An architecture intern often struggles with demonstrating relevant experience on their resume, as their professional exposure is typically limited at this stage. Our guide can assist by illustrating how to effectively highlight academic projects, workshops, and other related experiences in a manner that presents them as valuable assets to potential employers.
Here's what you'll read within our professional resume guide:
- Architecture intern resumes that are tailored to the role are more likely to catch recruiters' attention.
- Most sought-out architecture intern skills that should make your resume.
- Styling the layout of your professional resume: take a page from architecture intern resume examples.
- How to write about your architecture intern achievements in various resume sections (e.g. summary, experience, and education).
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Tips for refining your architecture intern resume format
The resume format sets the stage for your professional narrative. Ensure it:
- Adopts the reverse-chronological format, placing your most recent experiences at the forefront. This format is ideal for those with relevant and up-to-date experience.
- Features a clear headline, making it straightforward for recruiters to access your contact details, portfolio, or current role.
- Stays concise, ideally spanning no more than two pages, focusing on relevant experiences and skills.
- Maintains its layout by being saved as a PDF, ensuring compatibility with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
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Pro tip
While color can enhance your architecture intern resume by emphasizing key details like headlines, job titles, and degrees, moderation is key. Stick to a primary and a secondary color to maintain professionalism and avoid a cluttered appearance.
Must-have sections on a architecture intern resume:
- A header to list your job title and contact information
- A resume summary or objective which highlights your top career achievements
- A detailed experience section where you emphasize the breadth of your expertise
- A skills box to put the spotlight on your social talents and technical strengths
- An education and certifications section which features your qualifications
What recruiters want to see on your resume:
- Strong understanding of architectural principles and theory showcased through your academic projects or any related work experience.
- Proficiency in architectural software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, or Rhino. Include specific examples or certifications if applicable.
- Experience with physical modeling or digital rendering techniques, demonstrating ability to visualize concepts and communicate design ideas.
- Evidence of problem-solving skills and creativity in design, which can often be demonstrated through a well-curated portfolio.
- Interpersonal/communication skills; architecture is a collaborative field so being able to work effectively in teams is highly valuable.
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Optimizing the experience section of your architecture intern resume
The experience section is pivotal—it bridges the gap between your qualifications and the job's requirements.
To craft an impactful architecture intern experience section, consider these guidelines:
- Review the job posting to identify key requirements and align your past roles with these needs.
- Go beyond listing skills—demonstrate their impact through quantifiable achievements.
- Exclude roles that don't enhance your application or showcase relevant skills.
- While technical expertise is crucial, also highlight soft skills that add value to your role.
- Use action verbs to articulate your accomplishments and the skills employed to achieve them.
Below, we've provided architecture intern resume samples to inspire your experience section, ensuring it adheres to industry best practices.
Work Experience
Junior Architecture Intern
Design Solutions Inc
2015-2017
- Collaborated with senior architects to develop design concepts for residential projects.
- Utilized AutoCAD and Revit to create detailed architectural drawings and 3D models.
- Participated in on-site visits to assess construction progress and ensure adherence to design specifications.
- Assisted in preparing presentations and visual materials for client meetings.
Work Experience
Architecture Intern
GreenArchitects LLC
2012-2014
- Conducted research on sustainable building materials and technologies, resulting in the implementation of energy-efficient solutions in multiple projects.
- Contributed to the development of comprehensive architectural plans and project proposals.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and contractors, to ensure seamless project execution.
- Assisted in conducting site analysis and surveys to gather data for design considerations.
Work Experience
Architecture Intern
Sustainable Design Group
2020-Ongoing
- Engage in the preparation of construction documents, including detailed drawings, specifications, and material selections.
- Contribute to the creation of sustainable design strategies, integrating renewable energy systems into architectural projects.
- Support the project management team in coordinating with clients, consultants, and contractors throughout the construction process.
- Assist in conducting feasibility studies and cost estimations for upcoming projects.
Work Experience
Architectural Design Intern
Innovative Designs Ltd
2018-2020
- Collaborated with senior architects to develop design concepts and space planning solutions for commercial projects.
