Explore jobs
Find specific jobs
Explore careers
Explore professions
Best companies
Explore companies
Job outlook for computer systems architects in the United States
Are computer systems architect jobs in demand?
Computer systems architect job and salary trends over time
Computer systems architect jobs over time
Computer systems architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 150 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 141 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 269 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 48 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 49 | 0.00% |
Average computer systems architect salary over time
Computer systems architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $83,727 | $40.25 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $80,968 | $38.93 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $79,135 | $38.05 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $78,219 | $37.61 | +1.8% |
| 2021 | $76,869 | $36.96 | +2.4% |
Computer systems architect jobs by state
Most common states for computer systems architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 323 | 47% |
| 2 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 276 | 37% |
| 3 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 407 | 30% |
| 4 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,715 | 28% |
| 5 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 164 | 28% |
| 6 | Delaware | 961,939 | 257 | 27% |
| 7 | Alaska | 739,795 | 200 | 27% |
| 8 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 1,851 | 25% |
| 9 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,392 | 25% |
| 10 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 247 | 24% |
| 11 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 211 | 24% |
| 12 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 828 | 23% |
| 13 | New Mexico | 2,088,070 | 483 | 23% |
| 14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 446 | 23% |
| 15 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 375 | 22% |
| 16 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 2,669 | 21% |
| 17 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 2,193 | 21% |
| 18 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 2,114 | 21% |
| 19 | Vermont | 623,657 | 131 | 21% |
| 20 | Arizona | 7,016,270 | 1,418 | 20% |
Most common cities for computer systems architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Livermore | 2 | 2% | $139,080 |
| 2 | Pittsburgh | 2 | 1% | $75,348 |
| 3 | Huntsville | 1 | 1% | $83,290 |
| 4 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $72,894 |
Computer Systems Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of computer systems architect experts
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
University of Florida
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
SUNY at Buffalo
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
NCARB
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA
Associate Professor, Director Architectural Engineering ProgramWorcester Polytechnic Institute
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Computer Systems Architect?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Employers always stress the importance of students knowing the fundamentals of engineering and the integration of engineering fundamentals with architectural design. Our program is quite unique in this respect as we are the only degree program in the country where students can earn an architectural engineering degree that is ABET accredited (they can get their PE) - and then also can gain their NAAB accredited architecture degree with one additional year (allowing them to also become architects). Knowledge of building information modeling is required, and I would think that AI at some point will also play a role when combined with advanced surveying technologies.
What general advice would you give to a Computer Systems Architect?
Martin Gold FAIA: The most widespread complaint from people in the field is that it consumes ones attention, requires long hours, and relative to other professions, such as medicine, law, accounting, or engineering, the pay is lower on a per hour basis. On the other hand, architecture is more of an art than other professions and offers opportunities for creative people to have prosperous careers. The famous French architect Le Corbusier would say, architecture is a way of life.
What Computer Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: I would advise architecture students to be as flexible as possible. While NAAB accredited schools award 6,000 to 7,000 professional degrees per year, NCARB states that fewer than 3,500 architects reach licensure each year. This suggests that many of those educated as architects are actually finding work in allied subjects. I know of many graduates who are set to become architects who end up becoming real estate professionals, construction professionals, policy-makers, academics, and more. Even for those dead set on architectural practice, these opportunities in adjacent fields can open doors to more design-focused practice.
What will help Computer Systems Architects increase their earning potential?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling software like Revit is already all but a requirement to find professional work. Increasingly, firms are also looking for those who are capable of using visual programming like Grasshopper or Dynamo not only to generate forms but to optimize their workflow. In addition to those, professionals should familiarize themselves with modeling programs including SketchUp and Rhino and visualization platforms like VRay, Enscape, and Twin Motion. Soft skills like being personable and being able to present ideas extemporaneously will never go out of style.
What general advice would you give to a Computer Systems Architect?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Adaptability will always be an important skill. There will be software improvements and changes that you need to stay aware of and technology that will benefit both the design and construction sides of the industry. Communication will remain an important part of the way we work together in teams.
What Computer Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Architecture licensure will help maximize salary potential, as well as pursuing other certifications such as LEED, CPHC, WELL, etc. Be your own advocate and request regular/annual reviews that allow you to highlight accomplishments and value you bring to your employer. If specialization appeals to you, there are opportunities to market yourself as an expert in a specific subject area.
What will help Computer Systems Architects increase their earning potential?
Elaine Chow AIA, RA, NCARB: Continue being a student throughout your career since learning never stops, especially in architecture where the knowledge is vast and first-hand experience is valuable. There are many facets to the architecture profession, when first graduating try to explore different roles to see what interests you and challenges you best.
What general advice would you give to a Computer Systems Architect?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: It is important for recent graduates to recognize that Architecture is no longer limited to the physical realm, as transformative technologies are providing interesting career opportunities in the digital realm as well. This rapidly evolving context offers many opportunities and new directions for the discipline and remaining (or becoming!) current in new developments in computing power, digital visuals, manufacturing technologies, and robotics, are ways in which a recent graduate can secure a good paying job.
What Computer Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: Globally, there is significant demand for architects who are facile in the use of transformative technologies that support designers to generate and evaluate innovative ideas to provide solutions in a rapidly changing environment. Needless to say, being extremely competent in the many applications of Building Information Modeling (BIM), Extended Reality (XR), Generative Design, and Sustainability, will make new graduates effective at a time in which the profession and the world are rapidly transforming.
What type of skills will young Computer Systems Architects need?
Michael Armstrong: In most states, students interested in becoming architects will need to graduate from a NAAB-accredited program, earn experience through the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®), and pass the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®). These programs ensure young graduates earn knowledge and skills in a wide range of areas—like working with clients, determining project schedules, reviewing building codes and regulations, and establishing sustainability goals—and set them up for a successful career in architecture. For specific state requirements, explore our Licensing Requirements Tool.
We also encourage graduates, and all who are considering the licensed practice as a career, to explore our newly-launched Destination Architect site, an interactive guide with video tutorials and useful tips.