What Does a Draftsman Do?
While looking at the constructions of buildings, bridges or machinery it is so easy to sing praise to the engineers and architects without noticing the work of a draftsman. A draftsman comes to life during the detailed plan or blueprints.
If you are a business owner or an employee exploring new career paths, figuring out the role of a draftsman will assist you in understanding modern day projects.
In this post, you will learn about draftsman’s key responsibilities and primary skills including their multifaceted role and what domains they integrate into.
Later, you will understand what is a good and efficient draftsman, and why their skills and competencies matter.
Also read: AutoCAD Draughtsman Salary in Nigeria: A Detailed Analysis
What is a Draftsman?
Draftsman is also known as drafter and it refers to a professional who is responsible to capture the vision in a drawing form which consists of technical drawings and plans.
They can be used in architecture, engineering, manufacturing or construction. The technical drawings serve as an essential blueprint to guide and guarantee that the project moves from mere concept stage to execution.
Draftsmen operate between the designer or engineer’s imagination and the final physical tangible existence. His or her job function involved capturing the imagination, concepts, and the calculations into practical drawings of the hope that guarantee dependability and functionality in real word implementation.
A Quick History of Drafting
It came to the notice that the ancient Egyptians conceptualized the first forms of issuing pyramids when designs for the pyramids were crafted using papyrus paper.
Fast-forward to the Industrial Revolution, and drafting became a critical element in machinery and industrial development.
Today, drafters use advanced software instead of drawing by hand, combining traditional skills with modern technology.
Draftsman Job Responsibilities
Although draftsmen work in various fields, their general responsibilities remain the same:
1. Creating Technical Drawings
As the name suggests, the primary responsibility of a draftsman is to prepare a multidisciplinary technical drawing to scale capable of yielding successful results for the engineers, architects, or the manufacturer. The drawings must include dimensions, calculations, material used in constructions, and several other specifications.
2. Participation in Design Teams
A draftsman may not work solely but together with an architect, engineers, and others a stakeholder of the project so that the designs are not only accurate but also fulfill the objectives of the project. Rough sketches done by the whiteboard often need to be modeled into precise computer models.
3. Assessment of Design Compliance
Draftsmen ensure that all designs are executed in accordance with the standards set out in the general industry and the local areas as well as the safety measures taken to ensure the health and well being of individuals. Whether it’s a construction blueprint or a mechanical schematic, compliance is imperative.
4. Employing CAD Software
A computer aided design or CAD as it is commonly known represents the most basic requisite of a modern draftsman. It provides the user with a tool to manufacture in detail two and three-dimensional computerized models. Mastery of sophisticated software useful in the field such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is an ideal necessity of any in the field.
5. Recording Adjustments
Varied designs and details continue to evolve as one progresses in the project. It is a draftsman’s duty to update drawings in accordance with the drafted engineering change implementing the proper rigor to ensure accuracy, clarity, and verifiability.
Skills Required to Be a Draftsman
A successful draftsman career goes beyond just portraying images. This job requires some degree of inventiveness, an engineering background, and high precision.
1. Knowledge of the Field
A draftsman should have good knowledge of shapes, engineering, and the materials involved in such a task. While specialist engineering duties are not performed by them, their understanding of the work is needed to make effective designs.
2. Knowledge of Computer Programs
Drafting these days is mostly done on computers. Proficiency in programs such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, SolidWorks, or Revit is necessary. Many employers might also want someone with experience in Building Information Modeling (BIM).
3. Excellent Listening Skills
When dealing with architects and engineers, as well as project managers, good listening skills is a must. A draftsman should be able to give as much direction as they can receive and discern when they need more information in order to create an accurate technical drawing.
4. Critical Thinking
In most cases, designers face problems while working on a project. A draftsman must be able to identify where a design is lacking or where an inconsistency occurs and suggest a feasible means of dealing with it.
5. Focused on the Task
A technical drawing is just that; it should be executed accurately, as a building or article of manufacture may be substantially affected for the worse. A skilled draftsman is very accurate and scrupulous.
Industries Hiring Draftsman
Draftsmen find applications in a variety of industries, each requiring specialized knowledge and skills.
1. Architecture
Architectural draftsmen prepare blueprints and plans for buildings and structures, incorporating both aesthetics and functionality. They work closely with architects to ensure that designs are feasible and follow building codes.
2. Engineering
Draftsmen in engineering fields focus on mechanical systems, civil structures, and other engineering projects. They create schematics and layouts that guide the assembly or maintenance of equipment.
3. Manufacturing
Manufacturing draftsmen create plans for machinery, tools, and equipment. They help ensure that production processes run smoothly by providing detailed models and clear assembly instructions.
4. Interior Design
Some draftsmen specialize in creating plans for interior layouts, including furniture placement, lighting design, and space optimization. Their work helps clients visualize and execute ideas for functional, attractive spaces.
5. Construction
Construction draftsmen develop site plans, foundations, and structural details to assist contractors and builders. They play a key role in ensuring projects are executed safely and accurately.
Tools of the Trade
Modern draftsmen rely on advanced tools and software to execute their work efficiently. Here are some essentials of the trade:
- CAD Software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SolidWorks): Used to create precise digital drawings and 3D models.
- Plotters and Printers: For producing large-scale blueprints for construction or manufacturing purposes.
- Measuring Tools: Tools like calipers and laser measurers aid in developing accurate designs.
- BIM Tools: Building Information Modeling tools help manage large-scale projects with multiple contributors.
- Virtual Reality Software: Some high-tech draftsmen increasingly use VR technologies for immersive design experiences.
Career Path and Education Requirements
Like most professions, a draftsman requires education, practical training, and relevant certifications to land a job in their field.
Educational Background
- To become a draftsman, an individual must complete an associate’s degree or get a professional draft of his/her diploma in a relevant field which includes engineering and engineering technology.
- Usually, students learn how to use CAD tools, mathematics, and other relevant industry specialties.
Relevant Certifications
- Having numerous certifications also gives an added advantage to the candidate. Autodesk Certified Professional or SolidWorks Certification are examples that can be beneficial.
- Professional certifications, such as those offered by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA), can enhance career prospects.
Career Growth
As a step further in his career, a junior draftsman may take specialized advanced positions like CAD technician, designer, and engineering technologist.
Some may get the chance to take senior positions like design manager or project coordinator.
Why Draftsmen are Essential in Modern Projects
Though often perceived without the due attention, modern draftsmen are as important as any other professionals. They help make sure that the designers have their dreams converted to a reality, while ensuring that precision and practicality blend in perfectly.
Whether it is an eco-friendly building or a state-of-the-art machine, there is no denying that draftsmen greatly contribute to innovation.
Efficiency, precision, and creativity are enhanced throughout every project through the synergy between draftsman and design teams.
Their knowledge reduces costs, cuts errors, and leaves no shred of uncertainty.
Also read: Architect Salary in Nigeria: A Detailed Analysis
Concluding Thoughts on Job description of a Draftsman
Knowing the job description of a Draftsman helps understand the complex skill set and set of responsibilities demanded by this career. Draftsmen will always be key players in the development of many sectors, especially with new technologies and advancements in their skill sets.
As a student trying to become a draftsman, or an employer searching to fill that role, grasping the Job description of a Draftsman is fundamental. It is without question that the skill and detail that draftsmen provide towards many industries are crucial and immensely central towards the industries success.