Architectural and Civil Drafters
What is an Architectural and Civil Drafter?
Architectural and civil drafters are professionals who create detailed drawings and plans used in construction and engineering projects. They work closely with architects and civil engineers to translate concepts and designs into precise technical drawings that guide the construction process. Their work involves the use of computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) representations of buildings, structures, and other physical environments. Architectural drafters focus on building design, including residential, commercial, and industrial projects, while civil drafters emphasize infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and utilities. A keen attention to detail, an understanding of building codes and regulations, and the ability to visualize spatial relationships are essential for success in this career. As technology evolves, drafters increasingly integrate advanced modeling techniques, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), into their workflows to enhance collaboration, improve accuracy, and streamline project delivery.
Tasks
- Produce drawings, using computer-assisted drafting systems (CAD) or drafting machines, or by hand, using compasses, dividers, protractors, triangles, and other drafting devices.
- Draft plans and detailed drawings for structures, installations, and construction projects, such as highways, sewage disposal systems, and dikes, working from sketches or notes.
- Coordinate structural, electrical, and mechanical designs and determine a method of presentation to graphically represent building plans.
- Analyze building codes, by-laws, space and site requirements, and other technical documents and reports to determine their effect on architectural designs.
- Draw maps, diagrams, and profiles, using cross-sections and surveys, to represent elevations, topographical contours, subsurface formations, and structures.
Technology Skills
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Presentation software
- Graphics or photo imaging software
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Map creation software
- OpenRoads Designer
- Boundary survey software
- Geomechanical design analysis GDA software
- Topographic map software
- Geographic information system
Tools Used
- Scanners
- Curves
- Scales
- Tablet computers
- Graphics or video accelerator cards
Knowledge
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Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
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Building and Construction
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Skills
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
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Systems Analysis
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Abilities
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Visualization
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Detailed Work Activities
- Create graphical representations of civil structures.
- Create graphical representations of structures or landscapes.
- Evaluate technical data to determine effect on designs or plans.
- Create maps.
- Supervise engineering or other technical personnel.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Artistic
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$39720.0 - $94580.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.