How much does a Drafter make?
Drafters play a key role in many industries, creating detailed plans and designs. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to bring ideas to life. The average yearly salary for a Drafter is around $56,689. This means that, on average, Drafters earn a solid income.
The salary range for Drafters can vary. Some earn as little as $36,000, while others make over $100,000. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:
- 10% earn less than $41,818
- 25% earn less than $47,636
- 50% earn less than $53,455
- 75% earn less than $59,273
- 90% earn less than $65,091
What are the highest paying cities for a Drafter?

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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $85,351
In San Diego, professionals create detailed plans for construction and manufacturing. Companies like Qualcomm and General Dynamics offer many opportunities. The city's strong economy and tech industry make it a great place to work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $83,229
In Washington, DC, experts prepare technical drawings for government and private projects. Firms like AECOM and Parsons Corporation provide diverse work. The city's political and economic environment offers unique career opportunities.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,866
In Los Angeles, professionals design blueprints for the entertainment and construction sectors. Companies like Disney and AECOM are prominent employers. The city's vibrant culture and job market make it an exciting place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $74,207
In Seattle, specialists create detailed plans for tech and construction projects. Companies like Amazon and Boeing offer many opportunities. The city's innovative environment and strong economy attract many professionals.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $72,401
In Syracuse, professionals develop technical drawings for various industries. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Syracuse University offer diverse roles. The city's educational institutions and manufacturing sector provide a stable job market.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $70,444
In Santa Rosa, experts prepare detailed plans for construction and agriculture. Companies like Charles Schwab and Sonoma State University offer many opportunities. The city's growing tech scene and natural beauty make it an attractive place to work.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $69,571
In Atlanta, professionals create blueprints for the film and logistics industries. Companies like Coca-Cola and UPS offer many opportunities. The city's booming economy and diverse job market attract many specialists.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $69,521
In Baltimore, experts prepare technical drawings for healthcare and manufacturing. Companies like Johns Hopkins and Under Armour offer diverse roles. The city's rich history and growing tech sector provide a dynamic work environment.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $67,616
In Sacramento, professionals develop detailed plans for government and infrastructure projects. Companies like State Farm and the State of California offer many opportunities. The city's political environment and job market make it a great place to work.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $66,460
In Portland, specialists create blueprints for tech and construction projects. Companies like Nike and Intel offer many opportunities. The city's vibrant culture and strong economy attract many professionals.
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What are the best companies a Drafter can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $227,273
Apple offers exciting Drafter jobs with a focus on innovation and technology. Drafters at Apple work on creating detailed technical drawings for new products. Apple operates in many locations, including Cupertino, California, and other cities around the world.
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Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $79,394
Pratt & Whitney provides Drafter positions with a strong emphasis on aerospace engineering. Drafters here create blueprints for aircraft components. The company operates in several locations, including East Hartford, Connecticut, and other sites across the United States.
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Rise Technical Recruitment Limited
Average Salary: $67,679
Rise Technical Recruitment Limited offers Drafter jobs with a focus on technical precision. Drafters here work on producing detailed drawings for various engineering projects. The company operates in the United Kingdom, with offices in major cities.
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Souder Miller & Associates
Average Salary: $64,692
Souder Miller & Associates provides Drafter jobs with a focus on architectural and engineering drawings. Drafters here create plans for buildings and infrastructure. The company operates in several locations, including Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and other cities.
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Electrical Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $63,727
Electrical Consultants, Inc. offers Drafter jobs with a focus on electrical engineering. Drafters here work on creating detailed electrical schematics and plans. The company operates in several locations, including Houston, Texas, and other sites.
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Project Resources Group, Inc
Average Salary: $61,714
Project Resources Group, Inc offers Drafter jobs with a focus on project management. Drafters here create detailed plans and drawings for various projects. The company operates in several locations, including Denver, Colorado, and other sites.
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Bayland Buildings, Inc.
Average Salary: $60,888
Bayland Buildings, Inc. provides Drafter jobs with a focus on construction and architecture. Drafters here create detailed plans for building projects. The company operates in several locations, including San Francisco, California, and other sites.
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TechniPower, Inc.
Average Salary: $60,300
TechniPower, Inc. offers Drafter jobs with a focus on technical drawings and engineering. Drafters here create detailed plans for various engineering projects. The company operates in several locations, including Seattle, Washington, and other sites.
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1st St. NW Technical Staffing
Average Salary: $59,235
1st St. NW Technical Staffing provides Drafter jobs with a focus on technical precision and engineering. Drafters here create detailed plans and drawings for various projects. The company operates in several locations, including Washington, D.C., and other sites.
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Entegee
Average Salary: $58,387
Entegee offers Drafter jobs with a focus on engineering and technical drawings. Drafters here create detailed plans for various engineering projects. The company operates in several locations, including Austin, Texas, and other sites.
How to earn more as a Drafter?
A Drafter can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Specialization in a particular industry can lead to higher-paying jobs. For example, working in aerospace or construction often pays more than general drafting. Gaining experience with advanced software and tools also enhances a Drafter's value. Certifications in CAD or other specialized software can make a Drafter more attractive to employers.
Networking and building a strong professional reputation can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can lead to new job offers. Taking on leadership roles or projects that require advanced skills can also increase a Drafter's salary. Continuous education and staying updated with the latest industry trends ensure that a Drafter remains competitive in the job market.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a Drafter:
- Specialize in a high-demand industry
- Gain certifications in advanced software
- Network and build professional relationships
- Take on leadership roles and complex projects
- Continue education and stay updated with industry trends



