Alexandria Drafting Jobs Overview
Do you have a hard time choosing between a creative and technical career? Consider applying for drafting jobs, where you can combine your artistic abilities with your computer skills to help craft new buildings, machinery, and infrastructure. Drafters—also known as draftsmen, draftspeople, or drafting technicians—translate the ideas of architects and engineers into technical drawings that are easy for construction or manufacturing crews to read and build. In this career, you'll be following in the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci, who many consider to be one of the first master drafters—his technical drawings of inventions were revolutionary.
Today, most drafters use computer-aided design (CAD) software or computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software. Drafters can also draw by hand using a tilting table or a drafting machine, but this is mostly limited to the concept stage. Software is used for the final design.
Drafters usually specialize in one of the following areas:
- Mechanical drafters prepare diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices.
- Architectural drafters work with architects to produce designs for buildings and infrastructure.
- Civil drafters work with civil engineers to create maps, drawings, and diagrams of buildings and infrastructure.
- Electrical and electronic drafters work with electrical and electronic engineers to produce diagrams and drawings of equipment and parts.
You can expand your search for engineering jobs by checking out these similar positions:
About Working in Alexandria, Virginia
Alexandria is a city of around 159,000 people in northeast Virginia, looking out on the Potomac River, and only a few miles from Washington DC. It’s one of the oldest European settlements and was once George Washington's hometown. Today, Alexandria is a city that keeps growing and is bustling with all sorts of activities. It even made the top three Best Small Cities in the U.S. in 2020. We’re not surprised you’re here to find jobs in Alexandria.
The city has a vibrant, young vibe and offers entertainment for every age group. You can take a stroll in Old Town, reach the waterfront and dine in one of the many restaurants and bars there. You also have various local shopping options. Some of the most interesting museums you can find in town include Gadsby’s Tavern Museum and the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum. If you’re into art, check out Torpedo Factory Art Center. If you like nature you can opt for Ben Brenman Park or Dora Kelley Nature Park.
Looking to expand your job possibilities? Explore the opportunities in nearby Arlington, Washington DC, and Manassas as well.
Update Your Alexandria Drafting Resume
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How Much Do Drafting Jobs Pay in Alexandria, Virginia?
Got money on your mind? You should! Make sure you’re getting paid what you’re worth. Our Salary Tools can help you understand what you can expect to make in drafting jobs in Alexandria, Virginia, as well as the skills that can boost your value and what the next steps in your career might be. Right now, the median drafter pay in Alexandria is $26.62 per hour, which is 6% higher than the national average.
Find Your Next Alexandria Drafting Job. Monster Can Help Get You Started
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