Architectural and Civil Drafters
O*NET 17-3011.00 · SOC 17-3011
Architectural and Civil Drafter is a solid career choice. Median pay is $66k a year with +5.2% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 9,100 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Draw detailed plans for buildings and infrastructure projects.
- →Convert architect sketches into precise technical drawings.
- →Calculate dimensions and materials needed for construction plans.
- →Revise blueprints based on engineer or architect feedback.
- →Draft site plans showing roads, utilities, and lot boundaries.
Education & How to Get In
Most Architectural and Civil Drafter positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Architectural and Civil Drafter involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Architectural and Civil Drafter?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Architectural and Civil Drafter Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Architectural and Civil Drafters is projected to grow 5.2% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·29% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·30% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Architectural and Civil Drafter make?
The median Architectural and Civil Drafter earns $66k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Architectural and Civil Drafter jobs?
Our model puts Architectural and Civil Drafter at 38 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 29% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; 30% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Architectural and Civil Drafter a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 5.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 9,100 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Architectural and Civil Drafter?
Most Architectural and Civil Drafter roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become an Architectural and Civil Drafter?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Architectural and Civil Drafter career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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