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Job outlook for systems architects in the United States
Systems architect job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected systems architect job growth rate is 5% from 2018-2028.
About 18,200 new jobs for systems architects are projected over the next decade.
Systems architect salaries have increased 10% for systems architects in the last 5 years.
There are over 46,703 systems architects currently employed in the United States.
There are 232,582 active systems architect job openings in the US.
The average systems architect salary is $103,764.
Are systems architect jobs in demand?
Systems architect job and salary trends over time
Systems architect jobs over time
Systems architect job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 46,703 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 50,351 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 51,864 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 20,581 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 19,337 | 0.01% |
Average systems architect salary over time
Systems architect salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $103,764 | $49.89 | +3.4% |
| 2024 | $100,345 | $48.24 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $98,073 | $47.15 | +2.0% |
| 2022 | $96,161 | $46.23 | +2.3% |
| 2021 | $93,988 | $45.19 | +1.5% |
Systems architect jobs by state
Most common states for systems architects
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 1,040 | 150% |
| 2 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 421 | 40% |
| 3 | Vermont | 623,657 | 250 | 40% |
| 4 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 3,319 | 39% |
| 5 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 2,586 | 38% |
| 6 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 272 | 36% |
| 7 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 1,443 | 35% |
| 8 | Delaware | 961,939 | 337 | 35% |
| 9 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 2,432 | 33% |
| 10 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 1,934 | 32% |
| 11 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 953 | 31% |
| 12 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 420 | 31% |
| 13 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 1,689 | 30% |
| 14 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 1,633 | 29% |
| 15 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 1,022 | 28% |
| 16 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 164 | 28% |
| 17 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 3,456 | 27% |
| 18 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 2,817 | 27% |
| 19 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 280 | 27% |
| 20 | Alaska | 739,795 | 201 | 27% |
Most common cities for systems architects
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cupertino | 16 | 26% | $123,865 |
| 2 | Littleton | 9 | 19% | $94,446 |
| 3 | Annapolis | 7 | 18% | $109,156 |
| 4 | Mountain View | 9 | 11% | $123,828 |
| 5 | West Des Moines | 7 | 11% | $83,640 |
| 6 | Chandler | 8 | 3% | $96,743 |
| 7 | Baton Rouge | 6 | 3% | $83,180 |
| 8 | Des Moines | 6 | 3% | $83,697 |
| 9 | Denver | 15 | 2% | $94,364 |
| 10 | Boston | 11 | 2% | $101,607 |
| 11 | Atlanta | 8 | 2% | $92,358 |
| 12 | Sacramento | 8 | 2% | $120,846 |
| 13 | San Francisco | 13 | 1% | $123,589 |
| 14 | Washington | 10 | 1% | $108,123 |
| 15 | San Diego | 9 | 1% | $114,688 |
| 16 | Austin | 6 | 1% | $93,847 |
| 17 | Phoenix | 7 | 0% | $96,906 |
Systems Architect job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of systems architect experts
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
University of South Alabama
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
University of Florida
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
SUNY at Buffalo
University of Nevada - Las Vegas
University of Oregon
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Mount St. Joseph University
University Of Nevada, Las Vegas
University Of Nevada, Las Vegas
University of Idaho
University of Hawaii at Hilo
University of Minnesota - Crookston
Gannon University
University of New Mexico
Arizona State University
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 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 Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: We typically advise our student to pursue internship as soon as the summer after sophomore year so they can get experience in different sub-areas of architectural engineering that would allow them to get a better understanding of the careers they could pursue with their degree. This typically results in an offer for full employment early in senior year – at least for our students
What will help Systems Architects increase their earning potential?
Dr. Steven Van Dessel Ph.D. Assoc. AIA: Starting salary is something they can/should consider – but it is often better for recent graduates to understand the growth potential with a particular employer/firm and understand what other benefits exist. We tell them to ask questions about the typical promotion steps within an organization, for example. Students that have taken the FE exam should highlight that – and ask questions in the interview about what mentoring there is within a firm to take the PE exam – it shows a positive level of professional attitude. Our students work for architects, engineering consultancy, contractors, etc. I think Bankrate listed AE as the most rewarding degree a few years ago – and one of the items listed was the diversity of office and fieldwork that makes employment enjoyable (i.e. not stuck in their office all week)
What general advice would you give to a Systems Architect?
Sean Walker: Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are going to be incredibly important in Systems Engineering over the next 3-5 years. MBSE has already become quintessential to the practice of Systems Engineering, which is why it has become a staple of our Master's and Doctoral programs. AI, of course, is changing almost every technical field and will be important to Systems Engineers as well. For Systems Engineers, the challenge will be understanding how and when to apply AI to solve systemic problems. Of course, both of these elements must be applied with an understanding of sociotechnical systems concerns. An engineer with the skills to apply MBSE and AI without losing sight of the humans in the system will be highly sought after.
