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What does a freelance Autodesk Revit specialist do?

Freelance Autodesk Revit specialists work with and closely support architects, engineers, interior designers, and contractors to solve design and construction problems. By creating a model of a structure or design creation in 3D using Autodesk Revit software, opportunities, problems, and alternatives can be determined before any real work goes into building a final version of that structure.

By leveraging the software’s building information modeling (BIM) capability, Autodesk Revit specialists take a holistic approach to creating and managing information associated with a particular project. Autodesk Revit makes it possible to take all information and incorporate it into a working model, streamlining the design to construction process and saving money, time, and resources. BIM technology plays a key role in building design and civil engineering visualization, making Autodesk Revit specialists key members of the construction and planning teams.

What skills do I need to become a freelance Autodesk Revit specialist?

There are many skills 3D modeling specialists possess, positioning them as in-demand professionals across different design industries. While no two client projects are identical, there are common skills that can help an Autodesk Revit specialist to be successful:

• An understanding of dimensions and rules. Freelancers specializing in 3D modeling must master rules regarding height, width, and depth. Although software like Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD offer plenty of automation benefits, it’s still necessary to understand dimensions. A specialist needs to be able to evaluate dimensions and rules to ensure that the final designs are accurate.
• The ability to perform basic element creation. Specialists working in Autodesk Revit must replicate real-world objects and ideas as part of any project. As a result, it’s important for the specialist to be able to perform basic element creation, incorporating the items’ characteristics to create lifelike environments in Revit.
• Creativity. While Autodesk Revit experts partner with architects, engineers, and other design specialists to bring their designs to life, many of the design specialists rely on the creativity the Revit expert possesses to articulate those ideas within a 3D environment.
• The ability to follow directions. A capable freelance Autodesk Revit specialist must be able to follow directions and workflows. While a Revit specialist is well-versed in using the 3D modeling software, they must still adhere to the requirements of the client, whether they be engineers or architects.
• Communication skills. Communicating effectively is essential in any complex engagement. Revit specialists must not only listen intently and comprehend what’s being communicated, they must also convey clearly their ideas and suggestions. To ensure the best possible outcomes for each engagement, Revit specialists must facilitate and commit to two-way communication.
• Attention to detail. Along with the ability to follow directions and excellent communication skills, freelance Revit specialists must exhibit great attention to detail. Leveraging this skill will ensure accuracy and help streamline the overall production process of any engagement.
• Problem-solving skills. Architects, engineers, designers, and contractors regularly face challenges during the course of most projects. With exceptional problem-solving skills, the freelance Autodesk Revit specialist can be a valuable asset to help clients quickly address problems and keep complex projects on track.

What are the job responsibilities of an Autodesk Revit specialist?

Clients will normally ask their freelance Autodesk Revit specialist to handle a number of key duties during the course of their project. While clients and projects may differ, most require their Revit specialist to manage specific job responsibilities:

• Create drawings and construction documents in adherence with company and industry standards as well as local and state codes
• Develop and manage Revit models in order to produce documents for construction purposes
• Communicate regularly with team members, clients, and stakeholders
• Oversee multiple projects in a collaborative environment
• Conduct reviews of all work with a focus on continuous improvement
• Meet all project deadlines and secure additional resources when necessary
• Perform material quantity take-offs
• Collaborate with the project engineers while preparing drawings

To ensure that an Autodesk Revit or BIM specialist can fulfill these responsibilities, job descriptions and job postings often have specific requirements for ideal candidates:

• Minimum number of years of experience
• Portfolio of past work on previous Autodesk Revit projects and initiatives
• Experience with certain software and platforms, like BIM 360

Should I get a degree or certification to become a freelance Autodesk Revit specialist?

In addition to developing advanced skills and gaining experience via employer and client work, it may be helpful to get a degree and/or professional certification to help your Upwork profile stand out.

While a degree or certification is not a requirement for most executive assistant jobs and positions, obtaining a formal education can prove helpful when starting your freelance administrative support career.

Certain degrees and specializations are particularly helpful for an Autodesk Revit specialist:

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in computer design, drafting, architecture, engineering, graphic design, or an equivalent field of study from an accredited college or university
• Autodesk Certified Professional in Revit for Architectural Design—offered by Autodesk