Drafters

Job Zone

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Job Zones group occupations into one of five categories based on the education, experience, and training typically needed to perform them.

Tasks

Specific duties and responsibilities regularly performed in this occupation.

Produce drawings, using computer-assisted drafting systems (CAD) or drafting machines, or by hand, using compasses, dividers, protractors, triangles, and other drafting devices.87
Analyze building codes, by-laws, space and site requirements, and other technical documents and reports to determine their effect on architectural designs.78
Draw rough and detailed scale plans for foundations, buildings, and structures, based on preliminary concepts, sketches, engineering calculations, specification sheets, and other data.78
Coordinate structural, electrical, and mechanical designs and determine a method of presentation to graphically represent building plans.77
Explain drawings to production or construction teams and provide adjustments as necessary.76
Draft plans and detailed drawings for structures, installations, and construction projects, such as highways, sewage disposal systems, and dikes, working from sketches or notes.75
Obtain and assemble data to complete architectural designs, visiting job sites to compile measurements as necessary.73
Lay out and plan interior room arrangements for commercial buildings, using computer-assisted drafting (CAD) equipment and software.70
Represent architect or engineer on construction site, ensuring builder compliance with design specifications and advising on design corrections, under supervision.70
Review rough sketches, drawings, specifications, and other engineering data to ensure that they conform to design concepts.70
Draw maps, diagrams, and profiles, using cross-sections and surveys, to represent elevations, topographical contours, subsurface formations, and structures.67
Prepare cost estimates, contracts, bidding documents, and technical reports for specific projects under an architect's or engineer's supervision.66

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Determine the order of work and method of presentation, such as orthographic or isometric drawing.63
Finish and duplicate drawings and documentation packages according to required mediums and specifications for reproduction, using blueprinting, photography, or other duplicating methods.61
Supervise or conduct field surveys, inspections, or technical investigations to obtain data required to revise construction drawings.59
Determine procedures and instructions to be followed, according to design specifications and quantity of required materials.58
Supervise and train other technologists, technicians, and drafters.57
Determine quality, cost, strength, and quantity of required materials, and enter figures on materials lists.56
Create freehand drawings and lettering to accompany drawings.56
Check dimensions of materials to be used and assign numbers to lists of materials.56
Calculate weights, volumes, and stress factors and their implications for technical aspects of designs.55
Locate and identify symbols on topographical surveys to denote geological and geophysical formations or oil field installations.53
Correlate, interpret, and modify data obtained from topographical surveys, well logs, and geophysical prospecting reports.52
Reproduce drawings on copy machines or trace copies of plans and drawings, using transparent paper or cloth, ink, pencil, and standard drafting instruments.52
Prepare colored drawings of landscape and interior designs for presentation to client.50
Calculate heat loss and gain of buildings and structures to determine required equipment specifications, following standard procedures.43
Use drone technology to capture aerial views and topographical data for civil engineering projects.—

Skills

Developed capacities that facilitate learning or the more rapid acquisition of knowledge.

Reading Comprehension69
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Critical Thinking66
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Active Listening63
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.
Judgment and Decision Making60
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Coordination56
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Monitoring56
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Speaking56
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Writing56
Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Active Learning53
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Complex Problem Solving53
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Mathematics53
Using mathematics to solve problems.
Time Management53
Managing one's own time and the time of others.

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Persuasion50
Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
Social Perceptiveness50
Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Systems Analysis50
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Instructing47
Teaching others how to do something.
Negotiation47
Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
Service Orientation47
Actively looking for ways to help people.
Management of Personnel Resources44
Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job.
Systems Evaluation44
Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Learning Strategies41
Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Management of Financial Resources31
Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for these expenditures.
Management of Material Resources31
Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work.
Operations Analysis28
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
Quality Control Analysis28
Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate quality or performance.
Science28
Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Technology Design25
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
Operations Monitoring22
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Troubleshooting22
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
Programming19
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
Operation and Control3
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
Equipment Maintenance0
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
Equipment Selection0
Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
Installation0
Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
Repairing0
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

Knowledge

Organized sets of principles and facts that apply in general domains.

Design97
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Building and Construction80
Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.
Engineering and Technology79
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.
Computers and Electronics69
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
English Language66
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Mathematics59
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Customer and Personal Service56
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.
Public Safety and Security50
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Administration and Management47
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
Law and Government47
Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulations, executive orders, agency rules, and the democratic political process.
Administrative40
Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and workplace terminology.
Geography39
Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.

