What are architectural technologists and architectural technicians?

The jobs of both these professionals are similar in many ways to that of an architect. However, the architect is more concerned with the aesthetic properties of a building, whereas the technologist and technician are involved with the technical side of what goes into the making of the building. (For detailed information on the roles and responsibilities of architects please read our Architect guide.)

What do they do?

Architectural technologists work closely with architects, although they are also qualified to take sole responsibility for a project from beginning to end, provided they are a member of their professional body. They form a link between the architect's design and the finished building, making sure that the correct materials are used and that any planning and building regulations are complied with. They are also responsible for quality and cost control, as well as ensuring that the project deadlines are met.

Architectural technicians have a narrower, specialised range of skills and provide support to both architects and architectural technologists. They cannot set up their own practice.

What are the qualifications?

Much of an architectural technologist's training is done on the job, with employers providing day-release for BTEC HNC/HND or NVQ courses. Those who have passed the relevant course, or those on approved training schemes, can become an Associate of the CIAT (Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists). Full membership can not be obtained until at least two years after becoming an Associate and involves keeping a log book, showing appropriate experience and competencies across a wide range of projects. Finally, a professional interview is held.

To embark on the training to become an architectural technician, you require A levels or a GNVQ or BTEC qualification. The HND or HNC is the next step, and this can be done either at college or through an approved apprenticeship scheme, many of which are aimed at 16 to 24-year-olds. In a similar way to the log book required by architectural technologists, technicians too have to acquire the relevant work experience and competencies to become a Technician member of the CIAT. This can take two to three years. Some architectural technicians eventually go on to become architectural technologists.

Where should I look? What should I be looking for?

The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) represents around 7,500 professionals working and studying in the UK and overseas. They produce an annual directory listing all registered practices, alphabetically by county for the UK, and by country for overseas.

The letters to look for are MCIAT (Member of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists) or, in the case of architectural technicians, TCIAT (Technician member of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists). MCIATs must also have Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII), which provides cover should a mistake be made or bad advice be given.