Architectural Technicians create drawings and make models of building structures, research construction materials, and assist with building consent processes.

Architectural Technicians may: make detailed drawings and build models of building structures; interpret sketches and project instructions; research building materials; check that drawings comply with statutory and regulatory building requirements; assist with consent processes and co-ordinate with other building professionals and deal with clients.

Works indoors in adequately ventilated and heated offices but may be exposed to the elements when visiting worksites.

• The physical demand is light.
• Standing and walking is occasionally required when moving about an office.
• Sitting is frequently required at a draughting board or computer workstation to prepare designs/specifications.
• Stretching and reaching across is not a significant component of the role.
• Bending, squatting, crouching or kneeling is unlikely to be required.
• Twisting of the body or neck is not a significant component of the role.
• Contact with skin irritants or water is unlikely to be required.
• Lifting, pulling or carrying is not a significant component of the role.
• Repetitive movements are frequent and relate to design work with computers and programmes such as CAD (Computer Aided Design).
• Driving of vehicles may be required for site visits.
• Use of hand tools/hand-held objects will include draughting board, computer, design hand tools and measuring equipment.
• Mental skills necessary include computer skills and knowledge of computer-aided design draughting software packages; design skills; the ability to interpret drawings; knowledge of architecture, building methods, and materials; and knowledge of the New Zealand Building Code, New Zealand Building Act and Code Resource Management Act, local planning regulations and by-laws.

Architectural Technicians need a NZ Diploma in Architectural Technology (ANZSCO Skill Level 2; NZ Register Level 6) and can apply for a professional licence under the Licensed Building Practitioners scheme (the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has three different classes of registration for building designers: Design 1 (houses); Design 2 (complex commercial or residential buildings); Design 3 (large or publicly important buildings)).

Architectural Technicians can also apply to register with Architectural Designers New Zealand.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.