What does an AutoCAD Drafter do?
AutoCAD Drafters create technical drawings that help translate engineering and architectural designs into detailed plans used in building products and structures. They typically specialize in a particular industry, such as civil or mechanical engineering. AutoCAD Drafter job duties require them to work in office settings, but they may occasionally need to travel to job sites to obtain or verify measurements and other relevant information. Their day-to-day responsibilities include collaborating with engineers and other professionals to clarify design specifications, using CAD software to produce drawings and checking design drawings to verify they’re accurate and meet industry standards.
AutoCAD Drafter skills and qualifications
AutoCAD Drafters use technical expertise and soft skills to succeed at the job, including:
-
Extensive working knowledge of CAD software, such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks, to be able to prepare technical drawings efficiently
-
Ability to analyze design sketches and specifications to create technical drawings
-
Strong attention to detail to ensure drawings are accurate according to specifications
-
Communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with architects, engineers and other professionals
-
Time management skills to work with multiple projects and competing deadlines
-
Knowledge of engineering practices and industry standards
-
Advanced mathematical skills
AutoCAD Drafter experience requirements
Entry-level AutoCAD Drafter positions typically don’t require previous work experience. However, employers look for candidates with CAD software experience, which post-secondary education in drafting provides. For Senior AutoCAD Drafter positions, employers usually seek candidates with 2 years of experience. An AutoCAD Drafter with at least 5 years of experience and leadership skills may be a good candidate for an AutoCAD Drafting Supervisor who manages a team of drafters.
AutoCAD Drafter education and training requirements
Most AutoCAD Drafters have completed a 2-year associate degree or 1-year certificate program in computer-aided design and drafting (CADD). These programs include coursework in mathematics, engineering, design and CAD software. Many AutoCAD Drafters also pursue professional certification from the American Design Drafting Association by taking an exam and meeting the training and employment requirements. In addition, some certifications demonstrate a Drafter’s proficiency in CAD software, such as the Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) credential.
AutoCAD Drafter salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, an AutoCAD Drafter earns about $53,204 per year. The exact salary may vary depending on the candidate’s experience, qualifications and location.
Job description samples for similar positions
If the AutoCAD Drafter job description doesn’t meet your requirements, below are job descriptions for related roles:
AutoCAD Drafter job description FAQs
What are the different types of AutoCAD Drafter?
AutoCAD Drafter careers can branch into different engineering fields, resulting in several types of CAD Drafters. One of them is Architectural Drafters who prepare technical drawings of buildings and other structures. Another type is Civil Drafters who produce drawings for land development projects, such as streets and sewer systems. Electrical Drafters create drawings showing the location of wiring and equipment within a building. And finally, Mechanical Drafters prepare detailed diagrams of mechanical devices and systems, from furnaces to power plants.
What qualities make a good AutoCAD Drafter?
A strong AutoCAD Drafter understands engineering and architectural concepts, is adept in using CAD software and can read and interpret blueprints and other technical drawings. They enjoy learning and improving their technical skills. In addition to being technically proficient, a good AutoCAD Drafter is detail-oriented and has excellent problem-solving skills to create accurate drawings that meet industry standards. Communication, interpersonal and time management skills are also essential.
Who does an AutoCAD Drafter report to?
In most cases, an AutoCAD Drafter directly reports to the CAD Drafting Supervisor, who manages a team of drafters. Since AutoCAD Drafters usually work on multiple projects, they may also indirectly report to Project Managers and Engineers.
What makes a good AutoCAD Drafter job description?
A good AutoCAD Drafter job description specifies the requirements for the position, such as education and experience, as well as a list of duties and responsibilities. It’s also helpful to include working hours, schedule and compensation information. Additionally, a good AutoCAD Drafter job description should be clear and concise so potential candidates can easily understand what the position entails.
*Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Please note that we are not your recruiting or legal advisor, we are not responsible for the content of your job descriptions, and none of the information provided herein guarantees performance.