11 Tips to Land a Job in Architecture or Interior Design

Breaking into the architecture industry in Australia can feel overwhelming. After years of study, long nights in the studio, and refining your portfolio, many graduates find themselves asking the same question: what now?.

If you're a recent graduate of architecture or interior designer or nearing the end of your studies, here’s a guide to help you navigate your transition into the professional world.

This article is brought to you by CO-academy — a 4-week career program by CO-architecture, designed to support architecture and interior design graduates as they transition from study to practice.

Designer Jobs Australia: Perfect Your Portfolio (and Tailor It!)

As an architectural graduate or interior designer, your portfolio is your ticket in. But more than that, it’s a reflection of how you think, communicate, and solve problems. Avoid the mistake of submitting the same portfolio to every role. Instead:

• Tailor your portfolio to suit the studio’s work style and focus.
• Highlight 2–3 projects that showcase your design thinking, technical ability, clarity in presentation, and demonstrate your knowledge of materials, finishes, or current industry trends.
• Keep it clean, concise, and readable (PDF, under 10MB if possible).

Pro Tip: Don’t forget to include a brief intro page about you, your skills, and what excites you about architecture—such as the exciting projects or opportunities you hope to be part of.

Make sure the visuals are strong but not overcrowded. The story behind each project—how you responded to a brief, problem-solved, applied practical skills, and adapted—matters just as much as the final product.

Understanding the Industry: What Today’s Employers Want

In the fast-paced world of architecture, knowing what employers are looking for can make all the difference in your job search. Today’s leading firms in New South Wales and beyond are seeking graduate architects who can seamlessly join a dynamic team and contribute to delivery-focused architecture projects. It’s not just about having a degree—employers want passionate architects who are eager to get involved in design development, can handle the demands of mixed-use projects, and are comfortable with construction documentation.

To stand out, job seekers should highlight their ability to work effectively in a small team environment, communicate clearly, and take initiative when tackling new challenges. Being technically strong and able to meet deadlines is essential, but so is showing a genuine interest in the industry’s latest trends and technologies. Employers value candidates who are proactive, adaptable, and committed to ongoing learning—qualities that signal you’re ready to grow with the team and contribute to the firm’s success.

When crafting your resume and cover letter, tailor your experience to reflect these priorities. Show how your skills and experience align with the needs of the practice, and demonstrate your understanding of the architecture industry in New South Wales. By doing so, you’ll position yourself as a valuable addition to any team, ready to take on the responsibilities of a graduate architect and make a real impact.

Common Portfolio Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Your portfolio is your chance to shine, but even the most talented architectural graduates can fall into common traps that hold them back. One frequent mistake is overloading your portfolio with documentation work, rather than focusing on projects that highlight your design skills and creativity. Remember, firms want to see your ability to tackle mixed-use projects and your unique approach to design—not just your technical documentation.

Another pitfall is sending out the same portfolio for every job. Failing to tailor your portfolio to the specific position or firm can make it seem like you’re not truly interested in the role. Take the time to research each practice, understand their design philosophy, and curate your portfolio to reflect their focus and values.

Organisation matters, too. A cluttered or confusing portfolio can distract from your best work. Make sure your projects are easy to navigate, with clear explanations of your role and the skills you contributed. And don’t forget to include a concise, targeted cover letter that ties your experience to the position you’re seeking.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll create a portfolio that not only showcases your abilities but also demonstrates your passion for architecture and your commitment to landing the right job.

Write a Thoughtful Cover Letter

Studios receive dozens of applications. A generic letter won’t cut through the noise.

Use your cover letter to show:

• Why you’re genuinely interested in that practice.
• How your interests align with their design philosophy.
• A short, personal story about why you chose architecture can be surprisingly impactful. For example, describe yourself as a passionate architect, driven by creativity and a commitment to innovative design.

If you are seeking a full-time position, mention your dedication to long-term growth and your desire to contribute meaningfully to the team.

In your letter, explain how you see yourself playing a key role in the firm's projects, emphasising your ability to collaborate and make a significant impact on the success of the team.

