--- title: Career Progression of Architects v/s Computational Designers description: The career progression of an architect and Computational Designers are similar, yet diverge to different paths. Let us explore their unique career trajectories. image: https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Career%20Progression%20of%20Architects%20v%20Computational%20Designers.jpg --- [![Novatr Prev OX](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Novatr%20Prev%20OX.svg "Novatr Prev OX")](http://novatr.com) - Courses - [BIM Professional Program v.2026](https://www.novatr.com/courses/bim-professional-program) - [Master Computational Design Course](https://www.novatr.com/courses/computational-design) - [Resources](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub) - [Hire From Us](https://www.novatr.com/hire-from-us) - [Events](https://www.novatr.com/webinars) - [Our Impact](https://www.novatr.com/impact-on-aec) Request a Callback ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/BIM%20Mails/Solid-1.png) - Courses - [BIM Professional Program v.2026](https://www.novatr.com/courses/bim-professional-program) - [Master Computational Design Course](https://www.novatr.com/courses/computational-design) - [Resources](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub) - [Hire From Us](https://www.novatr.com/hire-from-us) - [Events](https://www.novatr.com/webinars) - [Our Impact](https://www.novatr.com/impact-on-aec) × ##### Request a callback Select designation\* Student Working Professional Select specialisation\* Architecture Interior Designing Civil Engineering Mechanical Engineering Others Request a callback **![Coffee break-pana 3 2](https://blog.novatr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Coffee%20break-pana%203%202.png?width=320&height=180&name=Coffee%20break-pana%203%202.png) Thanks for connecting!** Our academic counsellor will reach out to you within the next 24 hours between 10am-10pm IST. [![Frame 4756@2x](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Frame%204756@2x.svg)](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub) - [Architecture & Construction](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub?category=Architecture+%26+Construction) - [BIM](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub?category=BIM) - [Computational Design](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub?category=Computational+Design) - [Company News](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub?category=Company+News) - [Expert Talks](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub?category=Expert+Talks) # Career Progression of Architects v/s Computational Designers ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/saumya_verma.jpg) Saumya Verma 8 min read February 4, 2023 - ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/BIM%20Placement%20Reports/FacebookLogo.svg) - ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/BIM%20Placement%20Reports/TwitterLogo.svg) - ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/BIM%20Placement%20Reports/LinkedinLogo.svg) ![blog](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Career%20Progression%20of%20Architects%20v%20Computational%20Designers.jpg) Table of Contents [![MCD B (Intro card)-Aug-11-2023-09-34-41-5223-AM](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/MCD%20B%20(Intro%20card)-Aug-11-2023-09-34-41-5223-AM.svg)](https://www.novatr.com/courses/computational-design/l?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=website_card_after_intro&utm_campaign=mcd_course_leads) In this blog, we will compare the career trajectories of both architects and computational designers. ## Career Progression Of An Architect ![Group of people working on a plan](https://blog.novatr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/shutterstock_192446648.jpg?width=1894&height=1262&name=shutterstock_192446648.jpg) After 3-5 years (depending on the country) of architecture school, the graduates prepare to enter the workforce. After the mandatory 6 months of internship experience, architecture students follow the following career trajectories, starting with a Junior Architect. ### Junior Architect A [junior architect](https://www.novatr.com/blog/architectural-designer-career-guide) or an architectural assistant supports the architect in design development. The main responsibilities are typically drafting, modelling, research and preparations for presentations and drawing submissions.  Skills required: - Good knowledge of Autocad, Sketchup and other 3D modelling software - Proficient in architectural visualisation - Good communication skills Salary: INR 17,000/mo Accumulated years of experience:0-3 ### Architect The architect helms an entire design project from conceptualisation to production. He/she will develop design ideas, generate diagrams and models, as well as all drawings.  Skills required:  - Proficiency in [**3D modelling**](https://www.novatr.com/blog/everything-about-3d-modelling-in-construction), drafting and rendering - Excellent skills in Revit, Sketchup, Autocad, 3ds Max, Vray, Lumion or Enscape, Rhino, Grasshopper and Dynamo - Knowledge of digital image editing with Adobe suite applications or equivalent - BIM skills are a plus Salary: INR 28,000-32,000/mo Accumulated years of experience: 2-6 ### Project Architect A project architect is a mid-senior role who supervises the project through the design and construction stages. Responsible for ensuring zoning and by-laws compliance, the project architect takes on the project coordination and management. He/she will also take charge of ensuring the overall design intent is incorporated in documentation. Skills required: - Experience in project coordination and delivery - Specialised knowledge in various building typologies - Proficiency in [**Revit**](https://www.novatr.com/blog/revit-courses-and-tutorials), Rhino, Dynamo, Grasshopper and other 3D modelling and rendering software - Project management skills Salary: INR 55,000/mo Accumulated years of experience: 5-8 ### Associate The years of experience have made an associate an expert in all things design. In addition to overseeing the design process, they will also prepare detailed drawings as per requirements. Skills required: - Knowledge of construction systems and details - Basic knowledge of engineering systems is a plus - Ability to comprehend and interpret, building and zoning codes - Proficiency in 3D modelling, rendering and [**project management software**](https://www.novatr.com/blog/bim-for-project-management) Salary:INR 65,000/mo Accumulated years of experience: 8-15 [![Course Banner MCD](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/MCD%20B%20(Course%20Banner).svg)](https://www.novatr.com/courses/computational-design/l?