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Job outlook for junior architects in the United States
Junior architect job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected junior architect job growth rate is 3% from 2018-2028.
About 3,300 new jobs for junior architects are projected over the next decade.
Junior architect salaries have increased 7% for junior architects in the last 5 years.
There are over 29,812 junior architects currently employed in the United States.
There are 85,359 active junior architect job openings in the US.
The average junior architect salary is $60,719.
Are junior architect jobs in demand?
Junior architect job and salary trends over time
Junior architect jobs over time
Junior architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 29,812 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 29,558 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 29,601 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 29,230 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 28,770 | 0.01% |
Average junior architect salary over time
Junior architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $60,719 | $29.19 | +1.9% |
| 2024 | $59,560 | $28.63 | +1.7% |
| 2023 | $58,550 | $28.15 | +1.2% |
| 2022 | $57,879 | $27.83 | +2.0% |
| 2021 | $56,743 | $27.28 | +1.1% |
Junior architect jobs by state
Most common states for junior architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 281 | 40% |
| 2 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 164 | 22% |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 1,410 | 21% |
| 4 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,246 | 21% |
| 5 | Delaware | 961,939 | 141 | 15% |
| 6 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 1,817 | 14% |
| 7 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 784 | 14% |
| 8 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 500 | 14% |
| 9 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 186 | 14% |
| 10 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 1,405 | 13% |
| 11 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 1,292 | 13% |
| 12 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 1,187 | 13% |
| 13 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 995 | 13% |
| 14 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 717 | 13% |
| 15 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 220 | 13% |
| 16 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 134 | 13% |
| 17 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 69 | 12% |
| 18 | Texas | 28,304,596 | 3,109 | 11% |
| 19 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 1,442 | 11% |
| 20 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 902 | 11% |
Most common cities for junior architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bessemer | 1 | 4% | $61,815 |
| 2 | Arlington Heights | 2 | 3% | $56,092 |
| 3 | Annapolis | 1 | 3% | $66,966 |
| 4 | Dover | 1 | 3% | $53,954 |
| 5 | Alpharetta | 1 | 2% | $60,921 |
| 6 | Orlando | 2 | 1% | $52,312 |
| 7 | Lansing | 1 | 1% | $66,043 |
| 8 | Topeka | 1 | 1% | $62,636 |
| 9 | Boston | 2 | 0% | $67,112 |
| 10 | Chicago | 1 | 0% | $56,085 |
| 11 | Indianapolis | 1 | 0% | $57,597 |
| 12 | Los Angeles | 1 | 0% | $66,776 |
| 13 | Sacramento | 1 | 0% | $67,023 |
Junior Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of junior architect experts
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
University of Oregon
University of New Mexico
Arizona State University
Dunwoody College of Technology
Syracuse University
University of Arizona
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Seminole State College of Florida
Rochester Institute of Technology
University of California, Davis
NCARB
College of Charleston
The Pennsylvania State University
What will help Junior Architects increase their earning potential?
Paul Pettigrew AIA, NCARB, MIT M.Arch ʼ88: Salary isn’t the whole story. Recent graduates need to take into account not only salary, but housing costs, and living expenses. The salary of a young architect will go farther in Chicago than it will in New York, Boston, or San Francisco. Cities with more extensive public transportation systems might offer recent graduates the option of not owning a car which could be a significant cost savings when you factor in car purchase cost, gas, parking, insurance, and maintenance.
What Junior 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 Junior Architects increase their earning potential?
Dr. Alison Kwok PhD, RA, FAIA, LEED BD+C, CPHC: [tough question, in academia, we're prepare students to enter the profession with skills/knowledge, but really don't address the issue of how architects are paid when they start out in their careers. Perhaps first gather information such as cost of living data for the locations/cities of interest; find range of salaries for entry-level architects; talk with alums in the areas about benefits. To maximize salary potential, portfolio, cover letter, and range of experiences are key. As mentioned above, preparation to help firms to advance their mission, and be able to offer ways to help the firm get to important aspects beyond billable hours. Ask questions during the interview process about advancement and benefits.
How have salaries changed over time for Junior Architects?
Tamarah Begay: Salaries have changed a lot over the time I have spent in the Architectural Field. Minority women are now getting the recognition that they deserve in a field that has predominantly been ruled by non-minority males, and although it still is not equal, we have gained admission to higher compensation than we used to receive.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Architect job market given the pandemic?
