How much does a Drafter make?
Drafters create technical drawings and plans for various industries. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce detailed blueprints. The average yearly salary for a drafter is around $56,185. This salary can vary depending on experience, location, and industry.
Drafters in the top 10% earn more than $97,500 a year. Those in the bottom 10% make less than $36,000. Most drafters fall between these two amounts. Some industries, like construction and engineering, often pay more. Urban areas with higher living costs also tend to offer higher salaries. Experience and specialized skills can lead to higher pay as well. Drafters who advance to supervisory roles may see significant salary increases.
What are the highest paying cities for a Drafter?
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $84,281
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 make it a great place to work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $81,284
In Washington, DC, experts prepare technical drawings for government and private projects. Working with firms like AECOM and Parsons Corporation can lead to impactful career growth. The city's political and economic environment offers unique professional experiences.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $76,530
Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for those who design architectural and engineering projects. Companies such as AECOM and WSP Global provide diverse opportunities. The city's vibrant culture and large market make it an exciting place to work.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $73,342
In Seattle, professionals create precise plans for various projects. Working with companies like AECOM and WSP Global can lead to significant career advancement. The city's tech-driven economy and beautiful surroundings offer a unique work experience.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $72,616
San Francisco provides a stimulating environment for those who design technical blueprints. Companies like AECOM and Jacobs Engineering Group offer many opportunities. The city's innovative spirit and diverse industries make it a great place to work.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $72,364
In Syracuse, experts prepare detailed plans for construction and engineering projects. Working with local firms can lead to a rewarding career. The city's strong community and growing economy offer a supportive work environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $69,991
Santa Rosa offers a pleasant environment for those who create detailed plans. Working with local companies can lead to a fulfilling career. The city's beautiful surroundings and growing industries make it a great place to work.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $68,226
In Atlanta, professionals design technical drawings for various projects. Companies like AECOM and WSP Global offer many opportunities. The city's fast-growing economy and diverse industries make it an exciting place to work.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $67,883
Sacramento provides a supportive environment for those who create detailed plans. Working with local firms can lead to a rewarding career. The city's growing economy and diverse industries make it a great place to work.
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Fayetteville, AR
Average Salary: $65,452
In Fayetteville, experts prepare technical drawings for construction projects. Working with local companies can lead to a fulfilling career. The city's strong community and growing economy offer a supportive 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 work on creating detailed technical drawings and plans. 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 jobs with a focus on engineering and design. Drafters here create blueprints and technical drawings for various projects. The company operates in the United States, with offices in major cities.
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Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $79,394
Pratt & Whitney offers Drafter jobs in the aerospace industry. Drafters work on designing aircraft components and systems. The company operates in the United States and internationally.
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Moffatt & Nichol
Average Salary: $70,868
Moffatt & Nichol provides Drafter jobs in engineering and construction. Drafters here create detailed plans and drawings for infrastructure projects. The company operates in the United States and Canada.
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Synerfac Technical Staffing
Average Salary: $69,000
Synerfac Technical Staffing offers Drafter jobs with a focus on engineering and manufacturing. Drafters create technical drawings and specifications. The company operates in the United States.
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DAVRON LLC
Average Salary: $67,000
DAVRON LLC provides Drafter jobs in the engineering and construction sectors. Drafters here work on creating detailed plans and blueprints. The company operates in the United States.
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Rise Technical Recruitment Limited
Average Salary: $65,722
Rise Technical Recruitment Limited offers Drafter jobs in various engineering fields. Drafters create technical drawings and plans for projects. The company operates in the United Kingdom.
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Electrical Consultants, Inc.
Average Salary: $65,261
Electrical Consultants, Inc. provides Drafter jobs in electrical engineering. Drafters here create detailed electrical plans and schematics. The company operates in the United States.
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Souder Miller & Associates
Average Salary: $64,692
Souder Miller & Associates offers Drafter jobs in engineering and architecture. Drafters create detailed plans and drawings for construction projects. The company operates in the United States.
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SAIC
Average Salary: $62,546
SAIC provides Drafter jobs in engineering and technology. Drafters here create technical drawings and plans for various projects. The company operates in the United States and internationally.
How to earn more as a Drafter?
Aspiring Drafters can enhance their earning potential through various strategies. Gaining experience and expertise in specialized areas of drafting can lead to higher-paying opportunities. For instance, working in industries such as architecture, engineering, or construction often commands higher salaries. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest drafting software and techniques also improve job prospects and earning capacity.
Networking and professional development play a crucial role in increasing earnings. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers can open doors to better job offers. Additionally, obtaining certifications and advanced degrees can significantly boost a Drafter's salary. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to the profession and a higher level of skill.
Here are five factors that can help a Drafter earn more:
- Specialization: Focus on specific areas like architectural drafting, mechanical drafting, or civil drafting.
- Experience: Accumulate years of experience to become a more valuable asset to employers.
- Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications to enhance credibility and marketability.
- Networking: Build a professional network to discover new job opportunities and gain referrals.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest software and drafting techniques to remain competitive.
