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Architect

An architect is a professional who designs different types of buildings and structures (from private houses to public or commercial buildings), making sure they are functional, safe, and aesthetic. The architect talks and works with clients to understand the needs of the project, and also collaborates with different specialists during the construction process.

Salary

The salary of an architect can vary depending on work experience and job conditions.

Working hours

Variable, depending on the employer and project.

Remote work possibility

Yes, at least partly, depending on the employer.

Types of employers

In Romania, an architect can work in different ways:

  • Employee in an architecture office or firm

  • Employee in a construction company or real estate developer

  • Employee in a non-governmental organization

  • Employee in the public sector, in institutions or agencies (for example, local administration, the Ministry of Development, Public Works and Administration, or the Regional Development Agency)

  • Freelancer or entrepreneur, working independently or in their own architecture office

Every architect must register their professional activity at the Order of Architects of Romania (OAR).

Responsibilities

  • Discuss and analyze project details with the client (objectives, budget, requirements, materials, time, etc.)

  • Check the feasibility of a project and create design proposals for buildings or other constructions

  • Make a detailed plan, including materials, tools, costs, and construction time

  • Work closely with a team of experts (builders, engineers, designers, project managers, etc.) and follow the progress of the work

  • Prepare the documents needed to get the building permit and other approvals

  • Write and present reports, project proposals, contracts, and other documents

Sources: (1) + (3) + (4) + (5)

Skills

Creativity and design skills

  • Creativity, imagination, and a strong sense of aesthetics

  • Knowledge of architectural design and technical drawing

  • Attention to detail and analytical thinking in the creative process

Technical and functional understanding

  • Technical knowledge about constructions, materials, and processes

  • Understanding of the urban, social, and economic context of a building

  • Math skills for calculating dimensions

Communication and teamwork

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Ability to listen, understand, and discuss client needs

  • Skills to clearly present proposals and projects

  • Negotiation skills to agree on the final project form

  • Ability to collaborate with professionals from different fields (engineers, builders, etc.)

  • Ability to organize and lead a team

Digital and organizational skills

  • Good skills in using architecture software and design applications

  • Ability to organize time and resources efficiently

Sources: (1) + (3) + (4) + (5)

Qualifications

To become an architect, a person needs to follow these steps:

  • Get a degree in architecture after completing a formal study program at an accredited university (minimum 5 years).

  • Do a professional internship, regulated by the Order of Architects of Romania (OAR). The duration depends on the type of internship:

    • A guided internship under an architect with signature rights, minimum 2 years, done in an architecture office with real projects.

    • An unguided internship, minimum 5 years, accepted if the architect can prove relevant professional experience in architecture design, evaluated and approved by OAR.

  • After the internship, get the “right of signature” through an exam organized by OAR. This right allows the architect to take responsibility for architectural projects, make professional decisions independently, and sign official documents for building permits.

Sources: (6) + (9) + (10)

What else you can do

  • Extra activities to practice drawing, creating plans, and 3D models (courses, drawing clubs, or self-practice)

  • Read articles, books, and watch videos about architecture to stay updated with new trends

  • Join internships, volunteering, or summer schools in an architecture office

  • Take part in architecture events (exhibitions, conferences, workshops) and connect with other participants

  • Join extra courses related to architecture, like those on Edu.OAR, the e-learning platform managed by OAR

  • Participate in architecture competitions or apply for scholarships for young architects

Sources: (3) + (11)

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