Electrical and Electronics Drafters Salary Guide 2025: $76,870 Median, -5.6% Decline
Electrical and electronics drafters earn a national median salary of $76,870, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The mean wage is $81,280, or about $37 per hour. Most drafters in this field make between $50,040 (10th percentile) and $120,290 (90th percentile). With 17,920 jobs nationwide, this is a specialized occupation with specific geographic and industry pay differences.
How much Electrical and Electronics Drafters earn
The median annual wage for electrical and electronics drafters is $76,870. Half of workers earn more than that; half earn less. The top 10% of earners bring in over $120,290, while the bottom 10% make under $50,040. Mean hourly pay works out to $39.07, or $81,280 annually.
Pay depends heavily on industry. Drafters in architectural and engineering services tend to earn more; those in manufacturing or local government typically earn less. Experience and certification also push pay upward.
Pay by state
Top-paying states for electrical and electronics drafters include New Hampshire ($102,070), New Mexico ($101,330), Massachusetts ($87,290), North Carolina ($81,960), and Idaho ($81,590). In these states, wages beat the national mean by 12% to 26%.
On the low end, South Dakota pays a mean of $50,840, Alabama $51,650, and Mississippi $58,780. Cost of living partly explains the gap, but competition and industry mix also matter.
How to become Electrical and Electronics Drafter
Most employers require an associate's degree in drafting or a related field, such as electrical engineering technology. Programs are offered at community colleges and technical institutes and typically take two years. Coursework includes CAD software, circuit design, and technical drawing.
After graduation, many drafters start as junior or apprentice drafters, working under experienced technicians or engineers. Certification is optional but helpful: the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers the Certified Drafter credential. Some states have no licensing requirements; others may require a license for specific work in public projects.
- Earn an associate's degree in drafting or electrical engineering technology.
- Build proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or similar CAD software.
- Gain entry-level experience through internships or apprenticeship roles.
- Consider ADDA certification to improve job prospects.
- Check state licensing requirements if working on public infrastructure projects.
Job outlook
Employment of electrical and electronics drafters is projected to decline 5.6% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 1,000 jobs. The BLS estimates about 1,700 openings per year due to replacement needs—workers retiring or leaving for other occupations.
The decline is driven by automation and CAD software that reduces the need for manual drafting. However, demand remains steady in specialized industries like renewable energy and aerospace, where complex electrical systems require human oversight and design.
Frequently asked questions
Is electrical and electronics drafter a good career?
It offers solid median pay of $76,870, but the field is shrinking. If you enjoy technical drawing and CAD work, it can be a stable career with opportunities in specific industries. However, job growth is negative, so competition may be higher.
What skills do electrical and electronics drafters need?
Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Revit), knowledge of electrical systems and standards, attention to detail, math skills, and the ability to read technical schematics. Communication skills are important for working with engineers.
What is the difference between an electrical drafter and an electronics drafter?
Electrical drafters focus on power distribution, wiring, and lighting systems. Electronics drafters work on circuit boards, control systems, and electronic components. Many professionals do both, but the BLS groups them together.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Electrical and Electronics Drafters data.