Building draftsman

What does a Building Drafter do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A building drafter works on developing drawings and technical documentation for construction projects, often in close collaboration with architects, civil engineers, and designers. Tasks include creating detailed construction drawings, updating existing plans, and ensuring compliance with current building codes and standards. Building drafters utilize digital tools and CAD programs to visualize projects and communicate technical solutions to contractors and clients. The work environment is usually office-based, but site visits are common for measuring or inspecting execution.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary development for building drafters has been positive over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 45,900 SEK per month, increasing to 49 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average monthly salary has risen further to 50 200 SEK. The total increase amounts to approximately 9.4% over three years, reflecting steady demand for the profession and ongoing technological development within the construction sector. Salary increases are partly driven by the growing need for specialist skills in digital drafting tools and energy-efficient buildings. The market has also been influenced by general salary enhancements in technical professions and increased pressure on the construction and civil engineering sector.

Building Drafter Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 50 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,400 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 57,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, research education)
• Highest salary for men: 52,500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary for men: 46,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 302 SEK
• Women: 47 300 SEK (92% of men's salary)
• Men: 51 200 SEK

Education and Qualifications

To work as a building drafter, a technical education at vocational or university level is usually required, often focused on construction, civil engineering, or technology. Many employers also value skills in CAD programs and experience with drafting and construction processes. Depending on the employer, both longer university degrees and shorter vocational courses may be relevant.

• Formal education: Vocational or university education (2–3 years) in construction, civil engineering, or technology
• Certifications: Courses in CAD programs and construction technology are advantageous
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or trainee programs are recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and technical interest
• Tips: Engagement with digital tools and self-study in new programs increase employability

Common Benefits and Compensation

Building drafters are often offered competitive benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, and flexible working hours. Opportunities for professional development, subsidized lunches, and sometimes favorable remote work conditions are common. Business trips and reimbursement for work-related expenses can also occur depending on the size and focus of the employer.

Competition and Challenges

The competition within the building drafting profession is considered moderate, with a balance between the supply of qualified workers and market demand. Challenges include rapid technological development within digital tools and standards, requiring continuous skill updates. Another challenge is adapting to changing building regulations and increased sustainability demands. Employers may find it difficult to find candidates with the right specialized knowledge, especially in digital project planning and energy-efficient solutions. The profession is also affected by economic fluctuations in the construction sector, which can influence project volume and workload.

Tips for Aspiring Building Drafters

To succeed as a building drafter, it’s beneficial to combine technical interest with accuracy and problem-solving skills. Early immersion in CAD programs and other digital drafting tools provides an advantage in the job market. Good communication skills are also important, as work often involves teamwork and clear dialogue with colleagues and clients. Flexibility is a valuable asset, especially when project conditions change rapidly and new requirements emerge. Actively seeking internships increases employment chances and provides valuable industry insight. Curiosity about technological innovations makes it easier to stay updated and attractive as a candidate. Finally, patience and perseverance are key, as drafting sometimes involves many revisions before the final result is achieved.

Key Facts about Building Drafters

• Education level: Vocational or university education in construction/technology, 2–3 years
• Work environment: Office-based with site visits
• Work arrangement: Usually full-time, sometimes project-based
• Demand: Moderate, with forecasted increase over the next five years
• Special skills: CAD, BIM, and digital project planning

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years of experience, a building drafter can advance to roles such as project manager, BIM coordinator, or specialist in digital project planning. There are also opportunities for further education to become a construction engineer or to take responsibility for larger and more complex projects. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job prospects for building drafters and related technical professions are currently moderate, with an expected increase in demand over the next five years. This trend is driven by increased need for technical skills, digitization, and sustainability requirements within the construction sector. Currently, there are 378 job openings in the field, indicating a stable job market for those entering the profession.

Frequently Asked Questions about Building Drafters

• What is the average salary of a Building Drafter?
  - A building drafter has an average monthly salary of 50 200 SEK.
• What does the salary gap between women and men look like?
  - Women earn 47 300 SEK on average, which corresponds to 92% of men's average salary of 51 200 SEK.
• What education is required to become a building drafter?
  - Typically, vocational or university education in construction, civil engineering, or technology, along with CAD skills.
• Are there good future prospects for building drafters?
  - The forecast indicates increasing demand over the next five years, with moderate current job opportunities.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 57,900 SEK (female, government sector, research education), and the lowest is 41,400 SEK (female, public sector).
• Does a building drafter mainly work in offices or on construction sites?
  - Mainly in offices, but site visits to construction sites occur regularly.