- Utilized Building Information Modeling (BIM) software to create accurate 3D models and construction documentation.
- Assisted in conducting code compliance reviews and ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.
- Contributed to the preparation of architectural specifications and material selections.
Work Experience
Architecture Intern
Urban Architects & Planners
2011-2012
- Participated in the conceptualization and design development stages of high-rise residential buildings.
- Performed site visits and inspections to monitor construction progress and quality control.
- Assisted in preparing graphic materials and presentations for client meetings and design competitions.
- Contributed to the production of working drawings and coordinated with consultants for technical integration.
Work Experience
Lead Architecture Intern
Progressive Engineering Solutions
2019-2022
- Led a team of interns in the development of architectural designs for institutional projects.
- Implemented sustainable design strategies, resulting in LEED Gold certification for a major project.
- Managed project documentation and ensured compliance with project milestones and deadlines.
- Assisted in coordinating with clients, contractors, and suppliers to resolve design-related issues.
Work Experience
Interior Architecture Intern
Modern Interiors Inc
2009-2010
- Contributed to the design and remodeling of residential spaces, optimizing functionality and aesthetics.
- Prepared detailed construction drawings and specifications for interior fit-outs.
- Assisted in conducting material research and vendor coordination for project requirements.
- Collaborated with contractors to ensure accurate implementation of design intent.
Work Experience
Architectural Visualization Intern
Visual Architects Studio
2013-2016
- Supported the architectural team in the design development and documentation phases of commercial projects.
- Created 3D visualizations and renderings to enhance presentations and client communication.
- Assisted in conducting site analysis and preparing reports on existing conditions.
- Contributed to the selection and specification of materials and finishes.
Work Experience
Architecture Design Intern
Urban Innovations Ltd
2017-2021
- Assisted in the design of mixed-use developments, incorporating sustainable design principles and green spaces.
- Developed construction documents and coordinated with engineering consultants for structural integration.
- Conducted accessibility reviews and ensured compliance with building codes and regulations.
- Participated in client meetings and provided design solutions based on project requirements and budget.
Work Experience
Healthcare Architecture Intern
MediDesign Architects
2014-2015
- Contributed to the design and development of healthcare facilities, focusing on patient-centered environments.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to integrate functional requirements into architectural plans.
- Assisted in conducting user research and implementing evidence-based design strategies.
- Participated in construction administration activities, ensuring adherence to design intent.
Quantifying impact on your resume
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Addressing a lack of relevant architecture intern experience
Even if you lack direct architecture intern experience, you can still craft a compelling resume. Here's how:
- Highlight projects or publications that demonstrate your relevant skills or knowledge.
- Emphasize transferable skills, showcasing your adaptability and eagerness to learn.
- In your objective, outline your career aspirations and how they align with the company's goals.
- Consider a functional or hybrid resume format, focusing on skills over chronological experience.
Pro tip
When detailing your career journey, there's no need to delve deep into early roles. Prioritize what resonates with recruiters. For senior positions, a decade-long retrospective can effectively illustrate your evolution.
Creating your architecture intern resume skills section: balancing hard skills and soft skills
Recruiters hiring for architecture intern roles are always keen on hiring candidates with relevant technical and people talents.
Hard skills or technical ones are quite beneficial for the industry - as they refer to your competency with particular software and technologies.
Meanwhile, your soft (or people) skills are quite crucial to yours and the company's professional growth as they detail how you'd cooperate and interact in your potential environment.
Here's how to describe your hard and soft skill set in your architecture intern resume:
- Consider what the key job requirements are and list those towards the top of your skills section.
- Think of individual, specific skills that help you stand out amongst competitors, and detail how they've helped you succeed in the past.
- Look to the future of the industry and list all software/ technologies which are forward-facing.
- Create a separate, technical skills section to supplement your experience and further align with the architecture intern job advert.
Find the perfect balance between your resume hard and soft skills with our two lists.
