Also called: Mechanical Designer, CAD Drafter
Makes the detailed drawings and 3D models that show exactly how to build machine parts.
An engineer hands you a rough sketch of a new pump bracket. You build it in 3D CAD, add every hole size, tolerance and material note, and produce drawings the machine shop can follow without asking a single question.
BLS May 2024 median $68,510; percentiles approximate.
Associate's degree (2-year), about 2 years after high school. Associate in drafting or CAD technology.
Ways in: 2-year college, Trade school, Certification. Training cost: Under $15k.
Majors to look at: Drafting & Design Technology, CAD Technology.
Growing slowly (about 0% over 10 years). BLS projects little or no change for drafters overall.
Medium risk in 5 years, high in 10. AI and generative CAD now create drawings from 3D models, sharply reducing drafter jobs; complex details still need people.
Classes: Drafting or CAD, Geometry, Shop class, Computer science.
Official data: O*NET occupation 17-3013.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.