Architectural Technician Kaihangarau Hoahoa Whare

Architectural technicians create drawings and make models of building structures, research construction materials, and assist with building consent processes.

Architectural technicians can apply for a professional licence under the Licensed Building Practitioners scheme. 

Architectural technicians and architectural designers can apply to become registered with Architectural Designers New Zealand.

Architectural technicians may do some or all of the following:

  • make detailed drawings and build models of building structures
  • interpret sketches and project instructions
  • research building materials
  • check that drawings comply with statutory and regulatory building requirements
  • assist with consent processes
  • co-ordinate with other building professionals and deal with clients.

Useful Experience

Useful experience for architectural technicians includes:

  • civil, electrical or mechanical engineering draughting work
  • work in the building construction industry
  • any practical building work
  • interior design work.

Personal Qualities

Architectural technicians need to be:

  • accurate, with an eye for detail
  • well organised, patient and reliable
  • creative, yet practical 
  • able to work well under pressure
  • skilled in communication and listening
  • customer focused
  • good at problem solving, and able to make good judgements.

Skills

Architectural technicians need to have:

  • computer skills and knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) draughting software packages
  • design skills
  • the ability to interpret drawings
  • knowledge of architecture, building methods and materials
  • knowledge of the New Zealand Building Code, New Zealand Building Act, Resource Management Act, local by-laws and town planning regulations.

Conditions

Architectural technicians:

  • usually work regular hours, but may be required to work overtime to meet deadlines
  • typically spend most of their time working in offices, but may visit building sites.

Architectural Technicians can earn around $70K-$125K per year.

Pay for architectural technicians varies depending on experience and location.

Architectural technicians usually earn between $70,000 and $125,000 a year.

Source: Hays, 'Hays Salary Guide FY23-24', 2023.

Architectural technicians may progress to lead teams, start their own business or move into construction management.

With further training, architectural technicians may progress to become architects.

Architectural technicians may specialise in certain types of structures such as:

  • large commercial buildings
  • subdivisions
  • residential housing.

Architectural technicians can specialise in a number of roles, including:

Architectural Designer
Architectural designers are licensed building practitioners who create their own design plans and full working drawings.

Years Of Training

2 years of training required.

To become an architectural technician you need to have the minimum qualification of a New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6).

To become an architectural designer you must also be a licensed building practitioner. 

Architectural Technician