Description

A draftsperson primarily works in the field of building design and architecture. (In many job listings, the term is used interchangeably with architect.) The work revolves around the conception, drawing, design, and schematics for residential and commercial buildings.To perform their job well, a draftsperson must also be willing to work with other aspects of a construction project. They must have a clear understanding of the needs and function of the building or residence being designed and must be ready to adhere to all deadlines imposed by the project leader. The draftsperson also executes drawings and schematics that conform to all local building codes and requirements. This requires a familiarity with and continuing education on relevant regulatory issues.Draftspersons are normally employed by architectural firms that do design and drawings for multiple clients in the company’s area of specialty - commercial, residential, or industrial structures. There are large commercial organizations that regularly build new facilities (such as large retail or restaurant corporations) that also have their own architectural teams and hire draftspersons to work in those departments. The position normally requires working regular business hours in an office environment. However, in the case of any job with firm deadlines, there are frequent occasions when the draftsperson will be required to work longer hours.The education requirement for this position is normally a bachelor’s degree in architecture or a related discipline. As most design and drawing now happens with CAD-based software, a draftsperson needs a strong background on these graphics applications.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Draftsperson with 3-6 years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

  • Collaborating with architects and engineers to develop detailed drawings and plans for construction projects, ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.
  • Utilizing computer-aided design CAD software to create accurate and precise technical drawings, including floor plans, elevations, and sections.
  • Reviewing and revising drawings based on feedback from clients, contractors, and other stakeholders, ensuring accuracy and clarity of information.
  • Conducting site visits and inspections to gather data and measurements, and incorporating them into the design process to produce high-quality drawings that meet project requirements.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Draftsperson, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proficiency in drafting software such as AutoCAD or Revit to create accurate and detailed technical drawings.
  • Strong knowledge of architectural and engineering principles to interpret and translate design concepts into precise drawings.
  • Excellent attention to detail to ensure adherence to project specifications and standards.
  • Effective communication skills to collaborate with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to clarify requirements and address design-related issues.

Essential Skills For Draftsperson

1

CAD

2

Solidworks

3

Cad (Computer-aided Design)

4

AutoCAD

Skills That Affect Draftsperson Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

CAD

5%

Solidworks

6%

Cad (Computer-aided Design)

9%

AutoCAD

1%

Career Prospects

The Draftsperson job role is crucial in the Australian context, requiring 3-6 years of work experience. If you're looking for alternative roles within a similar domain, here are four options to consider:

  • CAD Designer: A position that specializes in computer-aided design, creating detailed technical drawings and plans for construction projects.
  • BIM Coordinator: A role focused on Building Information Modeling, involving the coordination and management of digital design data for construction projects.
  • Architectural Technician: A position that supports architects in the design and construction process, including preparing drawings, models, and documentation.
  • Construction Supervisor: A role involving overseeing and coordinating construction activities, ensuring compliance with plans, schedules, and quality standards.

How to Learn

According to the latest data from Google, the job role of a Draftsperson in Australia is projected to grow steadily in the market. Over the past 10 years, there has been a consistent demand for these professionals, indicating a positive trend. The outlook for the future suggests that there will continue to be a significant number of employment opportunities available in this field. With ongoing infrastructure projects and construction activities, the need for skilled Draftspersons is expected to remain strong, ensuring job stability and potential growth in this role.