Important Architectural Engineer Information

Nov 27, 2022

min read

A job as an architectural engineer may be the best fit for you if you enjoy creating contemporary and dynamic spaces for people to work, live, and play. However, it's crucial to understand more about architectural engineering and its requirements before starting the voyage. In this post, we go over important details about architectural engineers, including their duties, typical salaries, employment prospects, and potential workplaces.

What is an architectural engineer?

An architectural engineer is an on-site architect who applies their knowledge and expertise of building designs and specifications in managing and supervising construction projects. They employ scientific and mathematical concepts in building plans to test, assess and upgrade the structural integrity of buildings and building systems. Architectural engineers may specialize in various designs of a particular building system like plumbing, electrical and ventilation.

Architectural engineer information

Being an architectural engineer is an intensive undertaking that requires an individual to be equipped with the necessary information about the career. The following includes important aspects about architectural engineering that you should know:

Responsibilities of an architectural engineer

A successful architectural engineer should be able to perform various duties that involve directing and overseeing the structural, mechanical and electrical operations in building projects to ensure efficient utilities. Here are specific duties and responsibilities of an architectural engineer:

Study and evaluate construction designs and blueprints to guarantee a feasible plan
Ensure the structural integrity and safety of a proposed structure as opposed to building styles and aesthetics
Identify and solve issues in building plans, structures and prototypes
Validate the structural and mechanical integrity of buildings in anticipation of wind loads, vibrations and earthquakes
Design and analyze air conditioning systems, heating and ventilation while optimizing energy conservation and efficiency
Coordinate with construction professionals like engineers and contractors to monitor and direct construction operations
Conduct estimates to determine the cost of acquiring construction materials
Offer recommendations on necessary alterations and improvements required for increased efficiency
Modify a building design mid-construction to contain additional components as required by a client
Carry out research to identify current trends and developments in architectural engineering
Maintain updated information on safe designs, building codes and material features to establish an environmentally friendly and stable building

Requirements to become an architectural engineer

Becoming an architectural engineer calls for fulfillment of several requirements, which proves that you are capable and qualified for performing the job. Here is more information on what each of the following requirements entails:

Education

To become an architectural engineer, earning a bachelor's degree in architecture is mandatory. The architecture degree programs generally last five years and may be accompanied by a Master of Architectural Engineering. The time required depends on the extent of your previous education and training in architecture.

A basic bachelor's degree program includes courses in architectural theory and history. Practical courses are in building design with an emphasis on computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), math, liberal arts, structures, professional practices, physical sciences and construction methods.

Licensure

Depending on the state of operation, an architectural engineer may hold a degree in architecture from one of the 122 schools of architecture accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). State licensing requirements are available at the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).

Architectural engineers who offer their services directly to the public must have a license as professional engineers (PEs). To become a PE, you must pass two exams administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. Although requirements vary by state, continuing education may be necessary for licensure maintenance.

Training

State architectural registration boards require architecture graduates to undertake a paid internship of at least three years before completing the Architect Registration Examination. Architectural engineers may undergo their training by working at architectural companies through the Architectural Experience Program (AXP), a program run by NCARB to guide students through their internship.

As an intern, you may help design part of a project by preparing architectural documents, building models and preparing construction drawings on CADD. Training as an intern may also involve researching building codes and writing specifications for building materials, quality of finishes and installation criteria.

Skills for an architectural engineer

A successful architectural engineer will have certain skills to be able to perform at the job, including:

Analytical skills to understand the content of designs and the context in which they were formulated, like mechanical systems and how they influence building operations
Communication skills to enable sharing of ideas through giving presentations and preparing drawings
Organizational skills to manage contracts by maintaining records, such as budget and progress related to the details of a project
Creativity in designing the overall look of buildings and other structures to achieve a desirable and functional product
Technical skills to operate CADD technology to create plans as part of building information modeling (BIM)
Visualization skills to be able to envision how the parts of a structure relate to each other
Mathematical skills for making mathematical calculations to determine the specifications of a building design

Average salary for an architectural engineer

For engineers in general, the national average salary is approximately $69,061 per year, and for a structural engineer, it is about $88,621 per year. You can expect to earn within this range, subject to the type of role, state requirements and your employer.

Job outlook

Employment for architectural engineers is **projected to grow by 3%** from 2018 to 2028. The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that employment growth would largely reflect on industries such as engineering consulting firms and civil engineering services like the construction of roads and large buildings. Since architectural engineering jobs are highly desirable, candidates can expect competition for openings. Additionally, since architectural engineering managers also conduct financial marketing and production activities in their companies, business management skills can be important for those looking for management positions.

Architectural engineers are also expected to come up with plans and designs for the building and renovation of homes, retail stores, offices and other structures. Demand is expected for schools and universities constructing new facilities and renovating old ones. Health care facilities are also expected to seek the services of architectural engineers as the baby boomer population ages and more people require health care services.

Demand for engineers with knowledge of the new trend of green (or sustainable) design is also expected to surge. Architects will be required to design buildings and structures that conserve energy, efficiently use resources, reduce water and air pollution, and implement environmentally friendly designs.

Employment opportunities for architectural engineers

Before practicing as an architectural engineer, graduates must complete the Principles and Practice of Engineering Exam and an additional licensing exam. Once approved, qualified applicants can seek work in structural and electrical design firms. Alternatively, architectural engineers can work with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The following include more areas of employment: