← Back to Careers
Mechanical Drafters
Architecture and Engineering · SOC 17-3013
0.0% AI Exposure — Low
$71,550
Median Annual Salary
Average
O*NET Outlook
5,400
Proj. Annual Openings
39,960
Employment (OEWS 2025)
100/100
AI Resiliency Score
AI exposure from the Anthropic Economic Index (2025); salary from BLS; skills from O*NET. See /sources.
AI Exposure Analysis
AI Exposure0.0%
AI Resiliency100/100
Exposure BandLow
Sector Avg. Exposure3.8%
Top Skills
1.Reading Comprehension
2.Active Listening
3.Mathematics
4.Critical Thinking
5.Active Learning
O*NET occupation profile
What this work involves
Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
Common titles: CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer), CAD Operator (Computer Aided Design Operator), Design Drafter, Drafter, Drafting Technician, Mechanical Designer
Representative Tasks
- •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.
Detailed Work Activities
- •Create graphical representations of mechanical equipment.
- •Create images or other visual displays.
- •Design electromechanical equipment or systems.
- •Analyze design or requirements information for mechanical equipment or systems.
- •Verify mathematical calculations.
Tools & Technologies
Autodesk Revit · hotBentley MicroStation · hotDassault Systemes SolidWorks · hotMicrosoft PowerPoint · hotAdobe After Effects · hotAutodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D · hotSAP software · hotTrimble SketchUp Pro · hotERP softwareMcNeel Rhinoceros 3D
Employment Projections & AI Exposure
15
Occupations Shown
4.5%
Avg AI Exposure
2
Bright Outlook
Sector Comparison
| Metric | This Career | Sector Average |
|---|---|---|
| AI Exposure | 0.0% | 3.8% |
| Outlook | Average | 15% Bright |
| Median Salary | $71,550 | N/A |
| AI Resiliency | 100/100 | N/A |