Civil drafters: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

Civil drafters prepare topographical maps used in construction and civil engineering projects, such as highways, bridges, and flood-control projects.

Education Required
Drafters generally need to complete postsecondary education in drafting. This is typically done through a 2-year associates degree from a technical institute or community college.
Job Outlook
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 7% (As fast as average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.)
Licenses/Certifications
The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers certification for drafters. Although not mandatory, certification demonstrates competence and knowledge of nationally recognized practices. Certifications are offered for several specialties, including architectural, civil, and mechanical drafting.
Median pay: How much do Drafters make?
$53,480 Annual Salary
$25.71 per hour

Careers for Drafters

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  • Architectural drafters
  • Automotive design drafters
  • Blueprint tracers
  • Building drafters
  • CAD designers
  • CAD drafters
  • Circuit board drafters
  • Civil computer-aided design and drafting technicians
  • Die designers
  • Drafting layout workers
  • Draftsmen
  • Draughtsmen
  • Electrical computer aided design and drafting technicians
  • Electrical drafters
  • Electrical systems drafters
  • Electronic drafters
  • Electronics drafters
  • Gage designers
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  • Marine drafters
  • Mechanical design drafters
  • Mechanical drafters
  • Printed circuit board drafters
  • Structural drafters
  • Tool and die designers
  • Tool designers

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