The Architecture level II staff position represents a critical phase in an architect’s professional development. Level II architects are responsible for design development, project coordination, and client communication between the junior and senior positions.
The role is crucial in maintaining workflow efficiency within architectural firms and is often a stepping stone to leadership positions in architecture and urban design.
Architecture Level II practitioners possess technical skills, robust creative problem-solving abilities, and extensive knowledge of building codes and sustainability standards.
They work hand-in-hand with chief architects to redefine the design while overseeing junior staff and interns to achieve successful project implementation.
Their role is most crucial in medium to large-sized organizations where they help bring conceptual thinking into actionable architectural solutions.
More companies are looking for level II licensed architects. They rapidly implement digital technologies and BIM tools, collaborating with distant teams. As project advancement is witnessing a huge surge, companies need mid-level personnel to align design teams with high-ranking management services.
According to the American Institute of Architects (AIA), middle-level architects contribute approximately 35% of major firms' overall design development workload, which speaks volumes about their worth in the industry.
Additionally, the spread of remote architectural work has opened broader opportunities for Level II architects to take up global projects with no limitations of geographical location. The majority of companies desire dedicated remote architects to simplify project execution to reduce operational costs.
Understanding the role, task, and challenge of an Architecture Level II Staff improves professional's and employers' productivity and career growth in the ever-changing architecture and construction world.
Role of Architecture Level II Staff: Understanding Requirement
Architecture Level II Staff participates in the conceptual design and offers complete support throughout the project. Level II architects serve as subject matter experts on specialized systems. They communicate with other architects/staff, and consultants to develop and represent the key technical perspective on projects.
Level II professionals can coordinate with the director and department head to develop appropriate technical solutions and product strategies. The project size distinguishes this job from the senior level.
Who should consider becoming Architecture Level II Staff?
Architects with two to five years of professional experience, and seeking to rise beyond junior roles by taking on more design and leadership duties should explore the work order for level II staff.
Furthermore, those with expertise in design software, BIM, and project management are an appropriate choice for such roles.
Architecture Level II Remote Architect: Responsibilities and Work Order
A higher degree of responsibility and technical proficiency is critical for the position of Part II Architectural Assistant. A wide variety of duties are involved in the role, such as:
Project Design and Development
Architecture Level II staff assist in conceptual design, concept development, and design with high-end models, images, and sketches. They develop effective design solutions concerning WELL and LEED construction methods.
Construction Documentation
Their responsibilities include conducting documentation to submit to regulatory agencies, performing site surveys, and creating technical drawings and specifications.
Building Regulations
They make sure that designs adhere to construction codes, standards, and regulations and generate the required paperwork.
Communication
Communicating with contractors, clients, and other experts to guarantee the project's seamless completion.
Project Management
Coordinating project management, which includes keeping an eye on budgets, keeping track of deadlines, and supervising the work of less experienced team members.
Building Performance
Evaluating how well buildings operate environmentally and putting energy-saving, sustainable, and well-being initiatives into practice.
Key Skills and Qualifications
Completing a Part I architecture curriculum and gaining relevant job experience are usually prerequisites for becoming an Architectural Level II Staff member.
Numerous architecture firms offer Part II training programs that include mentorship and on-the-job training. A Part II Architect can speak clearly with individuals, listen intently, think critically, and execute profoundly.
Being a level II in a design firm is beneficial as one can enhance their technical skill set and become more familiar with architectural nuances.
Being level II is a tedious role compared to Part I staff, and holds prime importance in a design firm. The job allows you to interact with new people, create a work portfolio, and prepare yourself to be a licensed architect.
Although the Architectural Level II Staff requires some training in architecture. The work is suitable for those who can master new skills and enhance their talents.
The work demands technical skills such as design, project management, building performance, and communication. Architectural Level II Staff is a member of the design team and is a step towards becoming a licensed architect.
Key Challenges in the Field
Balancing Multiple Projects and Deadlines
Effectively handling workloads without sacrificing design quality. Putting project management techniques like Agile and Lean Construction into practice.
Navigating Client Expectations
Recognizing the needs of the client and matching them with workable architectural solutions. Design analysis powered by AI to forecast viability and financial effects.
Keeping Up with Technological Advancements
Keeping up with new technologies, such as VR/AR apps and AI-powered design software. Changing to meet new requirements for smart city digital twin technology.
Remote Architect Level II Supports Team
Hiring a remote architect level II staff can benefit design firms by providing access to global talent without location constraints, enhancing workflow efficiency through digital collaboration tools, and reducing operational costs while maintaining high-quality output.
AEC firms can collaborate with remote architects or a team of remote architects through DRM solutions. It is a tailored approach to onboard dedicated and experienced professionals within 3 days.
Hiring with DRM allows the firms to work with the top 1% of architects who are ready to contribute to the project dynamics from the onset.
Expedite Success with Suitable Tools and Technology
BIM
Streamlining coordination between different disciplines.
Collaboration Tools for Remote and Hybrid Teams
Platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, Miro, and Asana facilitate effective communication and project management.
Advanced Visualization Software (VR/AR)
Enabling immersive client presentations and real-time design modifications.
Tips for Excelling as an Architecture Level II Staff
Prioritize Time management and Organisation
Some project tracking tools like Trello and Monday.com help with staying on top of the deadlines.
Trends in Businesses and Emerging Software
Always learning new stuff, new design ways with nature, and new technologies keep the architects ahead of the competition
Good communication with clients as well as co-workers
Building good interpersonal skills makes collaborating easier with different professionals from varying fields.
Conclusion
The Architecture Level II Staff is a critical level in a designer's development with a variety of growth possibilities. Such a professional, either locally based or as a Dedicated Remote architect, helps design, coordinate, and deliver architecture projects globally.
Level II practitioners can contribute more in architecture offices in terms of technical proficiency, project management, as well as new digital technologies. In fields such as sustainability agendas, virtual work, as well as AI-based design strategies, practitioners in this role have a mandate to be competitive as well as dynamic.
Onboarding remote level II architects with DRM can benefit in the longer run, facilitating success with 3-day onboarding time, 4 times efficiency, and reduced overall costs.
