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How to Write a Drafter Job Description Sample

A Drafter, or Draftsperson, creates engineering designs, drawings, and other technical information for use in manufacturing, construction, and fabrication. Their duties include creating traditional designs from preliminary sketches, verifying that drawings meet required specifications, and creating technical documents and reports.

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What does a Drafter do?

A Drafter supports Engineers, Technologists, Architects, and other professionals by producing designs and drawings based on exact specifications. A Drafter’s work is mainly computer-generated. However, some Drafters still prefer to create manual drawings with pen and paper.

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Drafter duties and responsibilities

A Drafter creates engineering drawings and designs, and often specializes in a specific branch of engineering, like mechanical, architectural, structural, aerospace, or civil. Essential duties and responsibilities of a Drafter may include:

  • Create preliminary design sketches for conceptual analysis
  • Create engineering drawings and designs for production and manufacturing
  • Create design specifications, documentation, and material lists
  • Estimate material and production costs for designs
  • Prepare complete documentation packages for engineers
  • Verify drawings are correct to specifications, codes, and other regulations
  • Developing technical reports for engineers

Drafter skills and qualifications

A successful Drafter can take conceptual ideas and create formal drawings using their knowledge of design, materials, and fabrication. Because they typically take direction from a team of Engineers or Technologists, they need to be excellent at balancing multiple projects and prioritization. Some key skills of Drafters may include:

  • Ability to operate computer-aided design (CAD) software and manual drafting workstations
  • Ability to multitask and manage several projects at a time
  • Exceptional attention to detail and a high level of accuracy
  • Interpersonal skills to work within a team, taking direction from Project Managers and Engineers
  • Time management skills to complete error-free work within the required timeframe
  • Communication skills with an emphasis on reading and writing for creating documentation and reports
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to develop creative solutions

Drafter experience requirements

All Drafter positions require a firm foundation in drawing creation, computer-aided design (CAD), and general computer skills. Previous experience in a specific industry, such as architectural, mechanical, or structural design, will be required to be considered for the position. Other experience requirements vary based on the role and industry. In most cases, a Junior Drafter requires one to two years of experience, which can satisfy the requirement for the position at the entry level. A mid-level Draft typically has three to five years of experience. And a Senior Drafter will have over five years of hands-on design experience.

Drafter education and training requirements

A Drafter typically requires a college or university degree in drafting, engineering design, or other related disciplines. Some provinces and territories regulate the position, so the candidate may require certification. Most Drafter roles require training in AutoCAD, the most widespread computer-aided design software, as well as training in 3D modelling software to be considered for company-specific projects.

Drafter salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, average pay for a Drafter is $22.84 per hour, depending on factors like the industry, work experience and education, and the location.

Job description samples for similar positions

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Drafter job description FAQs

Who does a Drafter report to?

Depending upon the company structure and industry, a Drafter typically reports to a Project Manager or Engineering Manager. Engineering drawings often need to be approved and signed off by an Engineer with a P. Eng distinction. A Drafter creates the designs and drawings, but all work needs to be reviewed for accuracy, tolerances, and regulatory codes, based on the industry.

What should you look for in a Drafter resume?

When reviewing resumes, look for experience within your company’s industry. For example, if the company completes mechanical engineering projects, search for candidates with mechanical drawing experience. Check if the candidate has any formal education in drafting or mechanical design. Proficiency with AutoCAD software is a common requirement, as is 3D modelling software, which the candidate should clearly identify on their resume.

Do Drafters have different responsibilities in different industries?

A Drafter typically has the same core responsibilities within every industry. However, the type of materials used in the designs, such as metals, wood, and plastics, differ. The specifics of the drawing standards also change with each industry, based on what the Engineers are producing. For example, an HVAC Company Drafter produces very different drawings from a Mechanical Engineering Drafter. Otherwise, the duties of the position itself are relatively similar.

What qualities make for a good Drafter?

Skills that make for a successful Drafter include being detail-oriented, prioritizing multiple projects, and being highly creative. A good Drafter typically has excellent math skills and understands 3D concepts such as volume, capacity, and how an item is assembled. They are patient and take pride in being diligent and accurate.

Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

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