Drafter Work

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Drafter work involves drawing the designs for different products as per the product specifications. Initially, drafters drew designs using pencil, paper, and geometry instruments. However, today, drafters use designing software to give an idea a shape. These drawings show detailed description of the product specifications - its shape, dimensions, size and other technical specifications.

Work Nature

The draftsman is expected to create unique designs based on the specifications. Work requires designing and creative skills. Coordination is important as drafters work with architects, civil engineers, surveyors, etc., and must take a feedback from each of them. Analysis and quick calculations are important too to fulfill work obligations in time.

Work Specialties

Drafters find opportunities in numerous industries. The chief duties of every drafter remain the same irrespective of the industry of his work. They gather blueprints, sketches, photographs and make note of the verbal explanations that present the design specifications. Based on these inputs they determine the measurements and draw the designs that present the form and shape of the product. The nature of industry and the work determines the specialty of the candidate. The common types are:

• Aeronautics: They draw designs that present the product specifications for aircrafts or missiles, used in manufacturing process
• Architecture: They draw designs that present the form of residential and commercial buildings
• Electronics: They draw designs for electronic instruments, components, circuits, and the schematics that help assemble the product
• Mechanical: They draw designs for machineries, equipments, assembly line and tools
• Civil: They draw designs for bridges, highways, water supply pipelines, sewage systems, flood control, etc.

Work Requirements

• Educational Qualifications: Candidate must study mathematics, science or computer graphics at high school level to be eligible for a training program in draftsmanship. Candidates can opt for courses in technical institutes, for associate degree from universities, or for on-the job training.

• Certifications: The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) provides for Drafter Certification Test that tests the candidates on designing aspects. Though not mandatory, candidates who possess this certificate are preferred.

• Skills: The candidate needs to possess an eye for perfection, competence in geometry and designing, strong organizational skills, analytical and communication skills, a visionary and data interpretation abilities, etc.

Work Conditions

• Drafters work from their offices. They are provided with a drawing board to make drawings manually or else a designing software to present drawings
• Drafter work is carried on for 40 hours per week. Overtime is a possibility as per the project deadlines.
• Travelling is not a part of a drafter's work profile. Their work expects them to sit in one place and make designs.
• Drafters are subject to certain health ailments such as back pain, wrist pain, strain on eyes, fatigue, etc.

Career Advancements

• Drafters begin work with entry level jobs that have less complexities and high level of supervision from seniors
• Later, they work as intermediate drafters where they must make complex calculations and determine the designs, with little supervision
• After some years of experience, drafters work on senior positions where they train and supervise the juniors on designing methods

Career Prospects

Drafters job opportunities are expected to slow down slightly in coming years. However, the prospects differ as per the specialty. Recruiters prefer candidates who possess the technical competence to work on different designing tools. Most drafters work for construction or manufacturing units that are sensitive to economic dynamics. Hence, there is a possibility that the drafters are given the pink slip in times of recession.

Distinction from Designer Work

The work of a drafter is often confused with the work of a designer. A designer designs the concept and set the parameters. He analyzes the requirements and shortcomings of the product utility and produces a suitable design. These parameters are forwarded to the draftsman who creates the actual designs and presents the parameters in pictorial form, such that even a layman can understand the product drawings.

Drafter work is interesting and provides an opportunity to combine your drawing and math skills. Hence, give this career a thought if you too boast of competence in designing and calculations.