An Architect designs buildings and spaces, managing a project from initial concept through to construction completion. A typical week involves client meetings, developing drawings in AutoCAD or Revit, writing planning applications, visiting sites, and coordinating with structural engineers and contractors. Most architects work in private practices, but large construction firms, housebuilders like Barratt Developments, and local councils also employ them directly. You report to a Project Architect or Director and juggle multiple projects at different stages simultaneously.
James Murray
Architect
📍 London, UK✉️ james.murray@email.com
Summary
RIBA Part 3 qualified Architect with 8 years of experience at internationally renowned practices. Expert in sustainable design, complex planning, and delivering landmark mixed-use and cultural projects.
Work Experience
Project Architect at Foster + PartnersJan 2020 — Present
Lead design development for £80M mixed-use commercial project from RIBA Stage 2 through to construction
Manage coordination with structural, MEP, and landscape consultants across 15-member design team
Architect at Zaha Hadid ArchitectsSep 2016 — Dec 2019
Contributed to design development of award-winning £200M cultural centre from competition to RIBA Stage 4
Created 3D visualisations and presentation materials for international client presentations
Architect CVs need to show design capability, technical competence, and project delivery experience. Recruiters want to see RIBA Part status, project types and scale, and sustainability achievements.
Key Skills to Include
AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, building regulations, planning applications, project management, BIM, sustainable design, and client presentations.
Common Mistakes
Listing software without showing design outcomes. "Proficient in Revit" is expected. Show how you used tools to deliver real project outcomes.
Formatting Tips
Two pages maximum. Use a design-conscious template. Include RIBA Part status at the top. Consider a Selected Projects section with values and stages.
Average Salary — Architect
United States
$75,000 – $110,000
United Kingdom
$42,000 – $65,000
Germany
$52,000 – $78,000
UAE / Dubai
$65,000 – $100,000
Canada
$62,000 – $90,000
Australia
$70,000 – $100,000
Figures in USD. Ranges reflect mid-level experience (3–7 years). Senior roles and major metro areas typically sit at the top of these bands.
Top 5 Interview Questions — Architect
1Walk me through a project you took from concept to planning approval.
Structure your answer around RIBA stages. Show you understand the client brief, design iterations, planning constraints, and how you navigated any objections or revisions.
2How do you manage a project when the client's brief and the budget don't align?
Show commercial awareness and communication skill. Talk about value engineering, phasing the project, or educating the client on realistic costs early. Avoiding the problem is worse than tackling it.
3What BIM software have you used and to what level of detail?
Be specific about Revit, ArchiCAD, or Rhino experience and the BIM levels you've worked to. Mention any experience with clash detection or coordinating federated models with other disciplines.
4Tell me about a time a project went off programme. How did you handle it?
Show project management credibility. Explain what caused the delay, what you did to recover the programme, and how you kept the client informed without losing their confidence.
5How do you stay current with building regulations and planning policy changes?
Mention specific resources — NBS, Planning Portal, RIBA guidance, CPD events. Show you treat this as an ongoing responsibility, not a box you tick once.
How to Tailor Your CV
Atkins, Foster + Partners, and Grimshaw look for strong technical drawings portfolios and BIM proficiency alongside design creativity. Housebuilders like Persimmon or Taylor Wimpey want efficiency and knowledge of planning policy over cutting-edge design. For public sector roles with local councils, experience with accessible design and listed building consent will stand out.