What general advice would you give to a Systems Architect?
Rebecca Dolgas: 2. The ability to implement VR, AR, and AI capabilities. Clients are coming to expect photorealistic renderings and to be able to walk through their space virtually. Having the skill set to implement these tools will be crucial in keeping clients informed and pleased with your work.
What Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Rebecca Dolgas: 3. Be aware of your strengths and don't be afraid to negotiate. If you have multi-faceted skillsets make sure they are known. For example if you do well maintaining your own social media make a point that you would like to assist with marketing in a smaller firm. A great Marywood specific example is how closely interiors and architecture learn together. Being able to have a collaborative spirit and bring both disciplines together can be invaluable. If you can show your interdisciplinary skill set, it will make you more valuable and thus able to negotiate for a better salary.
What will help Systems Architects increase their earning potential?
Rebecca Dolgas: 1. Pay attention to firm culture and benefits. You will be working long hours and closely with your team, you want to make sure these are people you could see yourself being comfortable around. In particular when it comes to mistakes. Most people take a little bit to adjust to their job. The first few months will be hard and you WILL mess up, that's okay just make sure that you are working for and with people who will help you to make corrections and continue to grow. Along the lines of growth, see what support systems they have for licensure. Testing is a time consuming and expensive process and many firms will help to cover these costs and the required time off, just be sure to ask.
Heath Pickerill PhD
Assistant Teaching ProfessorMissouri University of Science and Technology
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Systems Architect?
Heath Pickerill PhD: Explore various career choices within the field of architectural engineering during your time in school through internships and/or co-ops, which provide hands-on learning and insight into the countless career opportunities within the field.
What Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Heath Pickerill PhD: Being competent in CAD software, especially 3D modeling such as Revit, as well as demonstrating strong project management skills, which can be honed through leadership opportunities in professional organizations and design teams. Graduates should also understand the ethical implications and limitations of AI software in the production of written documents and basic design solutions.
What will help Systems Architects increase their earning potential?
Heath Pickerill PhD: By boosting your resume through participation in professional organizations and design teams within the field, as well as diverse work experience with on-the-job training through internships and co-ops.
What general advice would you give to a Systems Architect?
Paul Pettigrew AIA, NCARB, MIT M.Arch ʼ88: I think it’s a great time to be an architect. When numbers like close to 40% of the earth’s global carbon emissions are related to buildings being torn down, buildings being built, and operation of buildings, there’s no doubt that architects will be key players in future efforts to sustain the long term health of planet earth.
What Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Paul Pettigrew AIA, NCARB, MIT M.Arch ʼ88: Adaptability, the ability and desire to constantly learn new tools, techniques, business practices, and construction technologies/methodologies. The architecture profession has changed dramatically since the introduction of computers into practice, and all indications are that architectural practice will continue to change as computers, fabrication machines that talk to and work with computers, and technologies related to issues of sustainability, continue to adapt to the economics, business, practice, and significance of the architecture profession.
What will help Systems 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 general advice would you give to a 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 Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Martin Gold FAIA: The economy is historically dynamic and the field of architecture generally follows the economy so there are highs and lows. That said, there is always work in urban planning, historic preservation, adaptive reuse of buildings, and the need for new buildings. At the time of this writing, there is a trend to transform office buildings into residential uses as people work remotely much more often. This would be akin to the transformation of warehouse spaces into residential lofts in urban areas around the US in the 1990’s as manufacturing and shipping ports moved out of urban areas of the city. In the foreseeable future, there will always be a need for architects and associated professions to continue to improve on the constructed world in which we live.
What will help Systems Architects increase their earning potential?
Martin Gold FAIA: Entering the field, architecture interns might find themselves in large firms working with project teams typically working with project architects, engineers, and clients to develop designs and translate them into drawings for permitting and construction. In some larger firms, there are expertise teams that work on specific building types such as housing, retail, warehouses, courthouses, supermarkets or restaurants. In smaller firms, they may be working directly with principal architects on projects. In both cases, interns would be attending client meetings, crafting drawings using one of the many computer drafting programs, and perhaps doing materials research and detailing the connections of various building systems. As interns gain experience, and perhaps secure their professional license, they move to become team leaders, partners, or perhaps start their own firms.
What general advice would you give to a Systems Architect?
Grant Mosey Ph.D.: The path to salary maximization often seems to be a willingness to advocate on one's own behalf and be willing to move firms if necessary. Early career professionals may want to also think about where they are building their expertise. It is likely that architects who work on healthcare or multifamily housing are more likely to have abundant work in the future than those who work on places of religious worship or primary schools. The region in which one chooses to work and make connections can also be important. It never hurts to have a 'name brand' firm on one's resume early in one's career.
