Mechanical Drafter
Mechanical drafters prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
Average Hourly Earnings
$30.35
Education
Associate Degree
Tasks
- Develop detailed design drawings and specifications for mechanical equipment, dies, tools, and controls, using computer-assisted drafting (CAD) equipment
- Lay out and draw schematic, orthographic, or angle views to show functional relationships of components, assemblies, systems, and machines
- Coordinate with and consult other workers to design, lay out, or detail components and systems and to resolve design or other problems
- Check dimensions of materials to be used and assign numbers to the materials
- Review and analyze specifications, sketches, drawings, ideas, and related data to analyze factors affecting component designs and procedures and instructions to be followed
- Modify and change designs to correct operating deficiencies or to reduce production problems
- Use computer-assisted equipment to compute mathematical formulas used for developing and designing detailed specifications for components or machinery
- Position instructions and comments onto drawings
Work Environment
Mechanical drafters almost always work indoors in comfortable air temperatures. They spend a fair amount of their days sitting. Their workdays sometimes include face-to-face discussions, and they regularly use email and the telephone. Being able to work well in a group or team is very important in this work. On a typical workday, workers often use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls. Accuracy is very important in this work. Many mechanical drafters work full time.
Key Traits
Conventional. Often involves following set procedures and routines. May include working with data and details more than with ideas. Usually have a clear line of authority to follow.