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ConstructionTop JobColorado Talent Pipeline Report-aligned occupation with strong annual openings, growth, and wage signals.Green JobOccupation aligned to O*NET green economy classifications.

Architect

Plans and designs structures, such as private residences, office buildings, theaters, factories, and other structural property. Often uses computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) systems.

Annual openings

329

Median wage

$102,400

Typical education

Bachelor's degree

Growth 2026–2032

+7%

Median wage source: Colorado BLS OEWS (2025).

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Career requirements

What does this career require?

Explore education, required qualifications, voluntary credentials and employer preferences for this role. Check the details to see which apply.

Typical education

Bachelor's degree

Credential requirement

Credential requirements not reported

Work experience

No previous work experience is required.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

Work style

The type of work can vary by job and employer.

  • With childrenNo
  • On a computerYes
  • OutdoorsNo
  • With your handsMay vary

Interests it draws on

  • Trades
  • Architectural and Civil Drafting

Automation exposure

Low exposure

Tasks here lean on judgement and people skills that are hard to automate.

A typical day

  1. Develop final construction plans that include aesthetic representations of the structure or details for its construction.
  2. Prepare scale drawings or architectural designs, using computer-aided design or other tools.
  3. Prepare information regarding design, structure specifications, materials, color, equipment, estimated costs, or construction time.
  4. Consult with clients to determine functional or spatial requirements of structures.
  5. Meet with clients to review or discuss architectural drawings.
  6. Monitor the work of specialists, such as electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, interior designers, or sound specialists to ensure optimal form or function of designs or final structures.
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