Mechanical Drafters
Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed
Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
Median pay: $71,550/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -6.5% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 3,300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Develop detailed design drawings and specifications for mechanical equipment, dies, tools, and controls, using computer-assisted drafting (CAD) equipment.
• Produce three-dimensional models, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
• Lay out and draw schematic, orthographic, or angle views to depict functional relationships of components, assemblies, systems, and machines.
• Modify and revise designs to correct operating deficiencies or to reduce production problems.
• Review and analyze specifications, sketches, drawings, ideas, and related data to assess factors affecting component designs and the procedures and instructions to be followed.
• Check dimensions of materials to be used and assign numbers to the materials.
• Design scale or full-size blueprints of specialty items, such as furniture and automobile body or chassis components.
• Compute mathematical formulas to develop and design detailed specifications for components or machinery, using computer-assisted equipment.
What's the median pay for Mechanical Drafters?
The median pay for Mechanical Drafters is $71,550 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Mechanical Drafters?
Employment for Mechanical Drafters is projected to change -6.5% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Mechanical Drafters?
Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Mechanical Drafters?
About 3,300 openings per year, on average, over the decade.