How much does a Drafter make?
Drafters create detailed drawings used in all types of manufacturing. If you're thinking about becoming a drafter, you might be curious about the pay. On average, a drafter makes about $56,858 a year. This average includes all experience levels and types of work.
The salary can vary based on experience and industry. Newer drafters may earn less, while those with many years of experience can make more. Drafters who work in engineering, architecture, or manufacturing often see different pay rates. Some earn over $100,000 a year, while others may make less than $50,000. The best salaries usually go to those who have more experience or specialize in a certain area.
What are the highest paying cities for a Drafter?

-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $96,890
In Washington, DC, professionals often work on projects for the government. Companies like AECOM and Clark Nexsen are looking for skilled workers. The work here often involves precise design for public buildings and infrastructure.
Find Drafter jobs in Washington, DC
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $86,168
San Diego offers a dynamic environment for those in this field. Key employers such as AECOM and WSP USA focus on maritime and defense projects. Workers here create detailed plans for both commercial and military structures.
Find Drafter jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,866
Los Angeles provides a vibrant setting for creating detailed designs. Companies like AECOM and Jacobs Engineering seek experienced individuals. The city’s diverse projects range from residential homes to large commercial developments.
Find Drafter jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $74,516
Seattle offers a strong market for skilled drafters. Companies such as AECOM and HNTB Corporation look for professionals for various projects. The city’s tech scene also offers opportunities in designing innovative office spaces.
Find Drafter jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $72,401
Syracuse provides a balanced environment for those in this profession. Companies like AECOM and HNTB Corporation seek individuals for diverse projects. Working here means designing both residential and commercial structures.
Find Drafter jobs in Syracuse, NY
-
Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $70,444
Santa Rosa offers a welcoming environment for drafters. Companies such as AECOM and WSP USA look for skilled workers. Here, professionals often work on residential projects and winery designs.
Find Drafter jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
-
Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $69,528
Atlanta presents a fast-growing market for drafters. Companies like AECOM and WSP USA seek experienced individuals. The city’s diverse projects range from commercial buildings to infrastructure.
Find Drafter jobs in Atlanta, GA
-
Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $69,521
Baltimore offers a diverse range of projects for professionals in this field. Key employers such as AECOM and Clark Nexsen look for skilled workers. Here, drafters often work on a mix of residential and public infrastructure projects.
Find Drafter jobs in Baltimore, MD
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $68,916
Sacramento offers a stable environment for those in this profession. Companies like AECOM and HNTB Corporation seek experienced individuals. The city’s diverse projects range from residential homes to government buildings.
Find Drafter jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $67,514
Portland provides a creative environment for drafters. Companies such as AECOM and WSP USA look for skilled workers. The city’s focus on sustainable design offers unique opportunities in both residential and commercial sectors.
Find Drafter jobs in Portland, OR
What are the best companies a Drafter can work for?

-
Apple
Average Salary: $227,273
Apple offers exciting Drafter roles, focusing on product design and development. Apple operates globally with headquarters in Cupertino, California. It also has locations in various cities worldwide.
-
Colliers Engineering & Design
Average Salary: $84,862
Colliers Engineering & Design provides Drafter positions with opportunities in architectural and engineering projects. They have offices in major cities like New York, London, and Sydney.
-
Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $79,257
Pratt & Whitney offers Drafter jobs in aerospace engineering. This company operates worldwide, with significant locations in the U.S., including Connecticut and Indiana, as well as international sites.
-
Rise Technical Recruitment Limited
Average Salary: $70,958
Rise Technical Recruitment Limited provides Drafter roles, focusing on technical design and engineering. The company has offices in the U.K., including Manchester, Birmingham, and London.
-
Souder Miller & Associates
Average Salary: $65,000
Souder Miller & Associates offers Drafter positions in engineering and architectural projects. They operate primarily in the U.S., with offices in states like Virginia and Colorado.
-
Electrical Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $64,031
Electrical Consultants, Inc. offers Drafter jobs, focusing on electrical engineering. This company has offices across the U.S., including in California and Texas.
-
Power Engineers, Inc.
Average Salary: $62,698
Power Engineers, Inc. provides Drafter roles in power plant design and engineering. They have offices in the U.S., including in Michigan and Pennsylvania.
-
Entegee
Average Salary: $62,400
Entegee offers Drafter positions, focusing on engineering and design. This company operates in the U.S., with significant locations in Pennsylvania and New York.
-
Project Resources Group, Inc
Average Salary: $62,133
Project Resources Group, Inc. provides Drafter roles in engineering and construction projects. They have offices in the U.S., including in Texas and California.
-
Bayland Buildings, Inc.
Average Salary: $60,758
Bayland Buildings, Inc. offers Drafter jobs, focusing on architectural and engineering design. This company operates primarily in the U.S., with offices in California.
How to earn more as a Drafter?
A Drafter can improve earnings by focusing on key areas of professional development. Attention to detail and high precision in creating blueprints and technical drawings can set a Drafter apart. Continuous learning and skill enhancement increase value in the job market. Building a diverse portfolio that showcases different types of projects can attract higher-paying opportunities.
Networking plays a crucial role in discovering new job prospects. Engaging with professional associations and attending industry events can lead to higher-paying positions. Offering specialized services, such as 3D modeling or CAD drafting, can command higher fees. Employers often value Drafters who take the initiative to improve their technical skills through certifications and training programs.
Here are key factors to consider for earning more:
- Enhance technical skills.
- Build a diverse portfolio.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Pursue specialized certifications.
- Offer specialized services.



