Mechanical Drafters

About the job

Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.

What you'll do

• Compute mathematical formulas to develop and design detailed specifications for components or machinery using computer-assisted equipment.
• Confer with customer representatives to review schematics and answer questions pertaining to installation of systems.
• Design scale or full-size blueprints of specialty items such as furniture and automobile body or chassis components.
• Draw freehand sketches of designs, trace finished drawings onto designated paper for the reproduction of blueprints, and reproduce working drawings on copy machines.
• Lay out, draw, and reproduce illustrations for reference manuals and technical publications to describe operation and maintenance of mechanical systems.
• Modify and revise designs to correct operating deficiencies or to reduce production problems.
• Position instructions and comments onto drawings.
• Review and analyze specifications, sketches, drawings, ideas, and related data to assess factors affecting component designs and the procedures and instructions to be followed.
• Shade or color drawings to clarify and emphasize details and dimensions or eliminate background using ink, crayon, airbrush, and overlays.
• Supervise and train other drafters, technologists, and technicians.

Things you need to know

• Design – Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
• Engineering and Technology – 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.
• Mathematics – Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
• Mechanical – Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
• Computers and Electronics – Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Abilities you'll need to have

• Active Learning – Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
• Critical Thinking – Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
• Speaking – Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Mathematics – Using mathematics to solve problems.
• Active Listening – 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.
• Complex Problem Solving – Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Writing – Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.