Architectural Drafter Job Description, Training - SkillPointe

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◀ ▶ Architectural Drafter What does an Architectural Drafter earn in my area? Ask Jeremy What Does an Architectural Drafter Do?

If you’re a problem-solver with a creative streak, here’s an exciting career path to consider. Drafters use computer-aided design (CAD) software to transform designs into technical drawings. In the construction industry, drafters work with architects and engineers. Their skills are needed in many fields, which is why drafters generally specialize. Architectural drafters create drawings for buildings or structures, but there are also civil, aeronautical and mechanical drafters.

Architectural drafters — also called CAD drafters, CAD operators or AutoCAD drafters — create technical drawings that pull together all the needed information about how to build a commercial, residential or industrial structure. They bring accuracy and precise specifications to an idea that started as a sketch.

Architectural CAD drafters often specialize in types of buildings or even types of materials. Increasingly, many use building information modeling (BIM) software that creates 3D models.

Why is this career exciting? Because the drawings that drafters create are the starting point for a building. The architectural draftman’s work is what site managers, engineers and managers use to set everything else in motion. The architectural draftman’s precision matters at every stage of the process, so he or she needs to be an excellent communicator even after the drawings are done — especially if changes are needed.

Read on to learn more about what it takes to become a drafter, and hear from an expert who's done the job for years.

Find Training Start Your Own Business Talk with Jeremy, our AI specialist, about becoming an Architectural Drafter. Start An architectural drafter uses computer-aided drafting (CAD) software to create the drawings that make an architect’s vision a reality. (Credit: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock)

Responsibilities

• Translate specifications created by engineers and architects into a plan
• Design plans using computer-aided design (CAD) or traditional drafting methods
• Add details based on knowledge of building techniques, building codes and site requirements
• Go to the construction site before and during construction to understand site requirements and changes
• Spell out type and amount of needed materials
• Ensure work complies with laws and regulations
• Prepare cost estimates

How To Become an Architectural Drafter: FAQs

What are the requirements to become an architectural drafter? Ask Jeremy

High school graduates who want to be drafters typically earn an associate of applied science degree in drafting or a similar certificate program from a community college or technical school. Both paths include instruction in design fundamentals, sketching and CAD software.

This is one of the best careers that can be obtained with an associate degree. (There are many others, too!)

How long does it take to become an architectural drafter? Ask Jeremy

An associate degree generally requires about two years of full-time education. Certificate programs vary in length but generally require less time to complete than an associate degree. This relatively short window of preparation with the payoff of a good salary is one of the reasons architectural drafter is one of the best skilled trade jobs.

What other qualifications do I need? Ask Jeremy

High school classes in math, science, computers, drawing, design or graphics will be useful if you plan to be an architectural draftsman. If you get the opportunity to work around an architectural office, take it!

What about certifications? Ask Jeremy

Certification isn’t required for drafters, but it may give you an advantage with employers. The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) certifies drafters.

What skills and qualities would make someone a good fit for this job? Ask Jeremy

You are more likely to succeed in this line of work if you:

• Are creative
• Are detail-oriented
• Have good interpersonal and presentation skills
• Are good at math
• Enjoy problem-solving
• Have strong computer skills
• Manage your time well and work efficiently on deadline

How does AI impact Architectural Drafters? Ask Jeremy

This career has a moderate impact from AI because design software can automate drafts. However, human creativity and collaboration are still essential. AI helps by reducing errors and speeding up design work.

The bottom line:

If you have drawing or design skills and want to become a crucial player in the creation of buildings or any kind of structure, this career could be for you. It's not only satisfying to see the finished product; it's also exciting to be a part of a team on a fast-paced project. Check out the training options below to get started!

What's it like to be a drafter?

Coby Godfrey always had an appreciation for architecture.

"I had a desire to be a fully licensed architect but started college in my 30s so the full architecture program wasn’t in the cards." Instead, he got an associate degree, and that turned out to be a great move.

The residential design and draftsman stays busy. Because the company he works for is small, team members wear many hats in a given day, from drafting to on-site measurements to drawing contracts. It's a role that is ever-changing yet still fulfilling.

"I don’t just design buildings," says Coby. "I design places where people will live their lives and raise their children — and that matters to me."

Are there certification requirements for this career?

Ask our AI Career Specialist

Find Architectural Drafter Training In Your Area

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