Tamarah Begay: One of the largest trends in the job market given the pandemic is the usage of different online and virtual platforms for interviews and meetings. Not only are these platforms being used to communicate ideas and design but to connect and link professionals to job seekers. This has allowed the industry to have shifted to predominantly working remotely. There has also been a rise and increase in anti-microbial materials, space planning, and incorporating a cleaner HVAC and air quality system into buildings. This can include using hard surface floors and furniture without fabrics to allow for ease of cleaning and to help reduce the spread of germs and incorporating specialty air filters or lights. The industry has also seen an increase in wanting to incorporate outdoor spaces within designs.
How have salaries changed over time for Junior Architects?
Marc Neveu Ph.D.: I was first hired into an architecture office over 25 years ago, so I can say with some confidence, that salaries have gone up! Many offices, however, are very different than when I graduated. Not all, but many are much more integrated with other disciplines. There is an incredible group of firms in the valley, like Construction Zone, who do both design and construction. Others, like Ryan Companies, are integrated from Development through Facilities Management. By owning more of the entire process, rather than just the design, firms are able to generate more revenue. As a student graduating today, I would be better position to have an architecture degree plus an additional credential - in construction management, real estate development, or even sustainability. In this way, you can leverage your position in an office to be more valuable.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Architect job market given the pandemic?
Marc Neveu Ph.D.: The pandemic has had an interesting effect. At first, everyone froze and thought all work was going to stop. We are a year in and many firms are as busy as they were a year ago. Still, it is different for different markets, and there is some caution about projects scheduled a year from now. That said, money is relatively cheap at the moment and that is good for construction.
What technical skills for a Junior Architect stand out to employers?
Marc Neveu Ph.D.: Here is a baseline of technical skills, usually related to the software used in the office, but software changes. I was in a conversation recently with Christiana Moss, who is a partner at Studio Ma, and she had a great quote. She needed recent graduates "who could be useful." This meant being able to think on their own, to ask questions, and to be able to take on a project without the need to be told how to do everything. We don't expect graduates to know everything they need to know to build a building, but they should be aware of what they don't know and be able to ask good questions, work collaboratively, and also independently.
Anonymous Professor
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Junior Architects?
Anonymous Professor : With regard to student graduates with the license issue and their potential, it's all about and their ability to think ... my contacts tell me that they want people who can look outside the box ... and be flexible to change ... and make no mistake about it ... the future is all about a willingness to change and be flexible to change. Professional license requirements is a think of the past ... it's all about what you can do now.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Architects?
Paul Strother: We are hopeful that we will not see any long-term impact on our graduates due to the pandemic. That being said, we know that some students have struggled with the added stress of COVID-19, and others with managing online education, leading them to withdraw from school. And we know that students who choose not to finish their degree carry the long-term effects of a disrupted education.
What type of skills will young Junior Architects need?
Paul Strother: For students earning their A.A.S. in Architectural Drafting & Design, the skills they are currently learning will be critical to their future success. Not only should students master Revit, but they also need the ability to quickly learn other software. They need an understanding of the principles of construction and building systems, and they need to know the role of the architect and its companion players, such as contractors, consultants and owners. Understanding regulatory elements will also continue to be key skill sets. At the core, when they leave Dunwoody, they must be ready to continue learning new systems, software and regulations, and possess the fundamental skill of good communication. This past year has also taught students to be flexible, and exposed them to new ways of communicating and doing business, which are critical skills as they enter today's workforce.
What experience really stands out on Junior Architect resumes?
Paul Strother: Dunwoody focuses on ensuring our students are learning the skills employers need. Because of that, students are ready for a part-time office job even before they graduate. Dunwoody structures the program and its class schedule in a way that allows for part-time positions, and provides students with the right software and a grasp of the building systems they're working with. We know that a recent graduate with the right skills, along with some experience on their resume, will be hired first after graduation.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Architects?
Kristen DeWolf: The class of 2021 will be in a highly competitive hiring situation. Not only will they have their peers to compete against for jobs, but also those who were laid-off or furloughed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. It will be imperative for the graduates to prove they are the 'right' candidate. At the same time, this class has had to jump into flexibility mode to be successful as classes, club meetings, and even internships went virtual. They have already proven they are quick to adapt to the changing nature of work.
