Building Designer

A Building Designer creates plans for residential homes, commercial properties and public buildings. You might design structures for a range of different clients or be employed to specialise in a particular type of building. Building Designers liaise with clients to discuss concepts and develop sketches. Once a design is agreed on, you’ll prepare more detailed plans and specifications.

A Building Designer needs to be able to communicate with a range of clients and understand their individual needs. You’ll also have to liaise with builders and you’ll need a strong knowledge of current building codes and standards. Building Designers need good problem solving skills and should be able to work independently. It’s important that you have excellent attention to detail and can work on several projects at once.

Future demand High
Average yearly income $75,400
Skill level Advanced

How do I become a building designer?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
Recommended
22627VIC

Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural)
Blended, On Campus
23 - 24 months
$27,116 - $39,000
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Architectural Technician Draftsperson Building Designer
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Architectural Technician Draftsperson Building Designer
CPP50921

Diploma of Building Design
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
12 - 27 months
$0 - $24,928
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Graduate Architect Building Designer Draftsperson
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Graduate Architect Building Designer Draftsperson

Bachelor of Building Design
On Campus, Online
3 - 5 years
$0 - $60,698
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Building Designer Architectural Technician
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
Building Designer Architectural Technician
CPP60421

Advanced Diploma of Building Design
Online
24 months
$8,070
  • Completed Diploma of Building Design or equivalent qualifications OR
  • Evidence of relevant skills, knowledge and employment experience
Additional requirements may apply.
Building Designer Draftsperson Architectural Technician
  • Completed Diploma of Building Design or equivalent qualifications OR
  • Evidence of relevant skills, knowledge and employment experience
Additional requirements may apply.
Building Designer Draftsperson Architectural Technician
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Graduate Architect

A Graduate Architect designs buildings by creating sketches and detailed plans, ensuring compliance with building codes while collaborating with clients and builders.

Avg yearly income $74,880
Skill level Unknown

Architectural Technician

An Architectural Technician prepares drawings and models, collaborating with clients and architects, while ensuring compliance and understanding client needs.

Avg yearly income $78,000
Skill level Advanced

Architect

Architects design various structures, from homes to commercial buildings, and engage in client meetings, feasibility studies, and project inspections.

Avg yearly income $141,180
Skill level Unknown

Architectural Designer

An Architectural Designer creates sustainable building designs, collaborating with clients and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Avg yearly income $78,000
Skill level Unknown

Architectural Engineer

An Architectural Engineer designs and manages the construction of buildings, ensuring they are functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing while adhering to regulations.

Avg yearly income $90,012
Skill level Unknown

Project Architect

A Project Architect manages architectural projects from conception to completion, ensuring designs meet standards and coordinating with clients and contractors.

Avg yearly income $104,000
Skill level Unknown

Interior Architect

An Interior Architect designs and optimises interior spaces for functionality and aesthetics, collaborating with clients and teams to meet project needs.

Avg yearly income $98,800
Skill level Unknown

Architectural Technologist

Architectural Technologist creates technical drawings and specifications, ensuring building design compliance and supporting projects from concept to completion.

Avg yearly income $72,800
Skill level Unknown

Common questions

How much does a Building Designer earn?

In Australia, a full time Building Designer generally earns $1,450 per week ($75,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

What are the job opportunities for a Building Designer?

Building Designers have enjoyed strong employment growth over the last five years. There are currently 17,000 people working in this industry in Australia compared to 15,000 five years ago. Building Designers may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

How do I become a Building Designer?

If you’re thinking about a career as a Building Designer, consider enrolling in a Diploma of Building Design. This course is ideal for draftpersons and building designers who want to further their skills in producing concepts, designs and drawings for residential and small-scale commercial projects.

Author Image
Courses.com.au Team Industry expert

Further reading

How to get a job in the fitness industry

29th January 2025

Free Cyber Security Courses

29th January 2025

How to get qualified and start a career as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist in Australia

23rd December 2024

Courses by location