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Mechanical Drafters

Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.

Key skills

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.
Coordinate with and consult other workers to design, lay out, or detail components and systems and to resolve design or other problems.
Confer with customer representatives to review schematics and answer questions pertaining to installation of systems.

Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS, Employment Projections) and O*NET, used under CC BY 4.0.