What's a good job out of college for Junior Architects?
Kristen DeWolf: We are encouraging students to keep their options open. Any position that will add soft and/or hard skills to your resume is a great job to consider after college. Showing the value they provide will only help them as they continue to build their careers.
What technical skills for a Junior Architect stand out to employers?
Kristen DeWolf: This is certainly highly dependent upon the industry the employer is in/type of work being done; however, MSExcel is one of the key skills that I hear over and over again from employers across many industries. Researching the employer/industry and understanding the technologies most used (and learning those programs if you don't already) is a great way for a candidate to stand out. There are plenty of opportunities to learn technical skills on sites such as LinkedIn Learning. When a candidate can show they're paying attention and have learned the skills to hit the ground running, the more valuable they will be as a candidate.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Junior Architect job market given the pandemic?
Teresa Rosano: We've found that the residential market is active, largely because people are spending more time in their homes and using them differently. Re-thinking the assumption that everyone goes to an office five days a week is likely to open possibilities for geographic flexibility.
What Junior Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Teresa Rosano: Learning software is always a good option, and there are often less expensive community college or on-line tutorials to support that. Or taking one or more transferable community college general education classes to lighten the load in subsequent semesters (make sure they transfer though!)
What general advice would you give to a Junior Architect?
Teresa Rosano: Try to obtain a wide variety of experiences so you have exposure to many aspects of the profession.
Michael Brazley Ph.D.
Associate Professor of ArchitectureSouthern Illinois University Carbondale
School of Architecture
What general advice would you give to a Junior Architect?
Michael Brazley Ph.D.: Work experience in an architect's office is best.
Christy Graves
Professor/Program ManagerSeminole State College of Florida
School of Engineering, Design and Construction
What general advice would you give to a Junior Architect?
Christy Graves: I would advise the graduate to learn from everyone they work with within the workplace environment. Even though a degree in architectural engineering technology is valuable, it's impossible to learn everything you need to know to be successful in the industry by taking classes in school and earning a degree. Do not be afraid to ask others for help when you aren't sure about the task you've been assigned to do. In addition, keep up with new technology. Remember, learning should be a lifetime pursuit. It shouldn't end with earning a degree.
What Junior Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Christy Graves: I'd suggest trying to get part-time work to enhance the skills that were taught while going to school. Students should contact the career development center at their respective schools for part-time work opportunities.
Clyde Eiríkur Hull
Professor of Strategic ManagementRochester Institute of Technology
Saunders College of Business
How do you envision technology impacting Junior Architects in the next 5 years?
Clyde Eiríkur Hull: Architecture is being hit with virtual reality and augmented reality. Anything you can design now can be built in virtual reality for modeling. But the trend toward digital work is going to impact architectural designs for a long time to come. How will future homes be designed when many residents plan to work from home? How will professional buildings be impacted? Those are questions that architects are answering right now.
What type of skills will young Junior Architects need?
A. Haven Kiers: While technological competency and hands-on experience will always be in demand within the profession of landscape architecture, more than any technical skills, young graduates will need a positive attitude and the drive to succeed. Because of the pandemic, employers are looking for graduates willing to take the initiative and tackle new projects with confidence and self-sufficiency.
New employees should be willing to take risks, be adaptable, and execute every task they are given to the very best of their abilities (even the boring ones). When faced with a design problem, they need to be able to think creatively, establish a good rapport with the client or community, test (and retest) a range of solutions, and to be able to do so with elegance and style. Technical skills can be learned on the job - the right attitude cannot.
What type of skills will young Junior 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.
What experience really stands out on Junior Architect resumes?
Dr. Barry Stiefel Ph.D.: A substantial and diversified background (such as internships, course work, relevant volunteer activities) in the student's professional field is worth pursuing.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Junior Architects?
Ross Weinreb: Hard to tell right now. It 100% impacted internships during the summer. This will inevitably cause a ripple-effect for most students who will now have a gap in their experience when applying for future internships or job opportunities. The 'good' part is that everyone will be in the same boat, so it shouldn't affect hiring. It'll be about "what did you do during the pandemic to increase your professional experience and/or skills." I don't think this will have an enduring impact on graduates as our industry has had several ups and downs in relation to economic trends.