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=website_course_banner&utm_campaign=mcd_course_leads) ### Principal Architect The Principal Architect essentially manages the entire firm. He/she will focus on coordinating the entire project while also giving inputs for the design. Skills required: Expertise in architectural design, construction systems and all relevant software  Management and leadership skills Salary: INR 100,000/mo Accumulated years of experience: 20+ or self-employed ## Career Progression Of A Computational Designer ![A parametric building](https://blog.novatr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Computational-design-Parramatta-Square.jpg?width=2000&height=1246&name=Computational-design-Parramatta-Square.jpg) ### Computational Designer/ Parametric Designer/ Environmental Analyst The trajectory of a [**career in Computational Design**](https://www.novatr.com/blog/career-paths-in-computational-design) starts as a Computational Designer/ Parametric Designer / Environmental Analyst.  Roles and Responsibilities: - Develop computational design processes, embodiments, pipelines, and tools to explore mediation across biomimetic, biointegrated, and biosynthetic systems - **Conception:** Create prototypes, models, and pre-visualizations of computational design embodiments and methods to guide design processes and decision-making within the team - **Research:** Conduct research to enable and support projects through computational design technologies. Research is integrated to specific projects or facilitates the development of computational design processes used across projects - **Implementation:** Realise design concepts by using computational methods to design embodiments and, further, implement novel computational design processes that generate embodiments (e.g., 3D models, fabrication descriptions, machine interfaces, software, scripts) - **Visualisation:** Develop 3D renderings and illustrations to inform and express research and design concepts to the team, clients, and the public Salary: 40-50 K GBP Accumulated years of experience: **1**-2 years Also check out:[How Is Computational Design Used in Architecture in 2026?](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/computational-design-in-architecture) ### CD / DT Specialist After more than 3 years of experience in Computational Design in a professional setting, a person becomes a CD/ DT Specialist. Roles and Responsibilities: - Candidates with a particular interest in **data-driven approaches to design.** - Working on a range of practice-wide initiatives including **workflow development and data-driven strategy.** - Research and exploration into new technologies and innovations in the industry. - The ability to **clearly articulate [advanced computational concepts](https://www.novatr.com/blog/computational-design-guide) in an easily understandable manner.** - Willingness to learn new softwares - Attention to Detail - Strong Communication Skills - Fast Paced Working Style Salary: 50-70 K GBP Accumulated years of experience: 3 years ### CD / DT Lead/ Senior Computational Designer After more than 5 years of experience in Computational Design in a professional setting, a person becomes a CD/ DT Lead. Roles and Responsibilities: - Work closely with the **office CD manager and computational team** - Support architectural project teams in the **use of computational tools and workflows, especially visual programming and complex modelling.** - Providing technical support and training directly to project team members - Promoting the strategic application of computational design in both project and practice scenarios - Research and exploration into new technologies and innovations in the industry. - The ability to clearly articulate advanced computational concepts in an easily understandable manner - Willingness to learn new softwares - Attention to Detail - Strong Communication Skills Salary: 50-70 K GBP Accumulated years of experience: 5+ years ### CD / DT Manager After more than 5-10 years of experience in Computational Design in a professional setting, a person becomes a CD/ DT Manager. Roles and Responsibilities: - Provide leadership to the studio DT team and promote the use of technology within the studio, including computation, [**BIM**](https://www.novatr.com/us/courses/building-information-modelling), XR and other emerging technologies. - Have a primarily **studio-focussed view, acting as an ambassador for Design Technology in the local studio** - Contribute to project discussions, exploring and developing opportunities for Design Technology - Work with studio leadership to develop key DT strategies around the application of DfMA, sustainability, and data-driven approaches to projects - **Contribute Design Technology knowledge to bids to secure work** - Be relied upon to have extensive knowledge of your area(s) of expertise - Actively contribute to local DT strategy - Oversee and manage the work of the local DT team, in their role of supporting projects and training staff as well as contributing to non-project DT initiatives - Actively contribute to global DT strategy - Represent Design Technology externally **through events, online presence, and presentations.