How to Be Architectural Structural Designer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 4, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The design of architecture and structural elements has a direct influence on the safety, stability, and longevity of a building. Poorly designed or constructed architectural and structural elements can lead to costly repairs, decreased property values, and even injuries. In order to ensure the safety and longevity of a building, architectural and structural designers must create comprehensive designs that meet all building code requirements.

designers must consider the environment, the type of construction materials, and the intended use of the building when creating their designs. By taking these factors into account, designers can produce structures that are safe, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. A bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering or construction science is typically required for entry-level positions as an architectural structural designer. Program coursework may include topics like building design and analysis, construction methods and materials, structural analysis, and computer-aided design and drafting.
Develop Technical Skills. Employers may prefer applicants who have a familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software programs, such as AutoCAD and Revit. Advanced knowledge of structural engineering principles and mathematics is also often required.
Obtain Certification. Certification is not required to become an architectural structural designer, but it can demonstrate a level of expertise in the field. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) offers certification in three specialties: Structural Design; Building Technology; and Construction Administration.
Consider Graduate Studies. Earning a graduate degree in architecture or engineering can provide aspiring architectural structural designers with advanced knowledge of building design principles, materials and fabrication methods. Additionally, earning a professional degree can help lead to advanced job opportunities and higher salaries.
Get Licensed. A license is required to practice architecture in the United States. The Architectural Registration Exam (ARE) is administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB); applicants must pass all seven divisions of the exam and complete a period of internships to become fully licensed architects.
Gain Professional Experience. Obtaining a few years of professional experience in the field may be necessary to advance in a career as an architectural structural designer. Employers may prefer applicants with prior experience working on projects involving building design, construction or engineering.

In order to be a reliable and capable Architectural Structural Designer, one must possess a combination of technical knowledge, creative problem-solving skills, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills. This requires a comprehensive understanding of building and engineering codes, principles of structural analysis, and advanced CAD/CAM technology. the ability to work efficiently in a team environment and collaboratively with other professionals is essential to success.

Finally, having the capacity to manage complex projects and adhere to strict deadlines is critical for meeting client needs and expectations. These qualities, taken together, make an architectural structural designer reliable and capable in their field.

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Job Description

Develop detailed structural designs for buildings, bridges, and other structures, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Analyze structural systems to ensure they comply with applicable codes and design specifications.
Prepare models, drawings, and other technical documents to communicate design ideas to clients and stakeholders.
Research and analyze existing structure conditions, considering factors such as site surveys, soil tests, and building materials.
Plan and coordinate construction activities with other design professionals and contractors.
Evaluate alternative structural systems to determine the most cost-effective solution.
Monitor construction progress to ensure designs are correctly implemented.
Provide technical support to architects, engineers, and other stakeholders.
Generate reports detailing structural designs and specifications for review and approval.
Develop and implement safety measures for structural projects.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of design principles and techniques
Knowledge of building codes, zoning regulations, and other legal requirements
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, and specifications
Ability to plan and organize projects efficiently
Skill in using computer-aided design and drafting (CAD) software
Ability to collaborate with other professionals such as engineers, contractors, and architects
Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and mathematical skills
Attention to detail and accuracy
Good communication skills
Understanding of construction materials and methods

Architectural Structural Designers must have a diverse range of skills to be successful in their profession. Most importantly, they must have a thorough understanding of building codes, regulations, and safety standards. They must also have strong analytical and problem solving skills in order to design structures that meet the desired functional requirements.

they must have excellent communication skills to be able to effectively coordinate with other professionals, contractors, and stakeholders. Finally, they must have good technical, drafting, and computer-aided design (CAD) skills to be able to create accurate and detailed designs. All of these skills are essential to the success of an Architectural Structural Designer, as they work to create safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing structures for their clients.

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Frequent Interview Questions

How do you stay current with changes in the field of architectural design?
What software programs do you have experience with?
Describe a project you have designed from concept to completion.
What do you consider to be the most important elements of a successful structural design?
How do you ensure that the designs you produce meet safety standards?
What methods do you use to assess and evaluate the structural integrity of a building or other structure?
How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects?
How have you managed difficult stakeholders in the past?
Describe a time when you had to think outside the box to solve a challenging structural design problem.
What techniques do you use to collaborate with other designers and engineers on projects?

Common Tools in Industry

AutoCAD. A computer-aided design (CAD) software program used for creating 2D and 3D drawings. (eg: creating plans and elevations of a building)
Revit. A Building Information Modeling (BIM) software program used for creating 3D models of buildings. (eg: creating 3D models of a skyscraper)
Structural Analysis Software. Software used to analyze the structural performance of a building or other structure. (eg: analyzing the load bearing capacity of a column)
SketchUp. A 3D modeling software program used for creating 3D models. (eg: creating a 3D model of a bridge)
Robot Structural Analysis. A structural analysis software program used for analyzing and designing structures. (eg: analyzing the seismic performance of a building)
Staad. Pro. A structural engineering software program used for designing and analyzing structures. (eg: analyzing the stability of a high-rise building)
Tekla Structures. A Building Information Modeling software program used for creating 3D models of structures. (eg: creating 3D models of a stadium roof).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
Structural Engineering Institute (SEI)
National Council of Structural Engineers Associations (NCSEA)
International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE)
American Concrete Institute (ACI)
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
The American Institute of Architects (AIA)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE)

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Common Important Terms

Building Codes. Regulatory standards for the design, construction, and maintenance of buildings and other structures.
Building Envelope. The physical barrier that separates the interior and exterior of a building, including walls, roof, windows, and doors.
Structural Analysis. The process of analyzing a structure or system to determine its stability, strength, and safety.
Building Materials. Materials used in the construction of buildings, including wood, steel, concrete, masonry, and more.
Structural Engineering. The application of engineering principles to the design and analysis of structures such as buildings and bridges.
Building Systems. Integrated systems used in the construction of buildings, such as electrical and HVAC systems.
CAD. Computer-aided design software used to create detailed drawings and models of structures.
BIM. Building information modeling software used to create 3D models of buildings and convert them into 2D drawings.
Framing. The process of constructing the skeleton of a building using wood or steel components.
Load Bearing Walls. Structural walls that support the weight of the building above them.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Architectural Structural Designer?

An Architectural Structural Designer is a professional who designs, analyzes and evaluates the structural components of buildings, including foundations, walls, columns, beams, and other elements.

What qualifications are required for an Architectural Structural Designer?

An Architectural Structural Designer typically requires a degree in architecture or engineering and specialized knowledge of structural design principles and building codes. Many states also require architects and engineers to be licensed professionals.

What type of projects do Architectural Structural Designers work on?

Architectural Structural Designers typically work on projects such as commercial buildings, stadiums, bridges, tunnels, and high-rise buildings.

What tools do Architectural Structural Designers use?

Architectural Structural Designers use a variety of tools to create their designs and evaluate structural components, such as computer-aided design (CAD) programs, structural analysis software, and various hand-held tools.