What Skills Should Architectural Designers Have?
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Learn the Skills You Need to Become an Architectural Designer
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AutoCAD
AutoCAD is a commercial computer-aided design and drafting software developed by Autodesk. AutoCAD is used to create 2D drawings and 3D models.
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CAD
Computer-aided design (CAD) is a technology used to create, modify, and optimize precise 2D and 3D designs. CAD software is widely used in engineering, architecture, and product design to streamline the drafting and modeling process.
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BIM
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital process that enables the creation and management of detailed 3D models for architecture, engineering, and construction projects.
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Revit
Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software developed by Autodesk, designed for architects, engineers, and construction professionals. It enables collaborative, data-rich 3D modeling, allowing users to plan, design, and manage building projects.
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Blueprint Reading
Blueprint reading is the skill of interpreting technical drawings and plans used in construction, engineering, and manufacturing. It involves understanding symbols, scales, and annotations to accurately visualize and execute a project.
Architectural Designer Salaries
An Architectural Designer in the United States makes, on average, $71,263 annually, according to Indeed.com.
Salaries for Architectural Designers vary by region within the the United States. Listed below are some Architectural Designer salaries for specific areas with the United States compared with the average national salary:
- U.S. Average $71K source n/a
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Los Angeles, CA
$84K
source
+19.15%
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Washington, D.C.
$83K
source
+17.26%
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New York City
$83K
source
+17.18%
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Orange County, CA
$82K
source
+16.4%
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Dallas, TX
$82K
source
+15.9%
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Fairfax, VA
$77K
source
+8.72%
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Houston, TX
$75K
source
+5.99%
- U.S. Average $71K source n/a
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Alexandria, VA
$64K
source
-9.06%
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Chicago, IL
$64K
source
-9.7%
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Miami, FL
$60K
source
-14.66%
Additional Architectural Designer Resources
- Architectural Designer Job Description
- What Software Do Architectural Designers Use?
- Best Cities for Architectural Designers
- Is Architectural Design Right For Me?
- What Degree Do You Need to Become an Architectural Designer?
- Architectural Designer Career Path
- Architectural Designer Certifications
- How to Become an Architectural Designer Without a Degree in 2025
- How to Become a Freelance Architectural Designer in 2025
- Architectural Designer Job Search Tips & Best Practices
- Architectural Designer Job Outlook
- What Classes to Take to Become an Architectural Designer
- How to Become an Architectural Designer At Home
Related Careers
Architectural Designers develop building concepts, working closely with Architects, CAD Drafters, and Interior Designers to refine projects. Those interested in technical execution may transition into CAD roles, ensuring designs are properly documented and structured. Interior Designers often collaborate with Architectural Designers on spatial planning, making it a potential career pivot. With experience in project management and technical software, Architectural Designers can advance into licensed Architect positions, overseeing entire building projects.
Learn more about Architectural Designer related career paths
Salary Comparison to Architectural Designer
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Architect
$108K
+51.71%
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Designer
$76K
+7.44%
- Architectural Designer $71K n/a
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Interior Designer
$68K
-3.19%
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CAD Drafter
$59K
-17.04%
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Architect
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$108K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$112K / year
Architects provide designs and plans for buildings and specialized infastructure, focusing primarily on the pre-construction planning and drafting phases.
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CAD Drafter
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$59K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$74K / year
A CAD drafter is responsible for creating detailed technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design (CAD) software, converting concepts and ideas into precise blueprints for buildings, machinery, or products. They meticulously draft and revise these drawings, incorporating dimensions, specifications, and annotations to ensure accurate representation for construction or manufacturing purposes.
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Designer
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$76K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$94K / year
Designers work in a wide variety of industries and specialize in just as many mediums. Most designers create digital assets, but some designers work with hand-drawn sketches and illustrations. They start with an understanding of the best design principles and functional aesthetics. Common fields for designers include web, apps, print, fashion, animation, advertising, and UX design.
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Interior Designer
Indeed.com Avg. Salary
$68K / year
Glassdoor Avg. Salary
$113K / year
Interior designers are responsible for designing the furnishing and layout of the interior of a room, building or structure.