What 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 will help Systems Architects increase their earning potential?
Alfredo Fernandez-Gonzalez: In addition to mastering the skills that will become more important in the next 3-5 years, committing to work long hours and becoming credentialed in LEED, WELL, and/or other building performance standards is a way to quickly increase your worth for a firm. However, in the long run, working towards becoming a licensed architect is the best way to advance in the profession.
What general advice would you give to a Systems Architect?
Dr. Alison Kwok PhD, RA, FAIA, LEED BD+C, CPHC: Diversify your experiences (and expectations); gain knowledge in a variety of different areas and certifications. Curate your portfolio to show a range of the kinds of work that you're able to offer. Get out of the comfort zone of doing only what you know "how to do" and challenge with incremental bits of knowledge.
What Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Alison Kwok PhD, RA, FAIA, LEED BD+C, CPHC: Because of the urgent need to address climate challenges in energy, materials, water, ecosystems, fire and so on, one person cannot do it all. Gone are the days of the "starchitect". What's most important is learning ways of collaboration, communicating, and team building; energy modeling at small and large holistic scales; life cycle accounting for materials.
What will help Systems 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.
What will help Systems Architects increase their earning potential?
Ahmed Imteaj PH.D.: Research Salary Trends: Before entering the job market, research salary trends for entry-level positions in your field and location. Websites like Glassdoor, PayScale, and LinkedIn Salary can provide valuable insights into typical salary ranges for different roles.
Acquire In-Demand Skills: Identify in-demand skills and technologies in your field and focus on acquiring them through coursework, certifications, internships, or personal projects. Skills such as machine learning, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data science are highly valued and can command higher salaries.
Gain Relevant Experience: Prioritize gaining relevant experience through internships, co-op programs, part-time jobs, or freelance projects. Practical experience can significantly increase your market value and make you more attractive to employers.Customize Your Resume and Cover Letter: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements that align with the job requirements. Highlighting your unique qualifications can increase your chances of landing interviews and negotiating a higher salary.
Prepare for Salary Negotiations: Before entering salary negotiations, research the typical salary range for the position and location, considering factors such as cost of living and industry standards. Practice articulating your value proposition and be prepared to negotiate confidently for a salary that reflects your skills, experience, and market value.
Consider Additional Benefits: In addition to salary, consider other benefits and perks offered by employers, such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities, and bonuses. These benefits can add significant value to your overall compensation package.
Rebecca Allen
Mount St. Joseph University
Special Education And Teaching
What general advice would you give to a Systems Architect?
Rebecca Allen: AI, for sure. I have heard it said that AI might not replace humans, rather humans who know how to use AI well may replace humans who don't.
Dak Kopec Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Coordinator, BA Interior Architecture and Design and Master of Design ProgramUniversity Of Nevada, Las Vegas
School of Architecture
What skills stand out on Systems Architect resumes?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Having an area of expertise beyond the common skills that most graduates possess. Many firms are looking for those promotable employees, and these folks often speak with a high degree of intelligence about one or more aspects of design. I see that those with added skills in Health, Education, Sustainability, Technology, etc., often lead those departments in the firm, which becomes their mobility path to executive management. It's all about having something different or better than your competitors.
What soft skills should all Systems Architects possess?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Flexibility in thinking and the ability to understand other people's perspectives. Basically, to get along as a team while keeping the negativity to a minimum.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Systems Architects?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Revit and CAD. Especially as these relate to performative design. What I mean by performative design are technologically feature-rich buildings to respond to atmospheric and environmental conditions that support human occupation and productivity.
What skills will help Systems Architects earn the most?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: I don't think it's a skill as much as a specialization. Suppose a student wants to work in health design (for example). In that case, they will need to know the language that health practitioners use, or they risk saying something incorrectly and losing credibility. All sectors of society have words and acronyms that they use in everyday communication. If an architect, landscape architect, or interior designer has a specialization and can carry on a thoughtful conversation with the decision-makers of that industry (commercial, education, health, etc.), they will be valuable to that firm. The key is having a strong baseline knowledge in the area that a building type is being designed or redesigned for.
Dak Kopec Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Coordinator, BA Interior Architecture and Design and Master of Design ProgramUniversity Of Nevada, Las Vegas
School of Architecture
What experience really stands out on Systems Architect resumes?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Experience in the areas where one intends to practice. If someone wants to work in hospitality design, an employer will see what kind of experience they have. This is why selecting one's internship location is so important.
Many employers are also looking to see how well the Interior Designer can think outside the box and develop innovative design ideas.
An area of specialized knowledge that will complement the existing design team. Most firms are looking for future leaders.
What Systems Architect skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: Design thinking. This can be done by looking for certificates or attending a series of seminars. The COVID-19 virus has opened up numerous opportunities to shape an Interior Designer's scope. Using Design Thinking as a means to solve problems will enhance a person's marketability.
