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Entry Level Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Architect information

See California salary details

$45.9K

$127.1K

$198.9K

How much do entry level architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level architect in California is $127,070.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,800.00 and $163,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the lowest salary for an architect?

The lowest salary for an entry-level architect typically starts around $45,000 to $55,000 annually, depending on location and employer. Salaries can vary based on education, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled, with some positions starting lower in regions with a lower cost of living.

What is the difference between Entry Level Architect vs Junior Architect?

AspectEntry Level ArchitectJunior Architect
CredentialsBachelor's degree in architecture, internship experienceBachelor's degree, internship or similar experience
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, architecture studios, construction sitesDesign teams, project sites, architectural firms
ResponsibilitiesAssist in design, drafting, research, basic project tasksSupport senior architects, prepare drawings, coordinate projects

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in architecture and internship experience. Entry Level Architects often handle initial design tasks and research, while Junior Architects support senior staff with drafting and project coordination. The titles are used interchangeably in some firms, but 'Entry Level Architect' emphasizes a formal entry point into the profession, whereas 'Junior Architect' may imply a slightly lower or more support-focused role.

Are architects still in demand?

Entry level architects are still in demand, especially in regions with ongoing construction, urban development, and infrastructure projects. The profession requires skills in design, CAD software, and knowledge of building codes, with employment prospects influenced by economic growth and real estate activity.

What Does an Entry-Level Architect Do?

As an entry-level architect, your job is to help create conceptual designs for each project at your firm. In this role, you may help design a landscape, create structures that meet the commercial or residential needs of the client, or prepare architectural assessments. Entry-level architects frequently produce design drawings, use physical and digital art to convey ideas, and receive mentoring from senior-level architects. Many companies use this position as a form of additional training, so learning and developing your skills may be among your most important tasks. You also support senior architects, ensure all projects adhere to the company's standards of practice, and help answer questions for clients.

What do entry-level architects do?

Entry-level architects assist senior architects in designing and developing building plans, creating drawings, and preparing construction documents using CAD software. They may also conduct site visits, research building codes, and support project coordination to gain practical experience in architecture projects.

What is an Entry Level Architect?

An Entry Level Architect is a recent graduate or early-career professional who assists in the design, planning, and construction of buildings and structures under the supervision of licensed architects. They typically work on tasks such as drafting, creating 3D models, conducting research, and preparing presentations. Entry Level Architects are usually working toward licensure and gaining practical experience required for professional advancement. This role is a foundational step in an architect's career and provides valuable exposure to different aspects of architectural practice.

Can you be an architect without experience?

Entry level architects typically need a professional degree in architecture and may require internships or apprenticeships to gain practical experience. While some entry positions are available to recent graduates, most employers prefer candidates with some hands-on experience or a license, which involves passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Architect, you need a bachelor's or master's degree in architecture, a strong foundation in design principles, and knowledge of building codes and construction methods. Proficiency with architectural software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, as well as familiarity with 3D modeling and rendering tools, is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help you collaborate effectively with clients and project teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing accurate designs, meeting client needs, and ensuring successful project execution in a competitive field.

What types of projects do entry level architects typically work on, and how much responsibility can I expect in my first year?

As an entry level architect, you'll often be involved in supporting larger projects such as commercial buildings, residential developments, or public spaces. Your responsibilities may include preparing drawings, creating 3D models, conducting site visits, and assisting with client presentations. While you'll work under the supervision of senior architects, you’ll have opportunities to contribute creative ideas and gradually take on more complex tasks as you demonstrate your capabilities. Collaboration is key, as you’ll frequently coordinate with engineers, contractors, and other team members to ensure projects meet design and compliance standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Architect jobs in California? The most popular types of Architect jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Architect jobs in California? For Entry Level Architect jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Architect jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Architect jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Architect jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Architect job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Architect job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,070 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Adjunct - AY27 Architecture Instructor

Los Angeles Community College District

Woodland Hills, CA • On-site

$89.72/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Los Angeles Community College District rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

