Architectural Drafter Overview

What does an Architectural Drafter do?

Architectural drafters create technical drawings based upon the designs of architects and engineers incorporating measurements and building codes for construction. They use CAD software to print schematics used by architects, building contractors, and engineers and enter data to create 3D design models. They prepare drawings, charts, and records with CAD equipment and conventional drafting techniques.

Architectural drafters visit construction sites to perform measurements and calculate dimensions as needed and collaborate with architects and construction engineers to ensure adherence to building specifications and industry regulations. They keep abreast of the latest developments and technologies in architectural design, provide information to contractors and construction crews throughout the planning and building process, and prepare additional drawings and answer questions under an architect’s supervision. Architectural drafters need at least an associate's degree in drafting and relevant on-the-job experience.

EducationBachelor's Degree
Work/Life Balance
3.6 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.4 ★
Avg. Experience2-4 years

How much does an Architectural Drafter make near United States?

Confident
$58,046 /yr
Total Pay
$55,362
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$2,685
 /yr

Additional Pay

$58,046

 / yr
$42K$81K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Architectural Drafter Career Path

Learn how to become an Architectural Drafter, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Architectural Drafter
$58,046/yr
Senior Architectural Drafter
$68,198/yr
Architectural Drafter

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
21%
2 - 4
63%
5 - 7
8%
8+
8%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Architectural Drafter Insights

Read what Architectural Drafter professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
Yodya Karya (Persero)
Architectural Drafter
Mar 13, 2023

“overtime work but luckily i got a good leader and he accompany my team to finish the job”

VA3 DesignVA3 Design
ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST
Jun 12, 2023

“Out of three partners/owners: Wellington are Grace are not good people to work for.”

Prica Global EnterprisesPrica Global Enterprises
Junior Architectural Technologist
Oct 18, 2022

“Good pay and work experience”

TDSTDS
Architectural Drafter
Jan 17, 2022

“good work and life balance”

RÀ
ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST
Jun 27, 2022

“Working remote 100% allows the employees to balance work and life better.”

K Paul ArchitectK Paul Architect
ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST
May 5, 2023

“environment is good if you enjoy working on different retail projects”

Sutcliffe ConstructionSutcliffe Construction
Senior Architectural Technologist
Nov 24, 2021

“No career progression at all”

Mark'sMark's
ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST
Oct 12, 2021

“Its a good starting point”

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Architectural Drafter Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of an Architectural Drafter

When working as an Architectural Drafter, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Structural Revit, MEP AutoCAD, CAD Software, Drawing, and BIM.

The most similar professions to Architectural Drafter are:
  • Project Architect
  • Architectural Designer
  • Architect
  • Landscape Architect

The most common qualifications to become an Architectural Drafter include a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.

Related Careers

Project Architect
$96,810
No skills overlap
Architectural Designer
$70,175
25% skills overlap
Architect
$121,864
No skills overlap
Landscape Architect
$69,787
13% skills overlap

Architectural Drafter Jobs