What to Expect as a Junior Architect
Becoming a junior architect is an exciting milestone, but it comes with its own set of challenges and surprises.
While everyone’s experience is unique, there are common themes you’ll notice when you talk to others in the field.
In this post, I’ll share insights from my journey and what I’ve learned from peers to help you understand what to expect as a junior architect—especially if you’re just starting out.
The Basics of Being a Junior Architect in the Philippines
In the Philippines, aspiring architects are required to log at least two years of experience before taking the licensure exam. This experience is meticulously recorded in an architecture logbook.
Where you work—whether in a small firm, a corporate office, or in the province versus the city—can significantly shape your experience.
Each environment offers unique learning opportunities, so it’s worth exploring your options.
Scope of Experiences: Small Firms vs. Big Firms
Small Firms
Working in a small design-build firm often means a broader scope of work.
With smaller teams, you’ll likely handle multiple aspects of a project—from design conceptualization to construction supervision.
This was my experience during the five months I spent in a small firm in the province.
It was incredibly wholesome, giving me hands-on experience in every stage of a project.
For someone preparing for the board exams, this is a huge advantage because you’ll learn the practical applications of what you studied in school.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. Smaller firms can sometimes mean long hours and underwhelming pay, as resources are stretched thin.
While the experience is invaluable, be mindful of burnout if the workload becomes overwhelming.
Big Firms
After my time in a small firm, I transitioned to a corporate job in the city.
While the work environment was completely different, it offered new lessons that were just as valuable.
In a corporate setting, your role may be more specialized, meaning you won’t get as much variety in your tasks.
However, the focused nature of the work allows you to develop expertise in specific areas that weren’t covered in university.
Both environments have their pros and cons. A small firm teaches you to be resourceful and adaptable, while a corporate setting offers structure and access to resources.
Salary Expectations
Let’s talk about money. Salaries for junior architects vary widely depending on the location and company.
Province vs. City: Rates in the province are generally lower compared to those in the city.
Range: Entry-level salaries can range from as low as ₱8,000-₱9,000 (below minimum wage) to around ₱17,000 for higher-paying companies.
When negotiating, remember to:
Research the average rates in your area. This makes sure you’re not asking for too low of a salary.
Know your worth: Highlight your skills and experiences during interviews.
Offer a salary range instead of a fixed amount to allow for flexibility.
Negotiating your salary can feel daunting, but think of it as advocating for the value you bring to the table.
And when negotiating salaries, don’t be afraid to go beyond the rates on the market (especially if you’re negotiating a range anyway).
Side note: Junior architects who are still doing their on-the-job training may not always get salaries. But some companies do provide them.
Work-Life Balance
Achieving work-life balance as a junior architect depends on several factors:
Your Priorities: Family time, personal hobbies, or self-care—you’ll need to consciously carve out time for what matters most.
Location: Living closer to work can save you hours in commute time. If your budget allows, consider staying in a dorm or apartment near the office.
Workload: Some firms expect long hours, while others have healthier work environments.
Remember that it’s okay to set boundaries. If you’re in an unhealthy environment and have the option to leave, don’t hesitate to seek a workplace that respects your time and well-being.
The Learning Curve
One of my professors used to say, “University only teaches you 30% of what you need to know.”
Now that I’ve been in the working world, I can confidently say that’s true.
You’ll encounter things on the job that no lecture could have prepared you for—real-world problems, client interactions, and unexpected challenges on-site.
Mistakes may happen, but every mistake is an opportunity to grow.
Final Thoughts
Being a junior architect is a journey filled with lessons, growth, and new experiences.
Whether you’re working in a small firm or a corporate setting, each environment has something valuable to offer.
Here’s a quick recap of what to expect:
Small firms offer a broad scope of work but may come with heavier workloads and lower pay.
Big firms provide structure and specialization but might limit the variety of your tasks.
Salaries vary greatly, so know your worth and negotiate wisely.
Work-life balance depends on your priorities, location, and workload—be mindful of burnout.
Learning doesn’t stop after university—real-world experience is your best teacher.
If you’re just starting out, remember to embrace the journey.
Mistakes and challenges are part of the process, and with each step, you’re becoming the architect you aspire to be.
What’s your experience as a junior architect? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
