Salary Estimates:
Average Salary* (Boston) $47,290
Average Salary* (U.S.) $43,310 * According to KUDER.COM
Sample Job Titles: Architectural Technician, CADD Drafter (Computer-Aided Design and Drafting Drafter), Civil Drafting Technician,
Commercial Drafter, Computer-Aided Drafting and Design Operator (CADD Operator),Drafter, Draftsman
Technical and Higher Education Majors:
Architecture and related Services, Engineering Technology, Drafting and Design Technology, Civil Drafting, Civil Engineering, Interior Design.
Certifications: The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) has established a certification program for drafters. Individuals who wish to become certified must pass the Drafter Certification Test, administered periodically at ADDA-authorized sites. Applicants are tested on basic drafting concepts, such as geometric construction, working drawings, and architectural terms and standards.
Career Advancement: Entry-level or junior drafters usually do routine work under close supervision. After gaining experience, they may become intermediate drafters and progress to more difficult work with less supervision. Drafters may eventually advance to senior drafter, designer, or supervisor. With appropriate college degrees, drafters may go on to become engineering technicians, engineers, or architects. Architects must graduate with a degree accredited by the National Architectural Accreditation Board (NAAB), complete the Intern Development Program (IDP), and pass exams given by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).