As the construction industry continues to suffer the effects of a prolonged economic downturn, the architecture profession has been hit especially hard. Consequently, the declining demand for design services has resulted in an average increase in total compensation of only $1,600 between 2008-2011 for staff architecture positions, according to the 2011 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Compensation Survey.
"In addition to reducing benefits offered to employees, architecture firms have been faced with devastating conditions and had to make difficult reductions in expenses," said AIA Chief Economist, Kermit Baker, PhD, Hon. AIA. "Salary freezes or reductions, scaled back hours, the conversion of full-time to part-time or contract positions, and mandatory furloughs have all taken a toll on the compensation of architects."
The complete 2011 AIA Compensation Survey report is available for purchase through the AIA Bookstore. The report is in PDF format and costs $195 for AIA members and $249 for nonmembers. Nine regional reports are available for $95 each for AIA members and $125 for nonmembers.