Industrial drafters work in various industrial sectors. Sometimes called technical drafters, these professionals play an important role in the development of industrial products like machinery, engines, equipment. Any component that needs to be rendered in detailed visual format before being manufactured will first be drawn by an industrial drafter.
The recruiters from our engineering recruitment agency explains what people with a passion for technology and geometry can look forward to when they work in industrial drafting.
What is an industrial drafter?
An industrial drafter (or draftsman) produces the technical plans required to manufacture industrial products. They work in collaboration with engineers, technicians and other industry professionals to design quality products according to relevant standards and technical constraints.
The main duties in industrial drafting are:
- To design and create plans, schematics and technical drawings according to specifications provided by engineers or technicians
- To create models of parts and assemblies in 3D using CAD (Computer Aided Design) software
- To create general plans, detailed plans, assembly plans and manufacturing plans
- To create models and prototypes
- To manage technical documentation related to design projects
Industrial drafters can work in various sectors including aeronautics, automotive, energy and agri-food. They can be employed in large companies, SMEs or design offices.
Industrial drafting duties and responsibilities
This industrial engineering job requires specific technical skills.
An industrial drafter must master the use of CAD/CAM software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor or Catia. They must also have a good knowledge of relevant norms and standards for the sector they work in, such as ISO, aerospace or automotive industry standards.
They must be able to read and understand technical plans, schematics and drawings provided by engineers and designers. They must also understand the manufacturing processes of products so they can generate drawings that accommodate manufacturing constraints.
An industrial draftsman must have a good knowledge of the materials used to manufacture products, so that they can apply this knowledge and generate plans for objects that will eventually be produced for practical use.
They must be able to communicate effectively with engineers, designers and machine operators so that they can produce clear and accurate drawings. They also need problem-solving skills to cope with any challenges that might arise, and a sense of responsibility for creating plans that are feasible and functional.
Finally, an industrial drafter must be capable of drawing in 3D to portray the shape and structure of products as clearly as possible.
How to become an industrial drafter in Quebec
To find employment as an industrial drafter in Quebec you need a Diploma of Vocational Studies (DVS) in Industrial Drafting.
An Industrial Drafting Techniques program trains professionals to produce technical drawings which will be used as references for manufacturing industrial products. Students learn the basics of geometry, trigonometry, the characteristics of industrial materials and mechanical components, and how to use CAD (Computer Aided Design) software.
The DVS program in industrial design includes both theoretical and practical courses. Students must also complete an internship in a company to acquire practical work experience.
Some positions may also require a DEC in Mechanical Engineering.
After obtaining their DVS, industrial drafters can further their training by specializing in a particular field or learning to use specific software.
Industrial drafter salary in Quebec
Depending on their experience, industrial drafters can expect a median salary of $25 per hour in Quebec, according to the Government of Canada Job Bank.
Career opportunities for industrial drafters in Quebec
In Quebec, industrial drafters are highly sought-after professionals. Industrial drafters can work in a diverse range of industries including aeronautics, automotive, construction and electronics manufacturing.
Most industrial drafters in Quebec are employed by large industrial companies, design offices, engineering firms or manufacturing companies.
The outlook for industrial drafting jobs is positive, as the need for industrial product design continues to grow with the development of new and innovative technologies.
Industrial drafters can also find employment abroad in countries where industrial product drafting is in high demand like the United States, France, Germany and China.
Find a job in industrial drafting at Fed Manutech
As an industrial drafter you will help bring concrete projects to life. An industrial drafting career combines creativity and respect for technical constraints, and allows you to play a role in manufacturing products that are useful to society.
If you are looking for a job as an industrial draftsman or another profession in engineering or industry, Fed Manutech is here for you. Submit a spontaneous application: we will be thrilled to help you make your career plans a reality.