Architectural & Engineering Design

What Architects Do

An architect is a construction design professional responsible for creating plans and designs for structures, including homes, corporate offices and industrial buildings. They typically begin projects by meeting with clients to learn about goals and requirements. After initial meetings, architects develop preliminary plans that include cost estimates and prospective timelines. Architects may also research sites and perform preliminary studies to confirm the viability of the space or environment.

Many architects use advanced software, including computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) programs, to produce drawings of their proposed structures. Some draw these designs by hand. They also research building codes, structural issues and material specifications before proceeding with projects.

Once they have confirmed projects with clients, architects may hire contractors to perform building and construction tasks. They may also oversee the construction process, frequently traveling to the worksite to assess progress.

To do their jobs well, architects must be creative to produce innovative yet functional designs. They need strong analytical skills to understand how functional aspects of structures affect the overall design, and they need excellent technical skills to use CADD programs efficiently.

Work Environment

Architects do most of their work in offices where they use computers to design structures, meet with clients in person and over the phone and collaborate with designers and engineers. Most architects also travel to job sites where they oversee construction projects. These professionals generally work full time and may work overtime when completing major projects. 

What Engineers Do

Engineers who design and develop buildings and structures are known as construction engineers. They oversee construction projects, including monitoring specifications, timelines and budgets. These engineering professionals are also responsible for ensuring that designs, construction methods and building materials are safe.

Construction engineers begin projects by meeting with clients and colleagues to assess project needs and to review plans, maps and reports. They assess risks ranging from construction costs and timelines to environmental issues and government regulations. In many cases, they are also responsible for obtaining building permits from local agencies.

As they develop projects, construction engineers use CADD programs to create designs for buildings and structures. To do their jobs well, engineers must have strong computer and design skills as well as excellent communication skills. They must be highly organized, especially if they work on multiple projects simultaneously, and they need strong problem-solving skills to devise quick resolutions for engineering issues that arise during projects.

Work Enviroment

Engineers generally develop designs, research projects and perform administrative duties while working in offices. However, construction engineers tend to travel frequently, often visiting job sites where they monitor project progress and assist with problem-solving. When major projects require constant off-site work, construction engineers may have to relocate for weeks or months.