Job Summary:
Prepare layouts and blueprints for complete wiring with power points etc for buildings. To specify how the wiring is to be done, what gauge wire to be used, whether it is concealed and if so what type of pipes, whether iron, PVC or other such material to be used etc. For machines complete wiring diagrams to be prepared and connected to the main. Specify the type of transformer and rectifiers to be used, their capacity and functional diagram for such equipments. To prepare complete network diagram of electrical distribution systems of a unit. Each connection to be clearly shown the positive terminals, the negative terminals and the earthing terminals and how they are to be connected to the individual machines as well as the total electrical distribution system.

Not long ago, draftsmen used to rely on drawing boards, T-squares, pencils, pens, triangles, protractors, compasses, calculators etc. Nowadays they are trained to use Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD).

In the CADD system you can design any complicated part. You don’t use an eraser to erase anything, which is not correct as was done previously. You can do it by deleting the wrong portion by using the mouse and can see this happening in the monitor. You can store all the completed as well as jobs under progress in the computer and can recall any of these at will for further working. Revisions become possible with relative ease. Duplications become easy.

Generally, a blue print should indicate the size, format, exact location, bill of material, drawing number, scale, drawn by whom, checked by whom and an indication of direction.

Qualification:
Minimum post-secondary school. Draftsman training of 2 years duration. Draftsman diploma of 4 years after passing secondary school is quite good. There are early, middle and advance levels. Specialization is a must.

Salary Range:
Ranges from $24,000 per annum to $60,000 per annum.

Prospects:
There is a very good prospect for this specialization of drafting. With the revival of the old world economy, i.e., the brick and mortar economy in the offing, there is an excellent opportunity for electrical draftsmen. Again, the demand for draftsmen is linked to the cyclical changes of the economy. Boom – you have a very good demand. Recession - there is a lack of demand necessitating curtailing existing employment.