LOS ANGELES COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT
PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
PART-TIME POSITION - POOL ANNOUNCEMENT
AY27- ARCHITECTURE INSTRUCTOR, ADJUNCT
APPLICATION CLOSING DATE: Open Until Filled
The Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) is the largest community college district in the United States and one of the largest in the world. The LACCD is comprised of nine colleges serving all or part of more than 40 cities in Southern California and spanning a service area of 882 square miles. Its colleges offer instruction to 225,000 students, annually, in 600 associates' degree and 400 certificate of achievement programs in general, career-technical and transfer education, and contribute significantly to the economic and social well-being of its students, the regional economy and the greater Los Angeles area. For more information about the LACCD, please visit our website at www.laccd.edu.
POSITION
The LACCD is accepting applications for Architecture Instructor positions at our Colleges for the 2027 Academic School Year. The purpose of this posting is to create a pool of qualified applicants so that when there is an actual opening at a one of our colleges, the college can then begin their review process by reviewing those applicants. If you have applied to previous pools in this discipline, you will need to apply to this pool to continue to be considered.
The LACCD is seeking dynamic, motivated and diverse candidates for part-time faculty positions to engage and educate our students. Successful candidates will collaborate, communicate and work as professionals with students, staff, faculty and administrators. Applicants with a demonstrated commitment to teaching and mentoring a diverse student population are strongly encouraged to apply.
During completion of the adjunct application, applicants will have the opportunity to indicate which of LACCD's colleges are of interest for employment. Qualified applicants may be offered an interview with Architecture Department members at one or more of LACCD's 9 colleges. For college locations, please visit the Our Colleges page at http://laccd.edu/About/Pages/Our-Colleges.aspx. Final determinations of part-time Architecture Instructor assignments are contingent upon enrollment, funding and class availability.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor'sdegree or higher in any field AND Two (2) years of full-time related professional experience
  • OR
  • Associate degree in any field AND Six (6) years of full-time related professional experience.

Note: The professional experience required must be directly related to the teaching assignment.
  • A sensitivity to and an understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students.

Verification of Experience:
Letter on company letterhead stationery indicating: Dates of employment. Position title. State if experience was full or part-time (if part-time, please indicate the weekly percentage or hours worked).
DUTIES
The adjunct instructor should be prepared to teach a range of courses within the Architecture discipline; promoting engaging and inclusive educational environments that support student learning. The successful candidate will be culturally responsive in interactions with students, faculty, staff, and community members who span a diverse range of languages, nationalities and ethnicities, socio-economic levels, ages, identities, abilities and educational experiences.
  • Must be able to teach entry level Architecture courses, including AutoCad, Freehand Drawing, Perspective Drawing, History of Architecture and General Introduction to Architecture.

COMPENSATION
The salary schedule for adjunct instructors begins at $89.72 per standard hour, plus an office hour differential of $20.99 per hour for classroom assignments. Applicants with a doctoral degree are eligible for a doctoral differential.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Applicants will be required to file the application using web-based software to create an applicant profile account, allowing documents to be saved and uploaded as attachments. Please go to https://laccd.csod.com/ats/careersite/search.aspx?site=6&c=laccd to file the application. After review of application materials by selection committee(s), applicants will be contacted if selected for interview(s).
For consideration in the selection process, all interested applicants must submit the following:
  1. Letter of interest that describes the applicant's interest in the position and details why the applicant is a good fit for the position;
  2. Current resume that summarizes how the applicant meets the qualifications of the position;
  3. Contact information for three (3) professional references;
  4. Copies of undergraduate and graduate transcripts; if invited to interview, candidate should be prepared to provide official transcripts; Note: All degrees must be granted by an accredited college or university in the United States. Transcripts from a foreign institution must be submitted with an approved evaluation of equivalency from a foreign evaluation service approved by California Commission on Teaching Credentialing.

Application materials will not be accepted by Fax, Mail or Email. Incomplete applications may be excluded from consideration. Equivalency determinations are not conducted for selection of adjunct faculty.
Employment is contingent upon verification of qualifications. LACCD and its Colleges reserve the right to modify and/or withdraw this position at any time. Final determination of part-time faculty assignments is contingent upon enrollment, funding and/or class availability.
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
For additional information, please contact AcademicJobs@email.laccd.edu.
Individuals protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) may request an accommodation in the selection/interview process with at least three business days prior notice. Documentation of the need for accommodation may be requested.
Equal Employment Policy
The policy of the Los Angeles Community College District is to implement equal opportunity to all qualified candidates for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, marital status, medical condition (cancer related), sexual orientation, or veteran status. Positive action will be taken to ensure that this policy is followed in all personnel practices including recruitment, hiring, placement, upgrading, transfer, demotion, and treatment during employment, rate of pay or other forms of compensation, selection for training, layoff or termination. A vigorous equal employment opportunity program will be maintained to ensure a diverse work force and to achieve expected representation of qualified members of under-represented groups through the implementation of specific result-oriented plans and procedures (Board Rule 101301).
The Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator

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