A drafting technician plays a crucial role in the production of technical drawings, plans, and schematics that support various industries, including architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. This position is essential for translating ideas and concepts into detailed visual representations, which serve as guides for construction, production, or assembly.
Drafting technicians collaborate closely with engineers, architects, and other team members to ensure that designs meet specifications and are feasible for implementation. In this job description template, we outline the responsibilities, necessary qualifications, and key skills that an effective drafting technician should possess to thrive in this challenging and rewarding role.
Drafting technicians are responsible for preparing detailed drawings and plans that conform to industry standards and specifications.
- •Creating and modifying technical drawings and schematics using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software.
- •Working with engineers and architects to understand project requirements and objectives.
- •Verifying calculations and dimensions to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- •Maintaining organized records of all drafting projects and revisions.
- •Performing quality checks on drawings to identify and correct any errors.
- •Collaborating with construction teams to address potential design issues during implementation.
To excel as a drafting technician, candidates should possess educational qualifications and skills that demonstrate their ability to perform the role effectively.
- •An associate degree or diploma in drafting, architecture, or a related field.
- •Proficiency in CAD software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit.
- •A strong understanding of technical drawing standards and conventions.
- •Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
- •Good communication and teamwork abilities, as collaboration is essential.
- •Experience in a specific industry, such as construction or manufacturing, is a plus.
In addition to qualifications, several key skills are vital for success as a drafting technician.
- •Analytical skills for interpreting technical data and designs.
- •Creativity to propose effective design solutions.
- •Time management skills to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- •Proficiency in mathematics to perform calculations accurately.
- •Familiarity with building codes and safety regulations relevant to the industry.
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Key Responsibilities
### Key Responsibilities (ranked by frequency and impact)
1.
- •Create 15–30 production or shop drawings per week using AutoCAD/SolidWorks to meet project schedules.
- •Ensure dimensioning, tolerances, and material notes match engineering intents so parts fit at assembly.
- •Why it matters: accurate drawings reduce rework and save field time and costs.
2.
- •Convert engineer sketches, 3D models, and load calculations into detailed 2D/3D drawings and section views.
- •Include welding symbols, surface finishes, and sequence notes to guide fabricators.
3.
- •Update BOMs with part numbers, quantities, weights, and supplier codes; reconcile discrepancies within 48 hours.
- •Why: correct BOMs speed procurement and prevent delayed shipments.
4.
- •Check drawings against ASME Y14.5 or company standards and run clash detection on 3D assemblies.
- •Document and correct dimension errors, annotate change logs, and reduce drawing revision rate by target 20%.
5.
- •Attend design reviews and weekly coordination meetings; respond to RFIs within 72 hours.
- •Share markups and revised files via PDM/PLM systems to keep manufacturing aligned.
6.
- •Update title blocks, templates, and standard detail libraries; archive obsolete files to keep file size under 200 GB.
- •Mentor junior drafters on company standards and best practices.
7.
- •Perform site visits to measure, verify, and issue as-built revisions; reduce field rework by addressing on-site discrepancies.
Actionable takeaway: Prioritize daily CAD production and QA, maintain up-to-date BOMs, and ensure prompt cross-team communication to keep projects on schedule and within budget.
Required Qualifications
### Technical skills
- •AutoCAD and/or SolidWorks (must): 3+ years producing 2D/3D drawings; used to create manufacturing-ready drawings and export DXF/DWG files for CNC. Prove ability to produce accurate prints with <2% dimensional errors.
- •CAD data management (must): Experience with PDM/PLM systems (e.g., Vault, Teamcenter) to control revisions and release files.
- •GD&T and drafting standards (must): Practical knowledge of ASME Y14.5 to specify tolerances and ensure interchangeability.
- •Basic BOM and ERP skills (nice-to-have): Able to update BOMs and enter data into systems like SAP or NetSuite.
### Soft skills
- •Attention to detail (must): Catch dimension or note errors during QA; reduces shop rework by measurable amounts.
- •Communication (must): Write clear revision notes and respond to RFIs within 72 hours; present drawings in coordination meetings.
- •Time management (must): Deliver 15–30 drawings weekly and meet sprint deadlines.
- •Problem-solving (nice-to-have): Propose practical fabrication-friendly changes that lower cost or lead time.
### Education / Certifications
- •Associate degree or certificate in drafting, CAD, or technical design (must): Demonstrates foundation in drawing principles.
- •Autodesk Certified Professional or SolidWorks Certification (nice-to-have): Confirms software proficiency.
- •ASME Y14.5 training (nice-to-have): Formal proof of GD&T competence.
### Experience Requirements
- •Minimum 3 years in a drafting role (must): Prefer experience in manufacturing, architecture, or MEP projects.
- •Experience with shop floor workflows (nice-to-have): Familiarity with welding, fabrication, or CNC process improves drawing practicality.
Actionable takeaway: Hire candidates with 3+ years of hands-on CAD experience, proven GD&T knowledge, and strong communication skills; certifications strengthen but do not replace practical experience.