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What are the different types of architecture jobs in Colorado and what do they entail?
Architecture jobs in Colorado are typically for the design and construction of buildings, such as commercial buildings and industrial facilities. The architect may also have responsibility for the interior design of buildings, focusing primarily on the arrangement of designing interior spaces and furniture layouts while considering ergonomic needs. Some architects may find employment in the planning of building structures and interior finishes, although this is much less common for architects today. Architects are often employed in commercial projects or may specialize in specific types of building structures, such as sports facilities. Architects may also specialize in architectural plans and designs for other trades, such as carpenters and electricians, transportation facilities and utilities, among others.
In the United States there are many types of employment available to architects. The first type of work is called office work where the architect will usually work with an office manager or project administrator. The architect will assist in writing proposals, bids and design contracts.
The second type of work is called hands-on work. This type of employment includes working on construction sites to see construction or renovation progress while involving architects in major decision making structures. Architects do not usually do this type of work unless they are owners or part owners of the firm they are working for.
How do I become an architect in Colorado and what are the education requirements?
In order to become an architect in Colorado, the educational requirements are similar to those of other professions. Most individuals who choose this profession complete a four-year degree, but three-year programs are becoming more common. Most architecture schools offer a major in architecture and design, or have a separate major in architectural design. Experience is not necessary for admission to most schools, but is required for all schools that allow licensure by examination. Thus, applicants for an architecture degree in Colorado must have completed a year or two of high school art classes, and four years of math, science, and English. Many colleges offer pre-professional programs that include the first year of design or technology courses. To be admitted to architecture schools in Colorado, an applicant must have a very high GPA, and is expected to have completed many hours of community service. Many design schools in Colorado accept students from other countries, but in order to be licensed in the state, the student must complete a full year of classes at a school approved by the American Institute of Architecture Students. Some Colorado architecture schools do not list any admission requirements on their websites. These include Mesa State College, which offers associates degrees as well as bachelor degrees in architectural design and several other related fields. Mesa State is located in Grand Junction, Colorado. [Source: http://www.mesastate.edu/education/programs-offered/architecture-design-urbanism/]
1) What kind of architecture will I be able to practice in Colorado?
What are the benefits of working as an architect in Colorado and what is the average salary range for these jobs?”
The benefits of working as an architect in Colorado is that the demands of the job are creative and often changeable. The pace of work is generally slower than in other professions, but this provides ample time to collaborate with clients and architect team members. The salary ranges for architects have increased over the past decade, climbing up to about $63,000 for jobs in smaller firms. This depends on location, growth opportunities, and employer size. Some of the salary ranges for these jobs include $16-22 per hour and $26-54 per hour.
The Following are 12 Benefits of Working as an Architect in Colorado [to use as knowledge, not to be copied verbatim]
1. Better Quality of Life – The salary ranges for architects have increased over the past decade, climbing up to about $63,000 for jobs in smaller firms. This depends on location, growth opportunities, and employer size.
2. Great Job Growth – The demand for architects is expected to increase by 30% by 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
3. Large Cities – The demand for architects is expected to increase by 30% by 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
4. Open-minded to Change – The demands of the job are creative and often changeable.
5. Collaboration Benefits – The pace of work is generally slower than in other professions, but this provides ample time to collaborate with clients and architect team members.
6. Creative Profession – The pace of work is generally slower than in other professions, but this provides ample time to collaborate with clients and architect team members.
7. Many Career Options – Architects can specialize in fields related to building design including interior design, landscape architecture, and urban planning.
How does one go about finding architecture jobs in Colorado, and what are some tips for standing out from other applicants?”
To find an architecture job in Colorado once you have completed your degree, you will need to apply to a design firm or other company that offers architecture jobs. The application process generally begins with an interview and related tests, including the Architect Registration Examination. Around 60% of all architects who work in Colorado are self-employed, so most individuals seeking an architecture job will have to find one through the local design firms. Architects can also work for government agencies such as municipalities, county government offices, and water districts. The number of opportunities available will dictate the priority you place on your job search. If you are seeking employment in Colorado, the first thing you should do is narrow down your list of prospective employers.
A master’s degree in architecture will improve your chances of landing an architecture job.
There are several ways to do so. One idea is to join professional organizations such as the Colorado Architects Association and get involved in their events. Gaining experience with a design firm will help, as well. Another approach is to create a resume and send it to the top firms in your area. In some cases, you may have to take a minor in a related field such as environmental design or construction management.
Architects working for government agencies may be exempt from the state’s teaching requirement.
What are some common challenges that architects face while working in Colorado, and how can they be overcome?”
While most challenges are similar to those faced in other occupations, there are some unique challenges that come with the job of being an architect. The first is often related to changes in the market. Many architects fear they will not be able to keep up with the development of new technologies and can no longer support themselves financially. The second challenge is working together as a team, which requires a certain amount of trust and understanding between associates. The third challenge is avoiding conflicts with clients or other designers, which is often attributable to lawsuits and complaints against architects. Some common obstacles that architects face include completing the design, gaining approval, and then building the structure in a timely manner.
Architects must be particularly creative and critical in their approach to certain jobs, such as coordinating a job with other professionals, including engineers and construction managers. They must also have the ability to adapt to changes on the job site, where practical and aesthetic options can be limited by budget constraints or deadlines for construction. They must have excellent communication skills in order to work effectively with clients and others involved in the process as well as deal effectively with a range of people from construction supervisors to interior designers. Architects must have a strong sense of commitment to their profession.
Architects also have the responsibility and challenge to complete a complicated design, often with limited resources, in a timely manner. Architects must focus on features that will last years or even decades because major mistakes are likely to be costly. Architects may see this as an opportunity because they might receive the opportunity to initiate the project. Architects must also worry about losing their clients to other designers because they might not be as responsive or detailed as an architect. Architects may also become disconnected with the client because they may not work well with the client before or after the construction is complete.
