AIA reports interns for architect firms now earn $45,000 a year. Do not tell my staff.

Just received an email from the AIA. Apparently, before it got bad, it got better for architects. Mid-level architects benefitted the most.

Average compensation:                                   2002                  2005                   2008

Senior designer/project manager                   $77,300                $85,800            $98,800

Architect/designer                                         $52,600                 $57,700            $71,600

Intern                                                               $35,300                $38,800            $45,400

Okay, interns make $45,400? Really? I know that there is an apprentice-like phase in the process but in magazine land we call that “editorial assistant.” I looked on a semi-ridiculous called site simplyhired.com to see what other folks are making these days. These numbers are adjusted for Dallas: designers, $61,000; decorators $31,000; architects $82,000; gardeners $32,000; school crossing guards $30,000; clowns $39,000.  $39,000 FOR CLOWNS? Really? They should make much more. 