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Production and Processing39
Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and other techniques for maximizing the effective manufacture and distribution of goods.
Fine Arts36
Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Sales and Marketing35
Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. This includes marketing strategy and tactics, product demonstration, sales techniques, and sales control systems.
Mechanical34
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
Transportation32
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Physics31
Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Economics and Accounting29
Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking, and the analysis and reporting of financial data.
Telecommunications29
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Education and Training28
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
History and Archeology28
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Communications and Media25
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Personnel and Human Resources24
Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems.
Psychology22
Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders.
Chemistry17
Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Sociology and Anthropology15
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Foreign Language14
Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition and grammar, and pronunciation.
Biology11
Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interdependencies, and interactions with each other and the environment.
Philosophy and Theology7
Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their basic principles, values, ethics, ways of thinking, customs, practices, and their impact on human culture.
Food Production3
Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food products (both plant and animal) for consumption, including storage/handling techniques.
Medicine and Dentistry3
Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human injuries, diseases, and deformities. This includes symptoms, treatment alternatives, drug properties and interactions, and preventive health-care measures.
Therapy and Counseling3
Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of physical and mental dysfunctions, and for career counseling and guidance.

Abilities

Enduring attributes of the individual that influence performance.

Oral Comprehension72
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
Written Comprehension72
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
Near Vision69
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
Oral Expression69
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Information Ordering66
The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations).
Problem Sensitivity66
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
Visualization66
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
Written Expression66
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Deductive Reasoning63
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Inductive Reasoning60
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
Category Flexibility56
The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping things in different ways.
Fluency of Ideas56
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).

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Mathematical Reasoning56
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
Speech Recognition56
The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
Originality53
The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.
Speech Clarity53
The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
Number Facility50
The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
Selective Attention50
The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
Far Vision47
The ability to see details at a distance.
Flexibility of Closure47
The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in other distracting material.
Perceptual Speed44
The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among sets of letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns. The things to be compared may be presented at the same time or one after the other. This ability also includes comparing a presented object with a remembered object.
Visual Color Discrimination44
The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness.
Speed of Closure38
The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into meaningful patterns.
Arm-Hand Steadiness31
The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while holding your arm and hand in one position.
Finger Dexterity31
The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or both hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble very small objects.
Manual Dexterity31
The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your two hands to grasp, manipulate, or assemble objects.
Memorization31
The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and procedures.
Time Sharing31
The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of information (such as speech, sounds, touch, or other sources).
Control Precision28
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Auditory Attention22
The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distracting sounds.
Depth Perception22
The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you, or to judge the distance between you and an object.
Trunk Strength22
The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without "giving out" or fatiguing.
Wrist-Finger Speed22
The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and wrists.
Hearing Sensitivity19
The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch and loudness.
Multilimb Coordination13
The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while sitting, standing, or lying down. It does not involve performing the activities while the whole body is in motion.
Dynamic Strength6
The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue.
Spatial Orientation6
The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know where other objects are in relation to you.
Rate Control3
The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in anticipation of changes in the speed and/or direction of a moving object or scene.
Reaction Time3
The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sound, light, picture) when it appears.
Response Orientation3
The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two or more different signals (lights, sounds, pictures). It includes the speed with which the correct response is started with the hand, foot, or other body part.
Speed of Limb Movement3
The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
Stamina3
The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath.
Dynamic Flexibility0
The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Explosive Strength0
The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping or sprinting), or to throw an object.
Extent Flexibility0
The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
Glare Sensitivity0
The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
Gross Body Coordination0
The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion.
Gross Body Equilibrium0
The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
Night Vision0
The ability to see under low-light conditions.
Peripheral Vision0
The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes are looking ahead.
Sound Localization0
The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.
Static Strength0
The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.

Work Activities

General types of job behaviors occurring on multiple jobs.

Working with Computers90
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment86
Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
Communicating with People Outside the Organization83
Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Getting Information83
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems82
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates81
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events77
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Thinking Creatively76
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others74
Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work74
Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Processing Information74
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards73
Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

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Documenting/Recording Information71
Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge71
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships70
Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Analyzing Data or Information69
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings69
Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others68
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information66
Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People62
Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Training and Teaching Others61
Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Developing Objectives and Strategies59
Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Developing and Building Teams58
Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Providing Consultation and Advice to Others58
Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates57
Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Scheduling Work and Activities53
Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Performing Administrative Activities52
Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files and processing paperwork.
Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others51
Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, or otherwise negotiating with others.
Coaching and Developing Others50
Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials50
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Performing for or Working Directly with the Public42
Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Assisting and Caring for Others41
Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients.
Monitoring and Controlling Resources38
Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
Staffing Organizational Units38
Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organization.
Selling or Influencing Others37
Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions.
Performing General Physical Activities33
Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Controlling Machines and Processes25
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment25
Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Handling and Moving Objects19
Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment18
Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, such as forklifts, passenger vehicles, aircraft, or watercraft.
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment10
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.

Work Styles

Personal characteristics that can affect how well someone performs a job.

