Drafters use software to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings. Most workers specialize in architectural, civil, electrical, or mechanical drafting and use technical drawings to help design everything from microchips to skyscrapers.

Although drafters spend much of their time working on computers in an office, some may visit jobsites in order to collaborate with architects and engineers. Most drafters work full time.

Drafters typically need specialized training, which can be accomplished through a technical program that leads to a certificate or an associate's degree in drafting.

The median annual wage for drafters was $52,720 in May 2015.

Employment of drafters is projected to decline 3 percent from 2014 to 2024. Although drafters will continue to work on technical drawings and documents related to the design of buildings, machines, and tools, new software programs are making drafters and related professionals more efficient, thus requiring fewer workers. Competition for jobs is expected to be strong.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for drafters.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of drafters with similar occupations.

Learn more about drafters by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.