dollar projects through all phases of work each year.
- Create bid-winning designs at 10-15% less cost than competitor bids
- Attend regular on-site meetings to ensure quality control on each project
Junior Architect, Style Architects, Boston, MT
September 2006 – August 2010
- Prepared 100 blueprint drawings each year for new and existing clients
- Analyzed costs and benefits of projects
- Directed team of 15 technicians in creating comprehensive documents for projects
- Inspected building sites to assess suitability for projects and to link the style of design to the landscape
Intern Architect, MNA Steel Architects, Boston, MT
June 2005 – August 2006
- Assisted senior architects in presenting projects and drawing ideas to clients
- Created 3D models for presentations
- Created and updated project cost sheets
- Shadowed senior architects to learn best practices
Education
Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies
New York University, New York, NY, September 1999 – June 2003
Master of Architecture
New York University, New York, NY, September 2003 – June 2005
Key Skills
- AutoCAD
- Site Investigation
- Negotiation
- Material Application Knowledge
- Presentation and Public Speaking
Frequently Asked Questions: Architect Resume Examples and Advice
What are common action verbs for architect resumes?+
It can be hard not to use the same words and phrases again and again when describing your past jobs. To keep things fresh, here are some common action verbs to use in your resume:
| Action Verbs | |
|---|---|
| Budget | Collaborate |
| Communicate | Compute |
| Create | Design |
| Draw | Lead |
| Manage | Negotiate |
| Organize | Present |
| Schedule | Solve |
| Visualize | |
How do you align your resume with an architect job posting?+
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the job market for architects will grow 5% over the next decade. This is about average for the overall job market, equating to roughly 8,200 new positions. However, improved software and technology are expected to make architects more productive, which limits employment growth. Jobs for architects are also tied to the construction industry, and a slowdown in new projects is likely to lead to fewer jobs in architecture.
Companies use job postings to define the mix of skills and experience their ideal candidate should possess. They compare the resumes they receive against this document to help them identify those with the strongest potential. Including your attributes and accomplishments that mirror what’s detailed in the job posting can help you stand out from a crowd of candidates.
Read the job posting carefully to identify which traits should be included. The hiring manager’s key priorities are often listed at the start of the job posting or mentioned more than once. Compare your resume to this list and make sure it demonstrates how you meet their needs. A bland resume may be overlooked, so avoid generic descriptions and focus on your biggest achievements.
What is the best architect resume format?+
The combination format is good for architect resumes because it allows you to showcase your skills and work experience in a balanced way. It can help you highlight your relevant qualifications and achievements and demonstrate your career progression and professional development. A combination resume can also help you overcome potential challenges, such as gaps in employment, career changes, or lack of experience in a specific field.
Expert advice: include a cover letter with your resume
Once you finish your resume, a good way to finalize your application before sending it off to your prospective employer is to add a cover letter. This is a great opportunity to speak directly to the hiring manager and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job.
Remember, a cover letter should be fairly succinct. Try not to exceed more than 400 words — 250 to 300 is ideal. For more information and ideas, view our engineering cover letter examples.