Additionally, I would recommend learning about disease transmission and pathology. With a stronger foundation in these areas, the interior designer will be better equipped to address the infection control expectations that will likely be required of future Interior Designers.
What technology do you think will become more important and prevalent for Systems Architects in the next 3-5 years?
Dak Kopec Ph.D.: COVID-19 has changed the playing field, and future skills will need to include creative ways to use materials and systems for enhanced infection control. This will consist of thinking differently about ventilation systems, space planning, and material specifications.
Randall Randall
Program Head Architecture, ProfessorUniversity of Idaho
Architecture Department
What skills stand out on Systems Architect resumes?
Randall Randall: Diversity of creative work demonstrated in a portfolio.
What soft skills should all Systems Architects possess?
Randall Randall: Communication skills (both disciplinary and interpersonal); strong work ethic; reliability.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Systems Architects?
Randall Randall: Adept with hand-drawing, model making, CAD, and graphics software (photoshop, illustrator). Experience with some kind of hands-on-making/construction is a plus.
What skills will help Systems Architects earn the most?
Randall Randall: Strength in all of the above, i.e., being the "whole package."
Travis Mandel Ph.D.
Assistant ProfessorUniversity of Hawaii at Hilo
Department of Computer Science
What soft skills should all Systems Architects possess?
Travis Mandel Ph.D.: Although computer science seems like a highly technical field, soft skills are really what differentiates software engineers. One of the most important qualities of any software engineer is explaining their code clearly at various levels of technical depth and explaining why certain design decisions were made. You could write code that does amazing things, but if that code consists of snippets you pasted from StackOverflow without really fully understanding them, it will be a huge headache for anyone who needs to come into the codebase later and maintain or update it.
Another one is asking the right questions. Imagine you are dropped into a huge codebase and asked to add a new feature (very common!). There's no time to understand everything that is going on, but on the other hand, you need to understand enough of the code to do your task effectively, which involves asking questions. A failure to ask questions will likely result in you wasting a huge amount of time working on something that is ultimately not useful, for instance, re-implementing a complex function that already exists somewhere in the codebase.
What skills will help Systems Architects earn the most?
Travis Mandel Ph.D.: Solid foundational skills in data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Even if you are not an AI researcher or machine learning engineer, with AI becoming so pervasive, chances are your code will have to interact with it at some point. Although listing many of the latest technologies (Tensorflow/Keras, Pytorch) looks great on a resume, what is even more valuable is a solid grasp of the fundamentals that transcend specific libraries. Employers will be impressed by someone who can analyze large data sets in languages like Python, communicate effectively with the machine learning teams, and identify new potential ways to integrate machine learning into the product. This is a highly in-demand skillset that can easily help unlock higher-paying positions.
Christine Bakke
LecturerUniversity of Minnesota - Crookston
Math, Science & Technology Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Systems Architect job market given the pandemic?
Christine Bakke: For many years remote tech support has been a growing field, but it was not the norm. Today, remote tech support and IT management have become crucial for daily operations. Remote work requires a solid IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, capable equipment, and quality software. The need for educated and experienced MIS / ITM / CIS will continue to increase.
Trends toward remote offices will become more acceptable and common; while some companies will return to the office en masse, others will allow more flexibility or become hybrid, and some will truly embrace the remote office. Use of remote tools such as Zoom will stay strong, as they provide global access at a huge cost benefit.
How do you envision technology impacting Systems Architects in the next 5 years?
Dr. Stephen Frezza Ph.D.: Breadth and depth: Computing is becoming more like engineering; where the value of the product, its lifetime risks, costs, and benefits are more critical than just it's roll-out. So the engineering competencies that have always been a part of computing will become more central. Computing is also expanding; the role of data and the shift of once-research technologies (like machine learning) into production applications will continue to require computing graduates to broaden their base and continue as learners. This will cause shifts in what is considered 'fundamental' and the need for professionals to continue to hone and redevelop their technical skill sets.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Systems Architects to find work opportunities?
Dr. Stephen Frezza Ph.D.: Computing is ubiquitous, and with more industries moving to remote work, location is becoming less critical. If the internet reaches a place reliably, computing jobs can be located there.
How have salaries changed over time for Systems 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 Systems 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.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Systems Architects?
Tamarah Begay: Certifications and licenses that can be locally, nationally, and universally applicable are most impactful for a future job prospect to have. Being a licensed Architect and having or being LEED certified is of great impact for job prospects on all levels. Staying up to date on continuing education courses and staying knowledgeable about new products or methods should be a habitual update to one's personal knowledge bank. Bringing versatility and diversity to the work place in any form, whether it is through licenses or courses, is beneficial and can have a great impact.
How have salaries changed over time for Systems 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 Systems 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 Systems 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.