Architect: Alternative Careers. A guide for newcomers to British Columbia

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2 Contents 1. Architect: Alternative Careers Employment Outlook Retraining Searching for Jobs Volunteering in the Field Helpful Resources Architect: Alternative Careers You may find that your international training and experience as an architect are not immediately accepted in B.C. The scientific and mathematical skills you have already acquired, along with your artistic talent and communication skills, can be used in alternative careers. You may wish to investigate certification as either an Applied Science Technologist (AScT) or Certified Technician (CTech), or Provisional Member under the disciplines of Building-Architecture. You can also consider alternative careers in construction. Architectural Technologist / Technician (NOC 2251) Architectural technologists and technicians may work independently or provide technical assistance to professional architects and civil design engineers in conducting research, preparing drawings, architectural models, specifications and contracts, and cost estimate. They also ensure designs meet provincial building code regulations and supervise construction projects. Requirements: Two to three year diploma program for technologists or one to two year program for technicians, PLUS two years of related work experience Skills: creativity, persistence, and an eye for detail ability to visualize buildings in three dimensions and then reproduce them in two dimensions. strong math and computer skills communication skills and ability to work in a team environment Wages: median hourly wage $27 per hour Source: WorkBC, Last updated April 29,

3 Certification: Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of British Columbia (ASTTBC) o ASTTBC Provisional Membership for Internationally Trained Professionals: o Registration Requirements: Internationally Trained Professionals: Free online self-assessment of your academic qualifications and working experience provided by Technology Registrations Canada (TRC) Source: WorkBC (Search NOC 2251) Cost Estimator / Construction Estimator (NOC 2234) These people calculate construction project costs, and how long the project will take to complete. They review building drawings and specifications, visit construction sites, and research current material prices. Requirements: although a diploma in civil or construction engineering is usually required, some positions may accept construction experience Skills: Strong math, organization, analytical, writing and communication skills computer skills are a requirement for this position due to the use of estimating software and document management programs interest in planning, decision making, problem solving, working with people, and the financial aspect of construction Wages: median hourly wage $26.92 per hour Source: WorkBC, Last updated April 29,

4 Construction Inspector (NOC 2264) Inspect and examine buildings, bridges, highways and construction sites to ensure that specifications, building codes and safety regulations are observed Requirements: although most Construction inspectors hold post secondary education in construction, civil engineering or architectural technology, individuals with several years of experience as a qualified tradesperson in a construction trade such as plumbing, carpentry or electrical may qualify to become construction inspectors. Skills: knowledge of construction techniques, building codes and standards well organized and analytical ability to communicate information clearly and precisely good mathematical skills. Wages: median hourly wage $31.25 per hour Source: WorkBC, Construction Manager (NOC 0711) Construction managers plan, organize, direct, control and evaluate the activities of a construction company or a construction department. They plan and oversee the building of all kinds of structures, including skyscrapers, houses, roads, and bridges. Requirements: Most people who enter this field have a background in engineering or construction; Others are skilled tradespeople with years of experience in the industry Skills: ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently thorough, detail-oriented, highly organized good oral and written communication skills needed to effectively communicate with engineers, architects, tradespeople, clients, and suppliers. Wages: median hourly wage $38.46 per hour Source: WorkBC, Last updated April 29,

5 2. Employment Outlook Architectural Technologists and Technicians (NOC 2251) The demand for architectural technologists and technicians is expected to continue to grow over the next few years. The non-residential construction, new housing construction and renovation projects, and investments in major resource and infrastructure projects in northern BC are the biggest contributors to job creation. Job Opening Outlook: Architectural Technologists and Technicians Source: Work BC Construction/Cost Estimators (NOC 2234) The Construction industry is experiencing slowing demand in both residential and non-residential sectors compared to prior to the recent economic downturn. When construction activities increase, employment prospects for workers in this occupational group will also increase. Job Opening Outlook: Construction / Cost Estimator Source: Work BC Last updated April 29,

6 Construction Inspectors (NOC 2264) All new job openings are expected to arise due to retirement. Although the majority of construction inspectors are employed in the Public administration and Professional business services industries, the demand for their labour is driven by the Construction industry. Government funding for capital projects could be an important source of construction employment. Job Opening Outlook: Construction Inspectors Source: Work BC Construction Managers (NOC 0711) The demand for workers in B.C. s construction industry will fluctuate over the next decade depending on the region and sector, but the overall trend is toward nearrecord levels of employment. Construction managers work in all construction sectors: New Home Building and Renovation, Heavy Industrial, Institutional and Commercial, and Civil Engineering. It is anticipated that there will be 15,300 job openings for construction managers in B.C. between 2012 and The majority of these openings will be available from workers retiring. Job Opening Outlook: Construction Managers Source: Work BC Last updated April 29,

7 3. Retraining You may want to consider upgrading your skills to increase your employment options in this field. The following courses may improve your current skill set: Public Works Association of B.C. (PWABC) provides a variety of programs BCIT School of Construction and the Environment 4. Searching for Jobs BC Jobs.ca BC Construction Job Store Canadian Homebuilders Association /index.asp Construction Job Centre Greater Vancouver Home Builders Association, Job Bank Indeed.ca MyJobSite.ca Skilled Workers.com T-Net British Columbia: BC Technology Job Search TechJobs.ca 5. Volunteering in the Field Volunteering can help you to explore a new career and learn more about engineering and technical work in B.C. You will meet new people and build a network of contacts that may lead to information on job openings and an inside connection at a potential employer. Go Volunteer Habitat for Humanity Last updated April 29,

8 (can volunteer at construction sites or at ReStores) Volunteer BC RedR Canada 6. Helpful Resources Applied Science Technologists & Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) British Columbia Construction Association Vancouver Regional Construction Association Fastest Growing Industries: Construction Go to [Search: Fastest growing industries construction] Questions? Please ask the Information Staff in the Central Library, Vancouver Public Library or telephone Please note that the information in this guide is also available online through the Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre website at This project is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada with support from the Province of British Columbia Last updated April 29,