Keep it to 3–4 paragraphs max. Think of it as an elevator pitch with a bit of heart.

Know Where to Look

Not all job opportunities are listed on big career sites. Try:

• Design-focused job boards like CO-architecture & Seek
• Social media (Instagram and LinkedIn are goldmines)
• Studio websites (many post jobs directly, and often share details about their offices in Sydney, Melbourne, and other locations, as well as the services they provide such as architectural design, interior design, and more)
• Word of mouth – let people know you’re job hunting!

Networking in real life and online gives you access to roles before they’re even advertised. Comment on posts, attend talks, or even send a friendly DM to a designer you admire.

Tips for the Experienced Graduate: Standing Out with Extra Skills

If you’re an experienced graduate architect, you already have a solid foundation—but to truly stand out in the architecture job market, it’s all about going the extra mile. Employers in Sydney, Melbourne, and across Australia are looking for candidates who bring more than just the basics to the table.

One way to set yourself apart is by mastering emerging technologies, such as Google’s suite of design and collaboration tools. These skills are increasingly valued in a collaborative team environment, where seamless communication and coordination with senior architects and clients are key. Demonstrating your ability to lead aspects of project involvement—from design development through to construction documentation—shows that you’re ready to take on greater responsibility.

Experience with commercial projects can also give you an edge, offering a broader range of opportunities for career growth. Highlight your ability to work within a team, manage deadlines, and contribute to the delivery of complex projects. Showcasing your initiative, adaptability, and commitment to ongoing learning will signal to employers that you’re not just looking for a job—you’re focused on building a long-term career in architecture.

By emphasising these extra skills and your proactive approach, you’ll position yourself as a valuable asset to any architecture practice, ready to achieve your goals and contribute to the future of the industry.

Prepare for Interviews (Beyond the Basics)

Expect to talk through your portfolio, but also be ready to discuss:

• Your process – how you approach a brief, how you collaborate.
• Your understanding of the studio’s work, recent projects, and their office environment.
• The software you use and your level of proficiency.

Mistake to Avoid: Focusing only on your uni projects without linking them to real-world constraints or team collaboration.

Try to treat interviews as conversations, not interrogations. Be prepared with a few thoughtful questions of your own, such as asking about the studio's culture.

Get Comfortable with Rejection (and Feedback)

You won’t get every job. That’s normal. What matters is learning from each experience.

If you don’t hear back, follow up politely after a week or two. Ask for feedback. Some will reply, others won’t, but the few insights you do get can be game-changing.

Resilience is one of the most underrated traits in early-career designers. Stay open, and try not to take it personally.

Build Industry Connections Early

It’s often said that architecture is a people business. And it’s true. Attend events, join competitions, follow studios online, and reach out to designers whose work inspires you. Don’t hesitate to contact studios or professionals directly for advice or mentorship—a short, genuine message can open doors.

Hot Tip: CO-academy regularly hosts mentoring events, workshops, and project-based programs to help you meet people in the industry and grow your confidence.

And don’t underestimate the value of your peers—some of the strongest connections you’ll make are with other grads navigating the same path.

Show You’re More Than Your Degree

Studios aren’t just looking for talent – they’re looking for attitude. Show that you’re curious, adaptable, and ready to grow. Mention any side projects, volunteer work, or competitions you've entered. These give studios insight into who you are beyond the drawing board.

Being proactive counts. Start a small passion project, collaborate with a friend, or publish a mini research piece on something you care about in design.

Consider Professional Support

Sometimes, a little guidance goes a long way. Whether it’s preparing for an interview, improving your CV, or simply understanding what studios are really looking for—programs like CO-academy exist to provide that extra support.

With access to experienced mentors, live training sessions, and real project opportunities, CO-academy helps you build the confidence, connections, and clarity to land your first role.

Final Word

Finding your first job in architecture takes time, patience, and persistence. But you don’t have to do it alone. The transition from student to professional is tough, but with the right tools and support, it’s absolutely achievable.

Ready to take the next step? Check out CO-academy and join a growing network of graduates who are shaping the future of Australian design.