Attention to Detail92
A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
Dependability75
A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related obligations.
Cautiousness66
A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related decisions or doing work.
Achievement Orientation53
A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, set high work-related standards, and exert high effort toward meeting those goals and standards.
Integrity45
A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
Intellectual Curiosity41
A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep understanding of work-related subjects.
Perseverance39
A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in the face of difficult circumstances or obstacles at work.
Innovation37
A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on ways to accomplish work.
Adaptability34
A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas at work.
Self-Confidence34
A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control one's work-related outcomes.
Stress Tolerance29
A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
Cooperation24
A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.

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Initiative21
A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may fall outside of one's required work role.
Self-Control20
A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in response to criticism or difficult situations at work.
Leadership Orientation8
A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
Tolerance for Ambiguity7
A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
Sincerity6
A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, without concern for personal gain or self-interest.
Optimism2
A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even under difficult circumstances.
Social Orientation2
A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
Humility1
A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.

Interests (RIASEC)

Holland's six occupational interest types (RIASEC) this work tends to attract.

Realistic76
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Conventional65
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
Artistic58
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Investigative54
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
Enterprising9
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Social9
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.

Work Context

Physical and social factors that influence the nature of work.

Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
- Every day99%
E-Mail
- Every day85%
Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team
- Extremely important65%
- Very important23%
- Important13%
Spend Time Sitting
- More than half the time37%
Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
Telephone Conversations
- Every day58%
- Once a week or more but not every day31%
- Never11%
Importance of Being Exact or Accurate
- Extremely important32%
- Very important62%
Freedom to Make Decisions
- A lot of freedom29%
- Some freedom38%
- Limited freedom18%
- Very little freedom15%
Impact of Decisions on Co-workers or Company Results
- Very important results34%
- Important results34%
- Moderate results11%
- Minor results11%
Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
- A lot of freedom24%
- Some freedom45%
- Limited freedom11%
- Very little freedom18%
Frequency of Decision Making
- Every day41%
- Once a month or more but not every week25%
- Once a year or more but not every month17%
Contact With Others
- Contact with others most of the time50%
- Contact with others about half the time20%
- Occasional contact with others20%

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Duration of Typical Work Week
- More than 40 hours26%
- 40 hours73%
Importance of Repeating Same Tasks
- Extremely important38%
- Very important12%
- Important27%
- Fairly important11%
- Not important at all13%
Spend Time Using Your Hands to Handle, Control, or Feel Objects, Tools, or Controls
- Continually or almost continually59%
- Never29%
Time Pressure
- Every day14%
- Once a week or more but not every day27%
- Once a month or more but not every week49%
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
Spend Time Making Repetitive Motions
- Continually or almost continually36%
- More than half the time11%
- About half the time27%
- Never17%
Coordinate or Lead Others in Accomplishing Work Activities
- Very important14%
- Important43%
- Fairly important21%
Deal With External Customers or the Public in General
- Extremely important16%
- Very important34%
- Fairly important39%
Work Outcomes and Results of Other Workers
- Very high responsibility21%
- High responsibility16%
- Moderate responsibility16%
- Limited responsibility35%
- No responsibility12%
Level of Competition
- Highly competitive14%
- Moderately competitive39%
- Slightly competitive26%
- Not at all competitive12%
Written Letters and Memos
- Every day17%
- Once a week or more but not every day16%
- Once a month or more but not every week17%
- Once a year or more but not every month29%
- Never21%
Consequence of Error
- Very serious27%
- Serious34%
- Fairly serious24%
- Not serious at all16%
Exposed to Sounds, Noise Levels that are Distracting or Uncomfortable
- Once a week or more but not every day21%
- Once a month or more but not every week23%
- Once a year or more but not every month28%
- Never21%
Physical Proximity
- Moderately close (at arm's length)14%
- I work with others but not closely (e.g., private office)38%
Conflict Situations
- Once a week or more but not every day33%
- Once a year or more but not every month32%
- Never25%
Dealing With Unpleasant, Angry, or Discourteous People
- Once a month or more but not every week27%
- Once a year or more but not every month57%
- Never14%
Wear Common Protective or Safety Equipment such as Safety Shoes, Glasses, Gloves, Hearing Protection, Hard Hats, or Life Jackets
- Once a month or more but not every week13%
- Once a year or more but not every month49%
- Never29%
Indoors, Not Environmentally Controlled
- Once a month or more but not every week11%
- Once a year or more but not every month50%
- Never30%
Health and Safety of Other Workers
- Moderate responsibility11%
- Limited responsibility47%
- No responsibility33%
Outdoors, Exposed to All Weather Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month50%
- Never32%
Spend Time Standing
- Less than half the time87%
In an Enclosed Vehicle or Operate Enclosed Equipment
- Once a week or more but not every day11%
- Once a year or more but not every month48%
- Never36%
Public Speaking
- Once a month or more but not every week19%
- Once a year or more but not every month39%
- Never42%
Degree of Automation
- Moderately automated21%
- Slightly automated21%
- Not at all automated58%
Exposed to High Places
- Once a year or more but not every month37%
- Never54%
Outdoors, Under Cover
- Once a year or more but not every month22%
- Never68%
Spend Time Walking or Running
- Less than half the time51%
- Never49%
Exposed to Contaminants
- Once a year or more but not every month16%
- Never73%
Exposed to Very Hot or Cold Temperatures
Spend Time Kneeling, Crouching, Stooping, or Crawling
- Less than half the time28%
- Never72%
Exposed to Extremely Bright or Inadequate Lighting Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month25%
- Never75%
Spend Time Climbing Ladders, Scaffolds, or Poles
- Less than half the time24%
- Never76%
Exposed to Hazardous Conditions
- Once a year or more but not every month21%
- Never79%
Exposed to Hazardous Equipment
- Once a year or more but not every month20%
- Never80%
Pace Determined by Speed of Equipment
- Not important at all92%
Spend Time Bending or Twisting Your Body
- Less than half the time14%
- Never86%
Exposed to Cramped Work Space, Awkward Positions
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never89%
Exposed to Minor Burns, Cuts, Bites, or Stings
- Once a year or more but not every month11%
- Never89%
Work Schedules
- Regular (established routine, set schedule)94%
Dealing with Violent or Physically Aggressive People
- Never93%
Exposed to Disease or Infections
- Never92%
Spend Time Keeping or Regaining Balance
- Never94%
Exposed to Radiation
- Never100%
Exposed to Whole Body Vibration
- Never100%
In an Open Vehicle or Operating Equipment
- Never100%
Wear Specialized Protective or Safety Equipment such as Breathing Apparatus, Safety Harness, Full Protection Suits, or Radiation Protection
- Never100%

