Architectural and Civil Drafters
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.
SOC: 17-3011.00
Common Job Titles
Architectural DrafterCivil DrafterComputer-Aided Drafting Designer (CAD Designer)Draftsman
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform detailed architectural and civil engineering drawings using CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and MicroStation to produce technical specifications.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate technical drawings for compliance with building codes, engineering standards, and project specifications in collaboration with architects and engineers across multiple project phases.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply mathematical calculations and geometric principles when preparing dimensioned drawings and topographical relief maps for civil engineering applications.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate design feasibility and technical accuracy of architectural plans by integrating knowledge of engineering practices, building construction methods, and material properties.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate computer-aided design systems, digitizers, and three-dimensional modeling software to create, modify, and finalize technical drawings under project deadlines.Proficient
- KnowledgeSynthesize architectural concepts and engineering requirements into detailed construction documents incorporating creative design solutions while adhering to regulatory constraints.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret technical specifications, engineer sketches, and geospatial information to translate conceptual designs into precise, scaled drafting outputs.Proficient
- KnowledgeOrganize drafting workflows and project documentation managing multiple concurrent projects while meeting deadlines and prioritizing revisions.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze building materials, structural features, and topographical data to determine appropriate drafting approaches for highway, bridge, and public works projects.Developing
- MindsetEngage in collaborative project coordination with architects, engineers, and construction teams maintaining effective communication to ensure design intent and technical accuracy.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Architectural and Civil Drafters (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
109,550
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $44,040 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $98,190 |
| Workers on average earn | $68,860 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Design4.3/5
- Building and Construction4.3/5
- Engineering and Technology4.2/5
- English Language3.8/5
- Computers and Electronics3.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe AcrobatAdobe After EffectsAdobe Creative Cloud softwareAdobe IllustratorAdobe InDesignAdobe PhotoshopAutodesk AutoCADAutodesk AutoCAD Civil 3DAutodesk RevitBentley MicroStationCDassault Systemes SolidWorksESRI ArcGIS softwareExtensible markup language XMLMicrosoft .NET FrameworkMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft VisioMicrosoft WindowsMicrosoft WordSAP softwareTrimble SketchUp Pro
Technology Skills
100 Plus Hatch Pattern LibraryARCOM MasterspecAdobe LiveMotionAlias Wavefront Design StudioAnimation softwareAutoDesSys form ZAutodesk 3d Studio VizAutodesk 3ds Max
Tools & Equipment
Architects' scalesBacklit digitizersCompassesComputer aided design CAD multi-unit display graphics cardsDesktop computersElectronic scalesEstimating keypadsFlexible curves