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How much does a Drafter make?

The average salary for a Drafter is $57,084 per year in the US.

Drafters play a key role in many industries by creating technical drawings. Their skills help companies design everything from buildings to machinery. The average yearly salary for a drafter is around $57,084. This figure shows what most drafters earn in a year.


The salary for drafters can vary based on experience and industry. Beginners might earn closer to $36,000, while those with more experience can earn over $100,000. Drafters who work in engineering or architecture often see higher salaries. Here is a breakdown of the salary range:

  • $36,000 for the bottom 10%
  • $41,886 for the bottom 25%
  • $47,773 for the median
  • $53,659 for the top 25%
  • $100,750 for the top 10%

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What are the highest paying cities for a Drafter?

If a job seeker is looking to become a Drafter, they should consider cities with higher average salaries. Washington, DC, offers the highest salary for Drafters, followed by San Diego, CA, and Sacramento, CA. These cities provide lucrative opportunities for professionals in this field. In addition to these top cities, several other locations also offer competitive salaries for Drafters. Los Angeles, CA, Seattle, WA, and Baltimore, MD, are among the cities with attractive compensation packages. Drafters can find good earning potential in these areas, too.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Drafter jobs, highlighting Washington, DC with the highest at $99,493 and Charleston, SC with the lowest at $69,912.
  1. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $99,493
    In Washington, DC, professionals in this field find opportunities to work in government projects. Companies like AECOM and WSP Global often seek skilled individuals for their expertise. This city offers a mix of architectural and engineering opportunities.
    Find Drafter jobs in Washington, DC


  2. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $85,869
    San Diego provides a vibrant environment for those in this field. Firms like HDR and AECOM focus on both commercial and defense projects. The city's strong economy supports a demand for skilled drafters.
    Find Drafter jobs in San Diego, CA


  3. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $78,394
    Sacramento offers a variety of roles in this field, particularly in public infrastructure. Firms like Jacobs and Clark Construction Group look for professionals with strong technical skills. Working here means contributing to important community projects.
    Find Drafter jobs in Sacramento, CA


  4. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $78,195
    Los Angeles is a hub for diverse opportunities in this field. Companies like AECOM and WSP Global work on a range of projects, from construction to urban planning. The city's dynamic environment means constant learning and growth.
    Find Drafter jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  5. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $74,732
    Seattle is known for its tech-forward approach, offering unique opportunities in this field. Companies such as Jacobs and AECOM focus on innovative projects. The city's focus on sustainability presents exciting challenges and growth.
    Find Drafter jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $74,157
    Baltimore provides opportunities in both urban and industrial settings. Companies like WSP Global and Clark Nexsen often seek skilled drafters. Working here allows professionals to contribute to significant infrastructure projects.
    Find Drafter jobs in Baltimore, MD


  7. Syracuse, NY
    Average Salary: $73,287
    Syracuse offers a stable environment for those in this field. Firms such as AECOM and WSP Global provide opportunities in both commercial and public sectors. The city's strong educational institutions also create a skilled workforce.
    Find Drafter jobs in Syracuse, NY


  8. Atlanta, GA
    Average Salary: $71,418
    Atlanta is a growing city with many opportunities in this field. Companies like AECOM and Clark Nexsen focus on various sectors, including healthcare and transportation. The city's rapid development offers a dynamic work environment.
    Find Drafter jobs in Atlanta, GA


  9. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $71,023
    Chicago presents numerous opportunities in this field, especially in architecture and construction. Firms such as Jacobs and AECOM look for skilled drafters. Working here means being part of iconic projects that shape the city's skyline.
    Find Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL


  10. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $69,912
    Charleston offers a mix of historic and modern opportunities in this field. Companies like WSP Global and Clark Construction Group focus on both commercial and residential projects. The city's unique charm adds to the professional experience.
    Find Drafter jobs in Charleston, SC

What are the best companies a Drafter can work for?

Apple offers one of the highest salaries for Drafter jobs, making it an attractive option for those in the field. Colliers Engineering & Design also provides a competitive salary for Drafters, along with a supportive work environment. Pratt & Whitney and Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. follow closely, offering substantial compensation for professionals in drafting roles. In addition to these top earners, companies like Walker Consultants and Entegee offer solid salaries for Drafters. These firms value skilled Drafters and often provide opportunities for growth and advancement. Electrical Consultants, Inc. and 1st St. NW Technical Staffing are also known for their fair compensation packages. Lastly, Johnson Controls offers a respectable salary, making it a viable choice for those seeking a stable career in drafting.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Drafter jobs, highlighting Apple with the highest at $227,273 and Johnson Controls with the lowest at $57,332.
  1. Apple
    Average Salary: $227,273
    Apple offers challenging Drafter jobs with opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects. With locations worldwide, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia, Drafters here gain experience in design and engineering.


  2. Colliers Engineering & Design
    Average Salary: $83,344
    Colliers Engineering & Design provides Drafter roles with a focus on sustainable design. The company operates across North America and Europe, offering Drafters diverse projects and growth opportunities.


  3. Pratt & Whitney
    Average Salary: $80,259
    Pratt & Whitney is a top company for Drafter jobs in aerospace engineering. Based in the U.S., the company offers jobs that contribute to significant advancements in aviation technology.


  4. Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
    Average Salary: $74,268
    Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. provides Drafter positions with a focus on transportation and infrastructure. The company operates nationwide, offering diverse projects and career development.


  5. Walker Consultants
    Average Salary: $68,727
    Walker Consultants offers Drafter jobs that focus on engineering and design. With offices across the U.S., the company provides opportunities to work on a variety of projects with a talented team.


  6. Entegee
    Average Salary: $63,071
    Entegee provides Drafter jobs with a focus on engineering and design. The company operates in the U.S., offering roles that contribute to meaningful projects and career growth.


  7. Project Resources Group, Inc
    Average Salary: $62,625
    Project Resources Group, Inc offers Drafter jobs that involve engineering and project management. Based in the U.S., the company provides opportunities for Drafters to work on diverse and challenging projects.


  8. Electrical Consultants, Inc.
    Average Salary: $61,892
    Electrical Consultants, Inc. offers Drafter jobs focused on electrical engineering. Operating in the U.S., the company provides roles that allow Drafters to contribute to infrastructure and building projects.


  9. 1st St. NW Technical Staffing
    Average Salary: $60,750
    1st St. NW Technical Staffing provides Drafter positions with a variety of engineering roles. With locations across the U.S., the company offers opportunities for career growth and diverse projects.


  10. Johnson Controls
    Average Salary: $57,332
    Johnson Controls offers Drafter jobs that focus on building technology and energy solutions. With operations worldwide, the company provides roles that allow Drafters to work on innovative projects.

How to earn more as a Drafter?

Becoming a Drafter means creating detailed technical drawings. These drawings guide engineers and construction workers. To earn more as a Drafter, consider these factors. These can help boost earnings and career opportunities.

First, gaining experience in specialized software programs is crucial. Software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks is often used. Mastery of these tools can lead to more job offers and higher pay. Second, obtaining certifications can enhance qualifications. Many employers value certifications in CAD (Computer-Aided Design). Certifications can make a Drafter more competitive.

Other factors include:

  • Continual learning
  • Networking
  • Seeking mentorship
  • Taking on leadership roles

Continual learning keeps skills sharp and relevant. Networking with other professionals can open doors to new opportunities. Seeking mentorship provides guidance and advice. Taking on leadership roles shows initiative and responsibility.

Currently 582 Drafter job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Drafter in the US?

Learn what a Drafter does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Drafter today.
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Drafter
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