Electronics Drafter
An electronics drafter is responsible for creating 3D models of electronic products in modeling software. They create these models from scratch and also update existing models. A few of the main duties of an electronics drafter are creating models in CAD, help design new products, create standard models, and edit any changes based on customer preference. They also have to specify correct dimensions and material.
Electronics drafters produce wiring diagrams, assembly diagrams for circuit boards, and layout drawings used in manufacturing and in installing and repairing electronic devices and components.
One of the most important skills that an electronics drafter will have is their ability to correctly create the model needed. Another skill is attention to detail as the drafter will need to make sure that the models are made correctly.
Job Overview
Salary
Workplace
How to Start
Job Overview
What does an Electronics Drafter do?
Electronics drafters use software to create schematics and to convert the designs of engineers and architects into technical drawings and plans.
Many drafters are referred to as CADD (computer-aided design and drafting) operators. With CADD systems, drafters create and store drawings electronically so that they can be viewed, printed, or programmed directly into automated manufacturing systems.
Drawings can be programmed directly into (BIM) Building Information Modeling systems and (PDM) Product Data Management systems. These drawings can be used to build everything from microchips, toys, skyscrapers, and spacecraft.
Through three-dimensional rendering, BIM software allows designers and engineers to see how elements in their projects work together. PDM software helps users track and control data, such as technical specifications related to projects. Just as BIM is changing the work of architectural drafters as well as engineers and designers, PDM is changing the work of mechanical drafters. These software systems allow drafting and design work to be done at the same time as the work done by other professionals involved in the project.
CAD Design Knowledge
Electronics drafters design and prepare plans for using computer-aided design and drafting software. They produce effective product designs by using their understanding of engineering and manufacturing techniques.
Communication Skills
These workers find out customer requirements by speaking to them. They also make revisions on a model based on customer requirements. Coordinate with other teams to ensure the model is correct.
Detail Oriented
These workers add structural details to architectural plans from their knowledge of building techniques. They also prepare multiple versions of designs for review by engineers and architects.
Model Creation
Electronics drafters create the correct model in CAD. They also specify material used on model. They must compute mathematical formulas to find correct dimensions. Electronics drafters create models out of rough sketches.
Salary
How much does an Electronics Drafter make?
The average annual salary for an Electrical Drafter in the United States is $66,608. Salary.com reports that pay typically ranges from $58,936 to $73,860, with most professionals earning between $51,951 and $80,463.
These are 2025 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.
Workplace
What does the workplace for an Electronics Drafter look like?
Electronics drafters can work in a variety of areas, such as electrical engineering and drafting service firms, medical industries, automotive and manufacturing industries, aviation, and even multimedia design.
Typically, electrical and electronics drafters work in office environments. Because they log many hours in front of the computer, back discomfort, hand and wrist problems and eyestrain are all common. A 40-hour workweek is standard. Although electronics drafters spend much of their time working on computers in an office, some may visit jobsites in order to collaborate with architects and engineers.
Electrical and electronic drafters almost always work indoors in comfortable air temperatures. Workers in this occupation spend most of their days sitting. They have contact with others by email, in face-to-face discussions, and by telephone. Being able to work well in a group or team is very important in this work.
How to Start
How to become an Electronics Drafter?
Common Degrees: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Interior Design, Computer-Aided Drafting and Design, Civil Engineering, CAD and Architectural Drawing, Drafting Technology.
Typical Qualifications:
- Associate degree in drafting from technical school
- Ability to stay organized and multitask
- Solid mathematical skills
- Knowledge of necessary regulations
- Great time management skills
- Ability to work on your own
