Drafters, All Other
Drafters in this category create technical drawings and plans that are not covered by more specialized drafting roles. They work in various industries—manufacturing, construction, engineering, and design firms—using computer-aided design (CAD) software and traditional drafting tools to produce detailed specifications for projects and products.
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A day in the work
A drafter's week typically involves converting sketches and specifications from engineers or architects into precise technical drawings. They use CAD software to create 2D and 3D models, review designs for accuracy and completeness, and revise drawings based on feedback. Tasks include checking dimensions, organizing drawing files, preparing documentation for production or construction, and collaborating with project teams to clarify design intent and ensure specifications are buildable.
Who this work suits
You thrive when working with technical details and precision. You have strong spatial reasoning and attention to accuracy, and you work well translating abstract concepts into concrete visual plans. You're comfortable learning specialized software and enjoy problem-solving within defined parameters.
What it takes
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $62,550 | $77,840 | $96,050 | 350 |
| California | $61,160 | $73,390 | $90,850 | 1,750 |
| Wisconsin | $55,640 | $73,040 | $80,470 | 200 |
| Washington | $60,600 | $72,800 | $82,920 | 520 |
| New York | $62,080 | $72,190 | $94,310 | 610 |
| Massachusetts | $62,590 | $72,100 | $79,980 | 170 |
| New Hampshire | $60,840 | $70,710 | $85,850 | 70 |
| Arizona | $52,640 | $70,070 | $83,200 | 430 |
| Utah | $52,900 | $69,420 | $86,310 | 170 |
| Louisiana | $53,990 | $68,470 | $88,380 | 1,200 |
| Michigan | $56,590 | $67,750 | $87,960 | 360 |
| Mississippi | $63,560 | $67,730 | $92,570 | 70 |
All 40 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- AutoCAD Certified User — Autodesk, Inc.
- Autodesk Certified User (ACU) Maya — Autodesk, Inc.
- Autodesk Certified Professional in Revit for Mechanical Design (ACP) — Autodesk, Inc.
- Autodesk Certified User - Revit (ACU-R) — Autodesk, Inc.
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against drafters, all other and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 17-3019.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.