What does a professional Architectural Technician do?
Professional Architectural Technicians are specialists in the application of technology to architecture, building design and construction. Technician members of CIAT, TCIAT, are an integral part of an architectural design service, working alongside fellow Architectural Technicians in support of Chartered Architectural Technologists, architects, engineers, surveyors and other professionals within the construction industry. Whilst Technician members of CIAT, TCIAT, cannot practise on their own account, they are an integral part of the architectural design process.
Developing the architectural project
Architectural Technicians are specialists in the collation, organisation and investigation of technical information for use during the development of the project design
- Collating and organising technical information
- Investigating technical information and factors that affect developments, including user needs, site and building surveys and regulatory requirements
- Monitoring health and safety in design
- Preparing regulatory applications
Architectural design
Architectural Technicians specialise in the application of technology to architecture, building design and construction. They are recognised as having specialist skills enabling them to use their technical knowledge and skills to provide innovative solutions
- Preparing design proposals using CAD and traditional methods
- Contributing to the detailed design process and co-ordinating detailed design information
- Preparing specifications for construction work
- Preparing drawings, plans and documents for statutory approvals
- Contributing to design stage risk assessment
Contract management
Architectural Technicians can participate in the process
- Making site visits
- Obtaining tenders for construction work
- Contributing to meetings and document preparation
Professional practice
Whilst Technician members of CIAT, TCIAT, cannot practise on their own account, they are an integral part of the architectural design process. As architectural professionals they must adhere to a Code of Conduct
- Liaising between members of the design and construction team
- Providing professional technical guidance to design and construction teams
- Undertaking structured Continuing Professional Development (CPD), possibly progressing towards Chartered Membership of CIAT, MCIAT, and a career as a Chartered Architectural Technologist