Architect Resume Example & Writing Guide
Use this Architect resume example and guide to improve your career and write a powerful resume that will separate you from the competition.
An architect is someone who designs buildings and spaces, planning out everything from the layout of rooms to the materials used in construction. Architects are highly skilled professionals who must possess a unique combination of creativity, precision, and technical know-how. And while there are different types of architects who specialize in different areas of design, they all share a passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces that people love.
If you’re interested in becoming an architect but aren’t sure where to start your job search, here are some tips and an example resume to help you write an architect resume that hiring managers will love.
How to Write an Architect Resume
Here’s how to write an architect resume of your own.
Write Compelling Bullet Points
Bullet points are the most effective way to showcase your experience and qualifications. But rather than simply listing your responsibilities, you can make your bullet points much more interesting and compelling by using specific numbers and statistics.
For example, rather than saying you “managed project budgets,” you could say that you “managed project budgets of $1 million+ on 10+ projects simultaneously, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery of all projects.”
The second bullet point is much more specific and provides a clear sense of the scale and complexity of the project. It also provides a quantifiable result—on-time and on-budget delivery of all projects—which is always a good thing!
Related: What Is an Architect? How to Become One
Identify and Include Relevant Keywords
When you apply for a job as an architect, your resume is usually scanned by an applicant tracking system (ATS) for certain keywords. If your resume doesn’t include enough of the right terms, the ATS might disqualify you from the pool of candidates.
One way to make sure your resume makes it past the ATS is to include relevant keywords throughout all sections of your document. Here are some common architect keywords to get you started:
- Architecture
- AutoCAD
- Revit
- Architectural Design
- Autodesk Maya
- Architecture Engineering
- 3D Modeling
- Construction
- Adobe Photoshop
- SketchUp
- Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
- Construction Management
- Construction Drawings
- Sketching
- Adobe InDesign
- Concept Design
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Urban Design
- Interior Design
- Urban Planning
- AutoCAD Architecture
- Project Planning
- Teamwork
- Construction Drawings
- Contract Management
- Submittals
- Project Management
- Landscape Architecture
- Leadership
Showcase Your Technical Skills
As an architect, you rely on specific programs, systems, and tools to perform your job. That’s why it’s essential to list your technical skills prominently on your resume. By doing so, you’ll show that you’re a valuable candidate who is familiar with the essential tools and systems used in your field.
Recruiters are looking for architects who are proficient in specific software programs, such as AutoCAD and Revit. They also want to see that you have experience with specific systems and methodologies, such as BIM and Green Building. So be sure to list all of your relevant technical skills prominently on your resume.
Related: How Much Does an Architect Make?
Remember The Basics
As you write your resume, it’s important to keep a few basic rules in mind.
Create Scannable Sections
There are a few things you can do to make your resume easier to read and understand quickly. Aligning everything to the left, using a standard font type and size, and keeping bullets under 2 lines will help make your resume more skimmable. You should also try to leave some white space on the page to help the recruiter easily scan through your information.
Be Concise
There is no set length for a resume, but it is typically best to keep it concise and to the point. For recent graduates or those with less than five to eight years of professional experience, a one-page resume is ideal. If you have more experience than that, you can make a two-page resume, but make sure to focus on the most relevant and recent experience. In general, you want to be succinct and get your point across quickly.
Proofread
Proofreading your resume is important in order to make sure it looks professional and error-free. Spell checking is a must, as are punctuation and grammar checks. It is also helpful to have someone else proofread your resume for you, as they may catch mistakes that you have missed. Beware of easily confused words, and make sure that your tense is consistent throughout the resume.
Consider Including a Summary
When it comes to resume writing, a resume summary statement can be a great way to introduce yourself to a potential employer. A well-crafted summary can help to explain your background, highlight your skills, and showcase your intentions. If you’re looking to transition into a new field or are targeting a specific role, a summary can be a great way to show how your experience will translate. Keep your summary short and simple, and be sure to tailor it to the specific job you’re applying for.
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