How much does a Drafter make?
Drafters play a key role in many industries, creating detailed plans and drawings. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to help engineers and architects. The average yearly salary for a drafter is around $56,000. This means that many drafters earn a good living.
Drafters can earn different amounts based on their experience and where they work. Here are some average salaries for drafters at different experience levels:
- Entry-level drafters earn about $36,000 per year.
- Drafters with a few years of experience earn around $47,000 to $53,000 per year.
- Experienced drafters with several years in the field can earn between $64,000 and $75,000 per year.
- Top-earning drafters can make over $97,000 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Drafter?
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $83,292
In San Diego, professionals create detailed plans for construction projects. Companies like AECOM and Jacobs Engineering Group offer exciting opportunities. The city's strong economy and diverse industries provide a dynamic work environment.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $81,284
In Washington, DC, experts prepare technical drawings for government and private projects. Firms such as Parsons Corporation and AECOM Technology Corporation are prominent employers. Working here offers a chance to contribute to significant infrastructure projects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,951
Los Angeles offers a vibrant setting for those in the drafting field. Professionals here work on projects for companies like AECOM and AECOM. The city's diverse economy provides a wide range of opportunities in architecture and engineering.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $74,223
In Syracuse, NY, drafting professionals contribute to the city's infrastructure projects. Companies such as AECOM and AECOM Technology Corporation are key employers. The city's focus on education and technology makes it a unique place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $72,964
Seattle offers a dynamic environment for drafting professionals. Companies like AECOM and AECOM Technology Corporation are leading employers. The city's tech-driven economy and scenic beauty provide a rewarding work experience.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $72,616
In San Francisco, drafting professionals work on innovative projects for companies like AECOM and AECOM Technology Corporation. The city's tech industry and diverse culture offer a stimulating work environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $68,453
Santa Rosa, CA, provides a supportive environment for drafting professionals. Companies such as AECOM and AECOM Technology Corporation offer opportunities. The city's focus on agriculture and technology creates a balanced work atmosphere.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $67,905
In Sacramento, drafting professionals contribute to the state's infrastructure. Companies like AECOM and AECOM Technology Corporation are major employers. The city's political and economic center offers a unique work experience.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $67,214
Albuquerque offers a growing market for drafting professionals. Companies such as AECOM and AECOM Technology Corporation provide opportunities. The city's blend of technology and natural beauty makes it an attractive place to work.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $65,219
In Atlanta, drafting professionals work on a variety of projects for companies like AECOM and AECOM Technology Corporation. The city's booming economy and diverse industries offer a dynamic work environment.
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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 and blueprints for new products. Apple operates globally, with major offices in the United States, Europe, and Asia.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $81,073
CyberCoders provides Drafter positions that emphasize precision and accuracy in technical drawings. Drafters here support various industries, including engineering and architecture. CyberCoders has offices across the United States, offering diverse opportunities.
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Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $79,394
Pratt & Whitney is known for its high-paying Drafter jobs in the aerospace industry. Drafters create detailed technical drawings for aircraft components. The company operates in the United States and internationally, with a strong presence in aerospace hubs.
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Moffatt & Nichol
Average Salary: $70,868
Moffatt & Nichol offers Drafter jobs with a focus on civil engineering and infrastructure projects. Drafters work on creating detailed plans for construction projects. The company operates across the United States, providing opportunities in various locations.
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Synerfac Technical Staffing
Average Salary: $69,462
Synerfac Technical Staffing provides Drafter positions with a focus on technical accuracy and detail. Drafters here support various industries, including manufacturing and engineering. The company operates in the United States and offers diverse opportunities.
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DAVRON LLC
Average Salary: $67,000
DAVRON LLC offers Drafter jobs with a focus on precision and technical drawings. Drafters work on creating detailed plans for engineering projects. The company operates in the United States, providing opportunities in various locations.
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People People
Average Salary: $66,568
People People provides Drafter positions with a focus on accuracy and detail. Drafters here support various industries, including architecture and engineering. The company operates in the United States, offering diverse opportunities.
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Rise Technical Recruitment Limited
Average Salary: $65,722
Rise Technical Recruitment Limited offers Drafter jobs with a focus on technical drawings and blueprints. Drafters work on creating detailed plans for engineering projects. The company operates in the United States, providing opportunities in various locations.
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Souder Miller & Associates
Average Salary: $64,692
Souder Miller & Associates provides Drafter positions with a focus on precision and technical accuracy. Drafters here support various industries, including engineering and architecture. The company operates in the United States, offering diverse opportunities.
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Electrical Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $64,165
Electrical Consultants, Inc. offers Drafter jobs with a focus on electrical engineering and technical drawings. Drafters create detailed plans for electrical systems. The company operates in the United States, providing opportunities in various locations.
How to earn more as a Drafter?
A Drafter can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Specialization in a particular industry, such as architecture or engineering, can lead to higher-paying opportunities. Gaining certifications in software tools commonly used in drafting can also enhance job prospects and salary potential. Networking with industry professionals and staying updated on the latest trends and technologies can open doors to better-paying positions. Continuous learning and skill development are crucial for career advancement. Seeking out roles in high-demand areas or regions can also result in higher compensation.
Another important factor is gaining experience and building a strong portfolio. Drafters who take on challenging projects and demonstrate their ability to deliver high-quality work are more likely to be offered higher salaries. Collaborating with other professionals and contributing to successful projects can also boost earning potential. Drafters should also consider negotiating their salaries and benefits, as well as exploring opportunities for career advancement within their organizations. By focusing on these areas, Drafters can work towards earning more in their careers.
