At A Glance: Electrical Drafters
Electrical drafters develop specifications and instructions for installation. Such workers require one to two years of training with experienced workers, and sometimes individuals are required to complete an apprenticeship program. Electrical drafters earn approximately $28.88 an hour, and the need for them grows at an average rate of 5% to 9% per year. Positions related to electrical drafters include civil drafters, electronic drafters, mechanical drafters, civil engineering technicians, and mapping technicians.
Entry Level Requirements
Certificate
To become an electrical drafter, a student must complete a post-secondary certificate for entry level employment. Some more advanced positions will require an associate's degree and/or a bachelor's degree as well.
Energy production is a
Top 3
Career field in the TEAM region, including Coal, Oil and Gas.
How much can I make?
Hourly Rate: $17 - $48/HR.
Job Details: Electrical Drafters
Video produced and provided by CareerOneStop.org
Commonly Performed Tasks
Electrical drafters utilize a variety of drafting equipment to design drawings, diagrams, specifications, and cross-sections for installation crews and assemble and review drawings. They make sure that drawings meet standards and regulations and review cost estimates for accuracy.
- Use computer-aided (CAD) drafting equipment and traditional drafting tools.
- Draft working drawings, wiring connection specifications, or cross-sections of underground cables
- Assemble documentation packages and produce drawing sets to be checked by an engineer or architect
- Review drawings and cost estimates for accuracy and conformity to standards and regulations
- Work with engineering staff and other personnel to resolve problems.
Required Job Skills
Electrical drafters require specific skills to do their jobs effectively. They must be able to read and understand complex information, write to communicate ideas, and think critically. They also must be able to analyze the effectiveness of operations as they are conducted.
- Comprehend complex informational text and visuals
- Effective oral and written communication
- Speaking
- Writing
- Critical Thinking
- Operations Analysis
Education & Training Information
Programs and Opportunities
Westmoreland County Community College
Program: Drafting and Design Technology, Mechanical
Certification: Associate's Degree
Length: 2 Years
Community College of Allegheny County - South Campus
Program: Computer-Aided Drafting & Design
Certification: Associate's Degree
Length: 2 Years
Community College of Allegheny County - South Campus
Program: Computer-Aided Drafting Basic
Certification: Certificate
Length: 1 Year
Westmoreland County Community College
Program: Drafting and Design Technology, CADD and CAM
Certification: Associate's Degree
Length: 2 Years