Typical Education Levels Reported

Education levels O*NET survey respondents in this occupation most often reported having.

Bachelor’s degree

Technology Skills

Specific software and technology tools commonly used on the job.

Computer aided design CAD software
Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D, Autodesk Revit, Bentley MicroStation, Trimble SketchUp Pro
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Graphics or photo imaging software
Adobe After Effects, Adobe Creative Cloud software, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop
Map creation software
Bentley Systems InRoads Suite, Boundary survey software, Geomechanical design analysis GDA software, Topographic map software
Geographic information system
ESRI ArcGIS software, ESRI ArcView, Geographic information system GIS systems
Data base user interface and query software
ARCOM Masterspec, Database software, Microsoft Access
Optical character reader OCR or scanning software
Digitizing and photogrammetric software, Scanning software
Document management software
Adobe Acrobat, Document management system software
Development environment software
C, Microsoft .NET Framework
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
ERP software, SAP software
Video creation and editing software
Animation software, Autodesk 3ds Max
Word processing software
Microsoft Word, Specification software
Project management software
Microsoft Project, SpecsInTact
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Pattern design software
100 Plus Hatch Pattern Library
Electronic mail software
Microsoft Outlook
Desktop publishing software
Adobe InDesign
Enterprise application integration software
Extensible markup language XML
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
Operating system software
Microsoft Windows
Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
Bill of materials software
Process mapping and design software
Microsoft Visio

Professional Associations

Organizations related to this occupation, such as industry and licensing bodies.

Related Occupations

Occupations that call for similar work and worker requirements.

Detailed Work Activities

More specific, granular versions of the Work Activities above.

Create graphical representations of civil structures.
Create graphical representations of structures or landscapes.
Evaluate technical data to determine effect on designs or plans.
Explain engineering drawings, specifications, or other technical information.
Collect data about project sites.
Evaluate designs or specifications to ensure quality.
Monitor processes for compliance with standards.
Provide technical guidance to other personnel.
Recommend technical design or process changes to improve efficiency, quality, or performance.
Review details of technical drawings or specifications.
Create maps.
Estimate operational costs.

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Prepare contracts, disclosures, or applications.
Prepare technical reports for internal use.
Prepare detailed work plans.
Survey land or bodies of water to measure or determine features.
Determine operational methods.
Supervise engineering or other technical personnel.
Estimate technical or resource requirements for development or production projects.
Prepare procedural documents.
Verify mathematical calculations.
Review technical documents to plan work.
Analyze operational data to evaluate operations, processes or products.

Apprenticeship Occupations

Registered apprenticeship program titles associated with this occupation.

Drafter, Architectural
Drafter, Civil
Drafter, Commercial
Drafter, Heating & Ventilate
Drafter, Landscape
Drafter, Marine
Drafter, Plumbing
Drafter, Structural

This page incorporates information from O*NET Web Services by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).

Based on federal labor and demographic data. Data source & methodology