Metal Building Drafting Jobs
Drafters provide detailed technical drawings used to fabricate products and structures. These drawings include dimensions, procedures, materials and technical details. Drafters work with surveyors, engineers and architects. These professionals may use Computer Aided Design and Drafting technology to create and store electronic drawings. These CADD drawings are downloaded into manufacturing systems and are available for printing, review or revision.
Architectural drafters prepare the structural components for new residential or commercial construction. These workers may specialize in a material such as masonry, reinforced concrete or steel.
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Employment Prospects
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According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, as of 2008, 52 percent of all drafting jobs were held by drafters in architectural, engineering or similar firms doing business in construction projects or on a contract basis. An additional 24 percent of jobs were in machinery, fabricated metal, transportation equipment and computer projects.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, drafters with at least two years of post-secondary training enjoy the best job prospects. Overall, drafting jobs are anticipated to expand slower than average. However, architectural and civil drafting positions are predicted to grow by 9 percent from 2008 until 2018.
Steel Detailer
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A structural steel drafter may work with concrete reinforcing steel. You will need skills in developing and fine-tuning design sketches, writing technical reports and ensuring drawings specifications are error-free. Employers seek applicants who display teamwork, problem solving and decision-making skills. Research, planning and organizational skills are essential.
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Sheet Metal Drafter/Designer
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A sheet metal drafter or designer works with sheet metal fabrication, modeling and drafting sheet metal, weldments and machine parts. This job may require familiarity with machining, welding and fabrication procedures along with an understanding of engineering and design. You should be able to develop and evaluate rough sketches, specifications and drawings. Good communication and problem-solving skills are helpful in this position.
Drafting Project Manager
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A drafting project manager oversees sheet metal layouts, assembly and installation. This professional may manage a crew of drafters and work with 3-D and technical drawings and provide detailed verbal and written instructions on final product assembly. Job candidates should have a bachelor's degree along with five year's experience with sheet metal manufacturing. Specific industry software experience with programs such as Inventor and Revit is beneficial.
Additional Information
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If your seeking a job in drafting, you will need skills in math, science and drawing. You should obtain post-high school education and training. Trade schools, community colleges and universities offer two-year or four-year programs.
The American Design Drafting Association offers a drafter's certification program. Applicants must pass a Drafter's Certification Test covering drafting concepts, architectural standards and construction concepts. Drafter salaries vary by region, experience and position. The median annual salary for architectural and civil drafters was $44,390 as of May 2008. The highest 10 percent of drafters earned over $67,110.
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References
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