How to Be Construction Draftsman - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 24, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The increasing demand for construction services has caused a surge in the need for qualified construction draftsmen. This demand has created more job opportunities for those with the necessary skills and experience, providing a career path that is both lucrative and rewarding. The development of advanced computer-aided drafting (CAD) software has also enabled draftsmen to work more quickly and efficiently, saving time, money, and resources while producing accurate and detailed drawings.

As a result, construction projects can be completed faster, with fewer problems and improved quality control. In addition, the use of CAD software allows draftsmen to collaborate with other professionals, such as engineers and architects, in order to create a successful project.

Steps How to Become

Obtain an Education. Construction drafters typically need to have at least an associate's degree in drafting, architecture, or a related field.
Get On-the-Job Training. Draftsmen typically learn their trade through on-the-job training.
Obtain Certification. Construction drafters may want to obtain certification through organizations such as the American Design Drafting Association and the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies.
Join a Professional Organization. Becoming a member of a professional organization such as the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards or the American Institute of Architects can be beneficial for construction draftsmen.
Stay Up-to-Date on Technology. Construction drafters should stay up-to-date on the latest drafting software and techniques in order to stay competitive in the field.

As a construction draftsman, staying up to date and qualified is essential for success. To ensure qualifications remain current and up to date, it is important to complete continuing education or certifications. Taking courses in civil engineering, architecture, or construction management can help to increase knowledge and stay abreast of new regulations or technologies.

keeping up with new software releases and advancements can help improve the accuracy of drawings and increase efficiency. Furthermore, networking with other professionals in the industry can provide valuable resources and insight. All of these activities will help to guarantee that a construction draftsman remains current, qualified, and competitive in the industry.

You may want to check Construction Maintenance Technician, Construction Worker, and Construction Clerk for alternative.

Job Description

Analyze survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, aerial photography, and other topographical or geologic data to plan projects.
Compile and analyze data on topographic, soil composition, hydrological characteristics, and other features of terrain.
Prepare site plans and drawings for civil engineering projects such as highways, bridges, pipelines, flood control projects, and water and sewage systems.
Prepare drawings for grading, erosion control, and site restoration projects.
Lay out and plan the construction of foundations, structures, roads, and utilities.
Determine project costs and material requirements.
Prepare cost estimates for materials, labor, and equipment needed for construction projects.
Prepare detailed drawings of structural components.
Use computer-aided design (CAD) technology to produce designs and drawings.
Coordinate with other professionals, such as architects, engineers, surveyors, and inspectors, to ensure that plans are executed correctly.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of drafting techniques and tools
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and other relevant software
Strong spatial visualization skills
Ability to work with a wide range of technical data
Good eye for detail
Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
Excellent communication and organizational skills
Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Ability to meet deadlines and adhere to established schedules
Knowledge of building codes, regulations, and industry standards

Draftsman are highly skilled professionals who are responsible for creating detailed technical drawings and plans. These documents are used to construct a variety of projects from roads, buildings, and infrastructure to machinery, furniture, and other products. To produce these documents, a draftsman must possess a wide array of skills, the most important of which is a comprehensive knowledge of drafting software.

Draftsman must be able to not only accurately use the software, but also to create plans that are easy to read and understand, while also having the ability to modify and update existing plans as needed. In addition, a draftsman must possess strong mathematical, analytical, and communication skills, as well as a good understanding of the physics behind the construction of the project. Without these skills, it would be difficult for a draftsman to successfully complete their work.

Construction Project Administrator, Construction Design Engineer, and Lead Construction Worker are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the construction industry?
How familiar are you with AutoCAD and other drafting software?
Describe a difficult drafting project you have worked on and how you overcame it?
What challenges have you faced in the past when working with clients?
What do you consider your strengths and weaknesses as a Construction Draftsman?
What knowledge do you have of building codes and regulations?
Are you comfortable working with deadlines?
How do you prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects?
Are you familiar with cost estimating and budgeting?
What strategies do you use to ensure accuracy in your drawings?

Common Tools in Industry

AutoCAD. Computer-aided design (CAD) software used for creating 2D and 3D designs and models (eg: drafting floor plans).
SketchUp. 3D modeling program used for creating visual representations of architectural concepts (eg: creating 3D renderings).
Revit. Building information modeling (BIM) software used for creating virtual representations of buildings (eg: creating structural designs).
DraftSight. CAD software used for creating technical drawings for construction projects (eg: creating detailed plans).
Bluebeam Revu. Document management and collaboration software used for sharing and annotating construction documents (eg: adding notes to drawings).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Architects (AIA)
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
National Council of Structural Engineers Associations (NCSEA)
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO)
National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS)
Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)
American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC)

We also have Construction Manager Assistant, Construction Administrator, and Construction Accounting Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

CAD (Computer-Aided Design). An automated system used for the creation, modification, and optimization of design plans, typically in the construction and engineering industries.
BIM (Building Information Modeling). A 3D modeling system used to create a virtual representation of a building, including its components and systems.
Revit. A Building Information Modeling (BIM) software used to create 3D models of buildings and their components.
Structural Drafting. The process of creating detailed drawings of the structural components of a building or other structure.
Architectural Drafting. The process of creating detailed drawings of the architectural components of a building or other structure.
Construction Documents. The set of drawings, specifications, and other documents used to communicate the design intent of a project to contractors and other stakeholders.
Construction Specifications. Detailed instructions that outline the materials, construction methods, and finish requirements for a project.
Cost Estimation. The process of determining the expected cost of a project based on past experience and current market conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Construction Draftsman?

A Construction Draftsman is a professional who creates technical drawings and plans for construction projects using computer-aided design (CAD) software.

What skills do Construction Draftsmen need?

Construction Draftsmen need to be highly proficient in CAD software, have strong problem-solving skills, good spatial and technical skills, and be able to read and interpret blueprints.