Prepare detailed drawings of architectural designs and plans for buildings and structures according to specifications provided by architect.

Artistic - Artistic occupations frequently involve working with forms, designs and patterns. They often require self-expression and the work can be done without following a clear set of rules.

1. Analyze building codes, by-laws, space and site requirements, and other technical documents and reports to determine their effect on architectural designs.

2. Operate computer-aided drafting (CAD) equipment or conventional drafting station to produce designs, working drawings, charts, forms and records.

3. Coordinate structural, electrical and mechanical designs and determine a method of presentation to graphically represent building plans.

4. Obtain and assemble data to complete architectural designs, visiting job sites to compile measurements as necessary.

5. Draw rough and detailed scale plans for foundations, buildings and structures, based on preliminary concepts, sketches, engineering calculations, specification sheets and other data.

6. Lay out and plan interior room arrangements for commercial buildings using computer-assisted drafting (CAD) equipment and software.

7. Supervise, coordinate, and inspect the work of draftspersons, technicians, and technologists on construction projects.

8. Represent architect on construction site, ensuring builder compliance with design specifications and advising on design corrections, under architect's supervision.

9. Check dimensions of materials to be used and assign numbers to lists of materials.

10. Determine procedures and instructions to be followed, according to design specifications and quantity of required materials.

11. Analyze technical implications of architect's design concept, calculating weights, volumes, and stress factors.

Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Coordination - Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.

Active Learning - Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.

Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Design - Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Building and Construction - Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.

The college search results are undergraduate programs associated with Architectural Drafters. Further education may also be required to pursue this career.

The training search results include both short and long-term programs associated with Architectural Drafters, and may be more appropriate for adult and non-traditional students. Further training may also be required to pursue this career.

In NY the average wage for this occupation was:

$36,850 for entry level workers, and $59,460 for experienced workers.

Based on the total number of annual openings and its growth rate, the employment prospects for this occupation are described as Less Favorable.

During 2006, there were approximately 5,900 Architectural Drafters employed in NY.

We estimate that in 2016 there will be 6,040  employed in NY. This represents an increase of 10 job(s) each year, and a total of 170 job openings each year.

Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) Center - The Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) Center provides you with information on educational and professional development opportunities including technology-rich curriculum materials that includes a listing of materials and summer institutes have you working with employers and working technicians to give you a better understanding of the type of work.

Summer at RPI: Architecture Career Discovery Program - Architecture Career Discovery Program has two separate and unique two-week day programs for high school students considering studies in architecture or design with a curiosity about the world in which we live, as well as an interest in art culture and new ideas.

Drafters - Visit this link for additional information on this career from the Occupational Outlook Handbook; a publication produced and maintained by the United States Department of Labor.

Architecture Career Discovery Program - This four week course acts as an opportunity for career discovery enabling high school students (rising juniors and seniors) to decide whether a design education in architecture is appropriate.

American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) - The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) is a professional membership and educational society dedicated to serving the professional growth and advancement of the individual working in the design drafting community. ADDA is the only membership organization dedicated exclusively to the professional designer/drafter in all disciplines.

Mechanical Engineers - Perform engineering duties in planning and designing tools, engines, machines, and other mechanically functioning equipment. Oversee installation, operation, maintenance, and repair of such equipment as centralized heat, gas, water, and steam systems.

Civil Drafters - Prepare drawings and topographical and relief maps used in civil engineering projects, such as highways, bridges, pipelines, flood control projects, and water and sewerage control systems.

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

Civil Engineering Technicians - Apply theory and principles of civil engineering in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of structures and facilities under the direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.

Electrical Engineering Technicians - Apply electrical theory and related knowledge to test and modify developmental or operational electrical machinery and electrical control equipment and circuitry in industrial or commercial plants and laboratories. Usually work under direction of engineering staff.

Commercial and Industrial Designers - Develop and design manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and children's toys. Combine artistic talent with research on product use, marketing, and materials to create the most functional and appealing product design.

Fashion Designers - Design clothing and accessories. Create original garments or design garments that follow well established fashion trends. May develop the line of color and kinds of materials.

Set and Exhibit Designers - Design special exhibits and movie, television, and theater sets. May study scripts, confer with directors, and conduct research to determine appropriate architectural styles.

Fabric and Apparel Patternmakers - Draw and construct sets of precision master fabric patterns or layouts. May also mark and cut fabrics and apparel.

Inspectors, Testers, Sorters, Samplers, and Weighers - Inspect, test, sort, sample, or weigh nonagricultural raw materials or processed, machined, fabricated, or assembled parts or products for defects, wear, and deviations from specifications. May use precision measuring instruments and complex test equipment.