** **Salary: 70-100 K GBP** Accumulated years of experience: 5-10 years ### Director of Technology / DT Studio-Regional Head After more than 10-15 years of experience in Computational Design in a professional setting, a person becomes a Director of Technology/ DT Studio-Regional Head. Roles and Responsibilities: - Applications architect who supervise individual parts of major IT projects and undertake technical duties   - Solutions architect, who leads entire projects. - Enterprise architect, IT technical architect who oversees an organisation’s IT strategy - Cloud technical architect who works on cloud computing architecture - Infrastructure architect undertaking projects related to hardware and infrastructure equipment.  - Besides, there are roles like an associate technical architect, lead technical architect **Salary: 70-100 K GBP** Accumulated years of experience:10-15 years ### CTO After more than 10-15 years of experience in Computational Design in a professional setting, a person goes on to become a Director of Technology/ DT Studio-Regional Head. Good managerial experience for this role is extremely desirable. Roles and Responsibilities: A CTO's technical skills require expertise in IT infrastructure, security, asset management, help desk support, and research and development. **Salary: 100K + GBP** Accumulated years of experience: 10-15 years Evidently, CD professionals at every level earn better than the traditional architect roles. Many industry professionals are showing interest in Computational Design as it will allow them to stay in the architecture industry but with better pay. ## How Can You Start Your Computational Design Career? ![A parametric form alongside a script](https://blog.novatr.com/hs-fs/hubfs/blog-header-2%20(1).jpg?width=1420&height=652&name=blog-header-2%20(1).jpg) Want to know how to start your career in Computational Design? Get started by learning it. Check out: [8 Best Places to Learn Computational Design (2026)](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/best-place-to-learn-computational-design) The [Master Computational Design Course for Real World Application](https://www.novatr.com/courses/computational-design) from Novatr delivers an industry-relevant curriculum, prepared by experts from top AEC firms. The course focuses on practical application of Computational Design through industry workflows, allowing the learners to master it in just 8 months. The learners will also work on a RIBA-structured capstone project to practise their skills with the guidance of the mentors.  Master Computational Design and enjoy better opportunities and remuneration in your career. For more information on Computational Design and its careers, check out some more blogs on our [Resources.](https://blog.novatr.com/learning-hub) #### Similar Blogs ##### [![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Architect_3D_model-1.jpg) 5 Careers and Salaries for An Architect vs A BIM Expert: A Comparative Guide](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/salary-and-career-comparsion-of-archietcts-and-bim-experts) ##### [![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Thalassic_Hotel-1.jpg) 8 Best Places to Learn Computational Design (2026)](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/best-place-to-learn-computational-design) ##### [![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Scott_Sports_SA_Headquarters_BIM_model-1.jpg) Computational BIM Guide: The Next Paradigm Shift in The AEC industry (2026)](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/computational-bim-guide) [![MCD sidebar (460px)-Aug-11-2023-09-35-12-5458-AM](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/MCD%20sidebar%20(460px)-Aug-11-2023-09-35-12-5458-AM.svg)](https://www.novatr.com/courses/computational-design/l?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=website_sidebar&utm_campaign=mcd_course_leads) #### Related articles [See All Articles![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Solid%20(3).png)](https://www.novatr.com/learning-hub) ###### [BIM Professional Course V2.0: For Architects & Interior/Landscape/Urban Designers ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/IMG-20241204-WA0004.jpg) Bandana Singh February 21, 2024 13 min read ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/A%20building%20design%20created%20using%20BIM.jpg)](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/why-our-bim-course-is-right-for-you) ###### [BIM Modeler Career Guide: Roles & Salaries 2026 ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/IMG-20241204-WA0004.jpg) Bandana Singh July 19, 2024 17 min read ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/1.jpeg)](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/bim-modeler-career-guide) ###### [- BIM What is the Scope of Sustainable Architecture, and How Can You Build a Career in it in 2026? ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/JubyMintoJohn.jpg) Juby John April 12, 2022 8 min read ![](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/7b-y62C71BZqePcQN3AFLek2qkXIBNX1qwOBNWEGI2JjSXDf_QqFVlZ6sJyIaDea63z5SuFXaTC9uGskfHfCIONhe0cA5BOj3zcfILH99uCxUeMTURfcq124PI_pwVtc1waewWz5sm4WN3FK8ZVIrl0)](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/sustainable-architecture-scope-and-careers) ###### [14 Best Architecture Design Software You Should Know in 2026 ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Author%20Image%20(1).jpg) Sukanya Bhattacharjee July 31, 2024 44 min read ![](https://blog.novatr.com/hubfs/Architect%20working%20on%20architectural%20design%20software.jpg)](https://blog.novatr.com/blog/top-architectural-design-softwares) Ready to skyrocket your career? ##### Your next chapter in AEC begins with Novatr! 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