A report by a global recruiting company reveals that the architecture jobs market shows greater consistency with several architectural practices and builders requiring additional staff. Hays’ report covers trends for the July to September 2015 period.
The big shift in the residential market has led to more work for architectural practices working within the multi-unit residential and high-end residential segments. That employers are seeking to hire permanent staff instead of temporary workers is a positive trend, according to the report. This is because architectural firms are looking to retain employees with specific experience in Revit or multi-unit residential projects.
However, the increase in architectural work is also leading to a shortage of quality candidates, making it more challenging for practices that want to recruit on a temporary basis. Mid-level candidates are also in demand with many firms considering succession planning.
In terms of skills in demand for the July to September 2015 quarter, Revit drafters, architects and interior designers with proficiency in Revit and Building Information Modelling software are highly sought, especially those with commercial and multi-residential project experience.
High-end Residential Design Architects with experience in one-off high-end housing ($2 to $10 million) are also in strong demand. With many new projects in their initial stages, Design Architects are needed to work on front-end design. However, most graduates specialise as Project Architects, leading to a shortage of Design Architects.
Mid-level Project Architects who can manage projects, are adaptable and have CAD software skills are also highly sought after for multi-unit residential projects.
Candidate trends indicate job seekers are becoming more selective about their options. For instance, if they have experience using Revit, they don't want to go back to using AutoCAD.
Candidates are receiving counter offers as organisations focus on retaining their staff.
