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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Architectural and Civil Drafters

Median Salary
61,820
Job Outlook
-1%

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

Prepare detailed drawings of architectural and structural features of buildings or drawings and topographical relief maps used in civil engineering projects, such as highways, bridges, and public works. Use knowledge of building materials, engineering practices, and mathematics to complete drawings.

What sectors do they work in?

Private for profit

88%

Self-employed

7%

State and local government

4%

Private not for profit

0%

Federal Government

0%

What is the job outlook?

Overall employment of drafters is projected to decline 1 percent from 2023 to 2033. About 16,900 openings for drafters are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Compensation

What is the typical salary range?

$34,810

10%

$61,820

Median

$82,410

90%

How does location impact how much salary?

Education

Which college majors best prepare you for this role?

  • Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General
  • Architectural Sciences and Technology, Other
  • Architectural Engineering Technologies/Technicians
  • Architectural and Building Sciences/Technology
  • CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician
  • Architectural Drafting and Architectural CAD/CADD
  • Architectural Technology/Technician
  • Civil Drafting and Civil Engineering CAD/CADD
  • 3-D Modeling and Design Technology/Technician

Skills and Interest

Which skill sets are the most valuable to possess?

Skills

  • Math and Science Skills

    High

  • Technology Design and Control

    High

  • Verbal Skills

    Mid

  • Leadership

    Mid

  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

    Mid

  • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

    Mid

What knowledge should you bring to the table?

  • Design
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Building and Construction
  • Computers and Electronics
  • Mathematics

What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

Workplace

  • Time Pressure

    High

  • Repetitiveness

    High

  • Level Of Competition

    High

  • Exposure to Job Hazards

    Low

  • Responsibility

    Low

  • Decision Making

    Low

  • Physical Activity

    Low

What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

Realistic

You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.

Conventional

You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.

Artistic

You love creating things and expressing yourself through art, writing and music.

RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.

Take the RIASEC Test

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Data supplied by Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center of Education Statistics, Defense Manpower Data Center (View our update schedule). Contact any business, college or military service branch to answer additional questions.