Architectural and Civil Drafters prepare detailed drawings of architectural and structural features of buildings or civil engineering projects. Their job description typically includes creating detailed drawings, using software to design plans, collaborating with architects and engineers, ensuring designs meet specifications and standards, and making necessary revisions to drawings based on feedback. They may specialize in either architectural drafting (focusing on buildings) or civil drafting (focusing on infrastructure projects like roads and bridges).
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $37,730.00 |
25th percentile | $46,700.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $54,260.00 |
75th percentile | $62,100.00 |
90th percentile | $78,080.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $18.14 |
25th percentile | $22.45 |
median (50th percentile) | $26.09 |
75th percentile | $29.86 |
90th percentile | $37.54 |
To become an Architectural or Civil Drafter, individuals typically need at least an associate degree in drafting or a related field. These programs often include courses in architectural and engineering principles, drawing and design techniques, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and drafting standards. Some drafters also complete certificate programs which can take a year or less. While a high school diploma is usually required for entry into these programs, completing college-level education provides a more comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects necessary for this role. On-the-job training is common to enhance skills and familiarity with specific industry practices and software tools. Training for Architectural and Civil Drafters commonly involves learning CAD software extensively, honing technical drawing skills, understanding relevant building codes and regulations, and becoming proficient in industry-specific terminology. This training often occurs through a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on experience, either through internships or entry-level positions. Continued learning is essential due to evolving technologies and processes within the architecture and engineering fields, necessitating ongoing professional development to stay current in the industry.