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Mechanical Drafters
Also called : CAD Designer (Computer Aided Design Designer), CAD Operator (Computer Aided Design Operator), Design Drafter, Drafter, Drafting Technician, Mechanical Designer, Mechanical Drafter, Product Designer,
What they do
Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
On the job, one would
- Develop detailed design drawings and specifications for mechanical equipment, dies, tools, and controls, using computer-assisted drafting (CAD) equipment.
- Produce three-dimensional models, using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
- Lay out and draw schematic, orthographic, or angle views to depict functional relationships of components, assemblies, systems, and machines.
- Modify and revise designs to correct operating deficiencies or to reduce production problems.
- Review and analyze specifications, sketches, drawings, ideas, and related data to assess factors affecting component designs and the procedures and instructions to be followed.
KNOWLEDGE
- Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
- Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
- Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
- Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
SKILLS
- Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
- Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
- Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
- Mathematics
Using mathematics to solve problems.
- Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
ABILITIES
- Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
- Mathematical Reasoning
The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a problem.
- Visualization
The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when its parts are moved or rearranged.
- Fluency of Ideas
The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity).
- Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
PERSONALITY
People interested in this work, will do well at jobs that need;
- Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
- Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.
- Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
- Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.
- Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
- Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
- Innovation
Job requires creativity and alternative thinking to develop new ideas for and answers to work-related problems.
- Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
- Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
- Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
TECHNOLOGY
- Computer aided design CAD software
- Computer aided manufacturing CAM software
- Data base user interface and query software
- Document management software
- Enterprise application integration software
- Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Geographic information system
- Graphics or photo imaging software
- Materials requirements planning logistics and supply chain software
- Office suite software
- Optical character reader OCR or scanning software
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
- Preparation
Medium Preparation Needed
- Education
Training in vocational schools or an Associate deg
- Experience
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.
- Jobtraining
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.