How much does a Drafter make?
Drafters create technical drawings and plans for various industries. They use specialized software and follow exact standards. These professionals can find work in architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction. The demand for skilled drafters is steady, leading to good job opportunities.
The average yearly salary for drafters is around $57,503. This number can vary based on experience, location, and the specific field. Here is a look at how salaries break down by experience:
- Beginners: Starting at $35,500
- Intermediate: Around $48,136
- Experienced: Up to $73,409
- Senior: As high as $105,000
As drafters gain experience, their salary increases. This growth reflects their growing skills and value in the industry.
What are the highest paying cities for a Drafter?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $99,530
In Washington, DC, you can find work as a technical artist in government agencies. They use detailed drawings for infrastructure projects. Notable employers include the Department of Transportation and various architectural firms.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $87,117
San Diego offers exciting opportunities for those in drafting. Companies like Qualcomm and General Dynamics need skilled professionals. They work on creating plans for construction and technology projects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $80,441
Los Angeles provides a vibrant environment for drafters. Here, you can join tech giants like Lockheed Martin and Boeing. They focus on designing innovative products and building plans. The city's diverse industries offer various opportunities.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $78,578
In Sacramento, drafters contribute to the state’s infrastructure projects. Companies like IBM and the California State Legislature need professionals to create precise plans. The city values detailed technical work for public projects.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $75,917
Seattle is a hub for technology and engineering. Drafters here work for companies like Amazon and Boeing. They play a key role in designing and planning new projects. The tech industry offers many opportunities for skilled professionals.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $75,810
Syracuse has a strong manufacturing sector. Drafters in this city work with companies like Syracuse University and local auto parts manufacturers. They create detailed plans for machinery and industrial products.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $75,074
Baltimore offers a mix of opportunities for drafters. Local companies like Johns Hopkins University and the Port of Baltimore need skilled professionals. They focus on infrastructure and urban development projects.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $72,372
Chicago is a major city for drafters. Here, you can work for companies like Boeing and Exelon. They need professionals to create detailed plans for buildings and infrastructure. The city’s diverse industries offer many job opportunities.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $72,201
Charleston provides a unique opportunity for drafters. Companies in the maritime and tourism sectors need skilled professionals. They focus on designing plans for buildings and historic restorations. The city’s rich history offers interesting projects.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $71,873
In Atlanta, drafters work for companies like Delta Air Lines and Coca-Cola. They create plans for new buildings and facilities. The city’s fast-growing tech industry also offers opportunities for skilled professionals.
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What are the best companies a Drafter can work for?

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WSP
Average Salary: $86,606
WSP offers excellent Drafter jobs with a focus on infrastructure projects. They operate worldwide, with major offices in North America, Europe, and Asia. Their Drafters create detailed plans and designs for various infrastructure projects.
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Colliers Engineering & Design
Average Salary: $81,168
Colliers Engineering & Design provides rewarding opportunities for Drafters. They have a strong presence in North America and Europe. Drafters here work on creating detailed designs for commercial and industrial projects.
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Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
Average Salary: $76,409
Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. offers competitive Drafter positions. They work on infrastructure and transportation projects across the United States. Drafters here are vital in creating detailed plans and designs.
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Walker Consultants
Average Salary: $68,727
Walker Consultants has openings for Drafters who focus on civil and structural engineering. They operate nationwide in the United States. Drafters here are essential in designing infrastructure and building projects.
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Souder Miller & Associates
Average Salary: $65,333
Souder Miller & Associates is hiring Drafters for various engineering projects. They work mainly in the Midwest and Northeast regions of the United States. Drafters here create detailed plans for infrastructure and building projects.
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1st St. NW Technical Staffing
Average Salary: $64,406
1st St. NW Technical Staffing provides opportunities for Drafters across various industries. They have offices in major cities across the United States. Drafters here work on creating plans for a range of engineering projects.
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Sargent & Lundy
Average Salary: $55,655
Sargent & Lundy offers Drafter positions with a focus on energy projects. They operate mainly in the United States and India. Drafters here create detailed designs for energy infrastructure projects.
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TechniPower, Inc.
Average Salary: $54,917
TechniPower, Inc. has Drafter positions available for those interested in infrastructure projects. They have offices in the United States. Drafters here create detailed plans for construction and engineering projects.
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Cavco Industries Inc.
Average Salary: $54,500
Cavco Industries Inc. offers Drafter jobs with a focus on modular building projects. They operate nationwide in the United States. Drafters here create detailed plans for modular and prefabricated building projects.
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Paramount Placement
Average Salary: $53,375
Paramount Placement provides Drafter positions across various engineering fields. They operate in multiple states across the United States. Drafters here create detailed designs for engineering and construction projects.
How to earn more as a Drafter?
Becoming a skilled Drafter opens up many opportunities to increase earnings. With dedication and the right strategies, it is possible to enhance both job satisfaction and financial rewards. One key way to earn more is through gaining experience and expertise in specialized fields such as architectural, mechanical, or civil drafting. Specializing can lead to higher-paying jobs and more complex projects.
Another important factor is continually improving technical skills. Staying updated with the latest software and tools used in drafting can make a Drafter more efficient and valuable. Employers often pay more for these advanced skills. Networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to job opportunities and potential raises. Seeking out mentorship and feedback from experienced Drafters can also help in honing skills and improving work quality. Lastly, pursuing additional certifications can make a Drafter more competitive and capable of commanding higher pay.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Drafter:
- Specialize in a niche: Focus on areas like architectural, mechanical, or civil drafting to stand out.
- Enhance technical skills: Stay updated with the latest software and tools.
- Network with professionals: Build connections to find better job opportunities.
- Seek mentorship: Get feedback and guidance from experienced Drafters.
- Get certified: Pursue additional certifications to increase market value.



