Labour Market Information

Architects may practice alone or as part of small, medium, or large firms. Approximately 2,500 architects are employed in Ontario, mostly around Toronto and Ottawa. About 87% of these architects are self-employed as a principal in firms of one or two architects. Others work for architectural firms, government, real-estate developers, or large corporations. Most of these architects (94%) work full time.

Architects may specialize in contract administration, housing design, renovations or institutional buildings. They often lead teams of specialists including structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers, and must therefore have strong project and contract management abilities.

Employment in architecture is closely tied to construction activity in the residential, commercial, and institutional sectors. Currently, these sectors of the economy are performing well and are expected to remain strong over the next 5 years.

Computer-aided design (CAD) is prevalent in this profession and is being used to produce a wider choice of designs for customers. It is suggested that you contact local colleges for information on CAD courses.

Architects' salaries vary according to their levels of experience. A 2005 salary survey showed the following:

Intern and junior architects	$40,304 - $52,096
Intermediate architects	$50,029 - $57,078
Senior architects	$67,610 - $78,757
Principals	$4,768 - $123,832

 

For more information on labour market conditions see Labour Market Resources in the Contacts and Resources section of this e-Career Map. In Ontario, labour market information is available at public libraries or HRSDC Employment Resource Centres in your community.