Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Mechanical Drafter
What mechanical drafters actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a mechanical drafter?
Review a design request. From there, the day usually includes create 3D models, make part drawings, and add dimensions and tolerances. Full-time business hours.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a mechanical drafter working full time.
- Review a design request.
- Model a bracket.
- Create a drawing with GD&T.
- Build an assembly.
- Create a BOM.
- Check a drawing.
- Release to manufacturing.
Where mechanical drafters work
Drafters work in engineering offices, sometimes on shop floors.
Hours and schedule
Full-time business hours.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Create 3D models
- Make part drawings
- Add dimensions and tolerances
- Draw assemblies
- Draw HVAC layouts
- Update designs
- Create bills of materials
Tools you’ll use every day
- SolidWorks
- Inventor
- AutoCAD
- PDM systems
- Calipers
- 3D printers
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Two-year path
- 3D modeling skills
- Office work
- Remote options
What’s hard
- Declining employment
- Desk-heavy
- Revision churn
- Deadline pressure
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like 3D modeling
- I’m detail-oriented
- I like machines
- I want a two-year path
- I like quiet work
- I might become a designer
Not sure? Take the free Mechanical Drafter fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Wear PPE on shop visits
- Use ergonomic setups
- Protect design data
- Take screen breaks