Greater Boston continues to offer good job opportunities in architecture and interior design, both at entry level and for those with several years' experience. "There is a good amount of growth in the area in industrial and commercial work, and in municipal building," said Greg Denon, director of career services at Wentworth Institute of Technology.
Although the residential market has slowed, there is a steady stream of work in other areas, both domestically and internationally. In addition to regional jobs, Boston architectural firms are managing major projects in India, Dubai, and other global locales.
Interior design work now is mostly in office, commercial, and institutional spaces, plus some residential. For landscape architects, the many different types of projects they can pursue enable them to find work even when other construction slows.
A strong portfolio is crucial in all design fields, Denon emphasized, and said those with handson experience from internships, summer jobs, or co-op programs such as those at Wentworth usually have the best success in landing jobs. A resume is necessary, "but a portfolio speaks as a louder voice," he said.
Visit architects.org (Boston Society of Architects); asla.org (American Society of Landscape Architects).
ARCHITECTS
Average salary: $78,970
Demand: Good. Most new grads are finding work quickly, often in Boston; firms also need project managers and experienced professionals.
Qualifications: Architecture degree and three years' additional training for state exam and licensing. A master's degree is increasingly important, plus strong technical and communication skills, and internship or co-op experience.
INTERIOR DESIGNERS
Average salary: $59,640
Demand: Good. Designers are in demand for healthcare and retirement facilities; hotels, resorts and restaurants; offices and school expansions; and home remodeling projects. New trends like ergonomics and green design provide good niche markets. Competition is keen, however.
Qualifications: Bachelor's degree, formal training in design, creativity, perseverance, and a strong portfolio. Hands-on experience through internships or co-op programs is important.
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS
Average salary: $64,240
Demand: Good, but fluctuates with the economy. These professionals are in demand for planning and developing sites for cities, parks, universities, medical and retirement facilities, and office and residential complexes, as well as for historic preservation, land reclamation, and highway design and maintenance.
Qualifications: Minimum landscape architecture degree, master's preferred; exam and licensure. Knowledge of plants and materials, computer design skills, knowledge of environmental regulations, good communication skills. Internship experience a big plus.
