How much does a Drafter make?
Drafters play a vital role in various industries, turning ideas into detailed plans and drawings. Their work helps ensure that projects are completed correctly and efficiently. If you're considering a career as a Drafter, it's good to know what kind of salary you might expect. Drafters can earn a solid income, with the average yearly salary being about $57,778. This average helps give a clear picture of what many Drafters earn in a year.
The salary range for Drafters can vary based on several factors. Some Drafters earn around $34,000, while others make more than $101,000 each year. Here's a closer look at the distribution of salaries:
- 7.64% of Drafters earn about $34,000 or less.
- 13.05% earn between $34,000 and $40,000.
- 15.98% earn between $40,000 and $46,000.
- 18.15% earn between $46,000 and $52,000.
- 12.84% earn between $52,000 and $58,000.
- 11.62% earn between $58,000 and $64,000.
- 6.42% earn between $64,000 and $70,000.
- 4.68% earn between $70,000 and $76,000.
- 2.16% earn between $76,000 and $83,000.
- 1.50% earn between $83,000 and $89,000.
- 0.94% earn more than $89,000.
What are the highest paying cities for a Drafter?
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $103,288
In Washington, DC, professionals can find rewarding work as technical creators. The government often needs skilled workers. Companies like AECOM and General Dynamics work with draftspeople.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $82,454
Chicago offers a thriving market for those designing buildings. The city's rich history means there are many projects to work on. Firms like Skidmore, Owings & Merrill value talented drafters.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $81,983
Sacramento provides many opportunities in drafting. The state government and local businesses need skilled drafters. Companies like URS Corporation and Clark Construction hire for drafting roles.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $75,434
Minneapolis values creative minds in drafting. The city's architecture offers many projects. Professionals can work with firms like EYP Architecture & Engineering and 360 Architecture.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $75,408
Charleston offers a mix of historic and modern drafting projects. The city's growth means many new buildings. Firms like Goldbelt CORA and Figg Bridge Designers hire drafters.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $74,516
Seattle's tech and architecture scene offers exciting drafting roles. The city's design projects are varied. Professionals can work with companies like TLG and Magnusson Klemencic Associates.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $72,566
In Honolulu, drafters play a key role in the island's unique projects. The tropical setting offers distinctive design challenges. Companies like W.M. Keck and DesignHawaii hire drafters.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $71,908
Baltimore provides many drafting opportunities. The city's revitalization projects need skilled hands. Professionals can work with firms like Hunton Andrews Kurth and Populous.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $71,757
San Diego offers a dynamic environment for drafters. The city's diverse projects range from residential to commercial. Companies like AECOM and Perkins+Will hire drafters.
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Billings, MT
Average Salary: $71,534
Billings provides steady work in drafting. The city's growth offers many building projects. Professionals can work with firms like HDR and Turner Construction.
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What are the best companies a Drafter can work for?
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Kimley-Horn
Average Salary: $76,755
Kimley-Horn offers rewarding opportunities for Drafters. They work on a variety of projects in urban planning and transportation. With offices in multiple states, Kimley-Horn provides diverse experiences and growth opportunities for its employees.
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Colliers Engineering & Design
Average Salary: $74,542
At Colliers Engineering & Design, Drafters are vital to the design and development process. The company focuses on sustainable and innovative design solutions. They have offices across the country, offering Drafters a chance to work on dynamic projects.
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1st St. NW Inc.
Average Salary: $67,143
1st St. NW Inc. values its Drafters for their precision and attention to detail. They work on a range of projects, from commercial to industrial. With locations in major cities, employees have access to diverse job opportunities and collaborative environments.
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Hose McCann Communications
Average Salary: $66,364
Hose McCann Communications seeks skilled Drafters for their design and construction projects. They have a strong focus on quality and innovation. The company operates in several regions, providing Drafters with a variety of project experiences and career advancement opportunities.
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Actantel
Average Salary: $59,927
Actantel offers diverse roles for Drafters, focusing on architecture and engineering projects. They emphasize teamwork and professional development. With offices nationwide, Actanel provides Drafters with opportunities to work on varied projects and grow their careers.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $57,321
Paramount Placement provides multiple opportunities for Drafters to work on creative and challenging projects. They prioritize employee satisfaction and professional growth. With locations across the country, Drafters can find diverse roles and environments to match their skills.
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Sargent & Lundy
Average Salary: $56,214
Sargent & Lundy offers rewarding roles for Drafters in the engineering and construction sectors. They focus on high-quality design solutions and sustainability. The company operates in several regions, offering Drafters a chance to work on impactful projects and advance their careers.
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Cavco Industries, Inc.
Average Salary: $55,138
Cavco Industries, Inc. provides opportunities for Drafters in manufacturing and construction. They value innovation and quality in their projects. With locations in various states, employees can find diverse roles and collaborative work environments.
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Ampirical
Average Salary: $53,826
Ampirical offers various roles for Drafters, focusing on engineering and design. They prioritize a collaborative work environment and employee development. The company operates in multiple locations, giving Drafters access to varied projects and growth opportunities.
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Corle Building Systems
Average Salary: $53,250
Corle Building Systems provides rewarding opportunities for Drafters in the construction and manufacturing sectors. They value precision and quality in their projects. With locations across the country, employees can find diverse roles and collaborative work environments.
How to earn more as a Drafter?
Becoming a skilled Drafter opens doors to various opportunities, but earning more requires specific actions. Improving skills and gaining experience can lead to higher pay. Here are some ways to boost earnings as a Drafter.
Firstly, gaining certifications can increase earning potential. Professional certifications in drafting software or specialized fields can make a candidate more attractive to employers. These credentials show dedication to the craft and often lead to higher-paying jobs.
Another factor is specializing in a high-demand area. Drafters who specialize in fields such as civil engineering, architecture, or mechanical design often command higher salaries. Staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies can also enhance earning power. Networking with professionals and joining relevant associations can open up new job opportunities and salary negotiations.
Continuing education is also key. Enrolling in advanced courses or workshops can lead to higher-paying roles. Employers often prefer candidates with ongoing education and training. Working on personal projects and building a strong portfolio can also improve job prospects and increase earning potential.
Lastly, seeking positions with companies that value skilled professionals can lead to higher compensation. Researching and targeting companies known for competitive salaries and benefits can make a significant difference in earnings.
By focusing on these factors, Drafters can position themselves for better job opportunities and higher pay.