Top skills for your architecture intern resume:
HARD SKILLS
AutoCAD
Revit
SketchUp
Adobe Creative Suite
3D Modeling
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
Microsoft Office Suite
Rendering Software (e.g., V-Ray, Lumion)
Site Analysis Tools
Presentation Software (e.g., PowerPoint)
SOFT SKILLS
Communication
Teamwork
Problem Solving
Time Management
Attention to Detail
Adaptability
Creativity
Critical Thinking
Project Management
Interpersonal Skills
Pro tip
When detailing your skills, always back them up with tangible evidence, be it quantifiable results or certifications.
Choosing the right certifications and education for your architecture intern resume
Your education section can highlight skills and experiences perfect for the job.
- List college or university degrees with the school name and dates.
- If you're still studying, mention your expected graduation date.
- Think twice before adding unrelated degrees. Space on your resume is precious.
- Discuss educational achievements if they boost your job relevance.
There are many certifications out there. Which ones should you include?
- List your main degree in a separate section with the school name and dates.
- Only add certifications that highlight your skills and experience.
- Place unique or recent certifications near the top.
- Add a brief description to certifications if it helps show your skills.
Remember, it's not about quantity but relevance.
Best certifications to list on your resume
- Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD for Design and Drafting Exam Prep, Autodesk
- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP), U.S. Green Building Council
- Chartered Surveyor in Building Surveying, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
- Business Continuity Planning Associate (BCPA), Disaster Recovery Institute International (DRII)
Pro tip
If you have basic certificates, place them in the skills or experience section. This saves space for high-demand industry certificates.
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Best practices for your architecture intern resume summary or objective
How do you know if you should include a resume summary or a resume objective?
- Resume summaries are ideal for architecture intern professionals with more experience, who'd like to give a quick glimpse of their biggest career achievements in the top one-third of their resumes.
- On the other hand, resume objectives serve as a road map to the applicant's aspirations. Candidates use the objective as the North Star of their career (or, how they see themselves in the role in the next few years).
Both could be the perfect fit for your architecture intern resume, depending on your experience.
Here's how candidates for the architecture intern job structure their summaries and objectives.
Resume summary and objective examples for a architecture intern resume
- With a decade of experience in residential design, John Doe is an accomplished architect with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Holder of LEED AP credentials, he boasts a portfolio of 30+ eco-friendly designs and has won the AIA Design Award twice.
- Mary Smith, a seasoned Software Engineer, is seeking to transition into architecture. Armed with a Master’s degree in Architecture from Harvard University and advanced knowledge of CAD and Revit, she fuses her tech acumen with her creative flair to deliver groundbreaking designs.
- Eager to embark on an architectural journey, Tom Brown, a recent high school graduate, aspires to apply his passion for design and a robust understanding of AutoCAD obtained through self-study. His aim is to contribute to sustainable urban development projects while furthering his skills.
- As a recognized Civil Engineer, Jim Taylor combines his profound understanding of structural integrity with a recently earned Architecture degree. Proficient in BIM software and 3D modeling, he seeks to leverage these skills in architectural design, focusing on public infrastructure projects.
- An enthusiastic Fine Arts graduate, Emily Johnson aims to merge her artistic abilities with her love for functional design, fostered during her Bachelor's in Architecture. She plans to utilize her skills in SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite to assist in producing distinctive architectural solutions.
- Fresh off earning a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies, Nina Green is eager to integrate her knowledge of sustainable practices into practical architectural design. With proficiency in Rhino and Grasshopper, she lays focus on creating efficient and eco-conscious structures.
Enhancing your architecture intern resume with additional sections
Make your architecture intern resume truly distinctive by adding supplementary sections that showcase:
- Awards that underscore your industry recognition.
- Projects that bolster your application's relevance.
- Hobbies, if they can further your candidacy by revealing facets of your personality.
- Community involvement to highlight causes you champion.
Key takeaways
- Format your architecture intern resume for clarity and coherence, ensuring it aligns with the role.
- Highlight key sections (header, summary/objective, experience, skills, certifications) within your architecture intern resume.
- Quantify achievements and align them with skills and job requirements.
- Feature both technical and personal skills across your resume for a balanced portrayal.
