Engineering Draughts Person

Tasks & duties

Engineering draughts people may do some or all of the following:

• study sketches, information and instructions from clients or engineers
• draw rough layouts of proposed structures, machines or products
• write detailed building-assembly or process instructions and specifications
• make detailed drawings of planned structures or machines using computer-aided design (CAD) software
• make any necessary changes to designs or drawings
• calculate the cost and amount of materials required
• follow procedures to ensure the quality, safety and fitness of structures, machines or products

Skills & knowledge

Engineering draughtspeople need to have:

• knowledge of engineering concepts, technical drawing symbols, and the New Zealand conventions for draughting
• the ability to interpret drawings and visualise a plans or drawings in three dimensions
• computer skills, including the ability to use computer-aided design (CAD) software.
• skill in analysing and interpreting information such as client requirements, plans and designs
• an understanding of the consequences of any design changes to a whole project
• knowledge of building construction and civil engineering
• knowledge of relevant legislation such as the Resource Management Act, the New Zealand Building Code, local by-laws and town planning regulations
• problem-solving, planning and organisational skills
• good communication skills
• writing skills for producing reports

Entry requirements

To become an engineering draughts person, you need a Diploma in Engineering (which has replaced the New Zealand Certificate in Engineering) or an equivalent diploma. Some employers prefer engineering draughts people to be members of the Institution of Professional Engineers of New Zealand (IPENZ).

Secondary education

Bursary or NCEA equivalent is recommended to enter tertiary training. Useful subjects include English, maths, physics, graphic design and technology.

Tertiary education

A Diploma in Engineering (which has replaced the New Zealand Certificate in Engineering) or an equivalent diploma is needed.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Once engineering draughts people graduate with an engineering qualification, they can participate in an on-the-job training programme with the Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ). Engineering draughts people may also attend seminars and draughting courses, and consult manuals and regulations to keep up with new information.

Useful experience

Useful experience for engineering draughtspeople includes work in the engineering or building construction industry or any work with tools and machinery.

Related courses

Architecture
Water and Sanitary Engineering

For more information, please refer to Career Services.