Circuit Design Drafter in Illinois Career Overview
As a Circuit Design Drafter, your role is integral to the development and realization of electronic circuits. You work closely with engineers and other professionals to convert concepts into precise technical drawings and layouts, ensuring that each design meets the required specifications and standards.
Key aspects of your role include:
Technical Drawings: You create detailed schematics and blueprints that illustrate the physical layout of circuits, integrating components like transistors, resistors, and capacitors.
Collaboration: You collaborate with electrical engineers to understand design requirements and ensure that the drafted circuits will function as intended.
Software Utilization: Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software is essential, allowing you to produce accurate and efficient designs, as well as modify existing layouts based on feedback or changes in requirements.
Quality Assurance: You ensure that the designs comply with industry standards and guidelines, conducting thorough checks and revisions to enhance reliability and performance.
Documentation: Maintaining detailed documentation of designs and revisions is important, as it aids in future reference, troubleshooting, and implementation of changes.
Your contribution as a Circuit Design Drafter is vital to the electronics industry, directly impacting the efficiency and effectiveness of electronic devices used in various applications, from consumer electronics to complex communication systems.
Circuit Design Drafter Salary in Illinois
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become a Circuit Design Drafter in Illinois
To become a Circuit Design Drafter, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training programs. Below are the recommended degree programs that can prepare you for this career:
Computer Engineering Technology: This program focuses on the integration of hardware and software, providing you with a strong foundation in circuit design, systems integration, and programming, which are essential for modern circuit design tasks.
CAD/CADD Drafting and Design Technology: Enrolling in this program will equip you with the skills necessary for creating technical drawings and plans using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software. You will learn how to produce precise and detailed designs, which is critical for circuit drafting.
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology: This program covers the principles of electricity, electronics, and circuit design at an engineering technology level. It is designed to enhance your understanding of electrical systems, giving you a solid background in the theoretical and practical applications of circuit design.
Electrical and Electronics Drafting and CAD: In this program, you will learn specialized drafting techniques specifically for electrical and electronic systems. The curriculum will include training in CAD software, allowing you to create detailed schematics and diagrams for circuit layouts.
Drafting and Design Technology: This program provides a broad overview of drafting techniques and design processes. You will gain experience in various types of design, including electrical, which is essential for preparing circuit designs and documentation.
Pursuing one of these degree programs will provide you with the educational foundation necessary to advance in the field of circuit design drafting. Be sure to research each program to determine which aligns best with your career goals and interests.
Best Schools to become a Circuit Design Drafter in Illinois 2024
Olympic College
San Jacinto Community College
Academy of Art University
Jefferson Community and Technical College
Front Range Community College
Valencia College
- Prepare wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, and layout drawings used for the manufacture, installation, or repair of electrical equipment.
Circuit Design Drafter Required Skills and Competencies in Illinois
Proficiency in CAD Software: You need a strong command of computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD, Altium Designer, or SolidWorks to create precise circuit schematics and layouts.
Understanding of Circuit Theory: A solid grasp of electrical and electronic circuit principles allows you to design effective and efficient circuits.
Technical Drawing Skills: You should possess the ability to produce clear and detailed technical drawings that communicate design intent accurately to engineers and manufacturers.
Attention to Detail: Your work requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure that designs are accurate and comply with specifications and industry standards.
Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to think critically and troubleshoot problems that arise during the design process is essential for developing innovative solutions.
Communication Skills: You must effectively communicate with engineers, project managers, and other team members to clarify design requirements and ensure project objectives are met.
Familiarity with Industry Standards: Knowledge of relevant regulations and standards, such as IPC (Institute of Printed Circuits) standards, is important for ensuring compliance and quality in your designs.
Time Management: Strong organizational skills help you prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects efficiently, meeting deadlines without compromising quality.
Collaboration Skills: You should be able to work collaboratively in team environments, responding constructively to input and suggestions from others.
Adaptability to New Technologies: A willingness to learn and adapt to rapidly changing technologies and tools is important in maintaining your relevance and effectiveness in the field.
Job Duties for Circuit Design Drafters
Assemble documentation packages and produce drawing sets to be checked by an engineer or an architect.
Draft detail and assembly drawings of design components, circuitry or printed circuit boards, using computer-assisted equipment or standard drafting techniques and devices.
Draft working drawings, wiring diagrams, wiring connection specifications, or cross-sections of underground cables, as required for instructions to installation crew.
Computer aided design CAD software
- Autodesk Revit
- Bentley MicroStation
Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Epicor Vantage ERP
- SAP software
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
People and Technology Systems
- Thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Job Market and Opportunities for Circuit Design Drafter in Illinois
The job market for Circuit Design Drafters in Illinois reflects a steady demand driven by advancements in technology and an expanding electronics industry. Here are some key aspects to consider:
Current Demand:
- There is an increasing need for skilled circuit design drafters as industries such as consumer electronics, telecommunications, and renewable energy technologies continue to grow.
- Employers are seeking professionals who can combine technical knowledge with the ability to produce accurate and detailed drawings.
Growth Potential:
- The circuit design field is expected to experience growth due to the rise of new technologies and the ongoing evolution of existing systems.
- As companies expand their operations and invest in research and development, there will be a heightened requirement for drafters to support product design and development phases.
Geographical Hotspots:
- Illinois boasts several key locations where the demand for circuit design drafters is notably high:
- Chicago: As a major metropolitan hub, Chicago offers numerous opportunities in various sectors, including telecommunications, automotive, and consumer electronics.
- Schaumburg and the Northwest Suburbs: This area is home to many technology firms and engineering companies, further driving the demand for circuit design professionals.
- Peoria: With a growing focus on manufacturing and technology integration, Peoria is developing as a location for circuit design opportunities, especially within the engineering and defense sectors.
- Illinois boasts several key locations where the demand for circuit design drafters is notably high:
Industry Diversification:
- Circuit design drafters are finding opportunities not only in traditional electronics firms but also in fields such as aerospace, biomedical instrumentation, and automotive technologies.
- The push towards smart devices and Internet of Things (IoT) applications is also contributing to the demand for skilled professionals in circuit design.
This landscape presents a promising outlook for circuit design drafters looking to enter or advance their careers in Illinois.
Top Related Careers to Circuit Design Drafter 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become a Circuit Design Drafter in Illinois
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET)
Explore certification options and resources for engineering technicians, including circuit design.
NICETIEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
Access a wealth of publications, conferences, and networking opportunities related to electrical engineering and circuit design.
IEEESociety of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
Find resources related to manufacturing processes and technology, including circuit design and drafting standards.
SMEAmerican Design Drafting Association (ADDA)
This organization offers resources to enhance your drafting skills and knowledge, focusing on standards and practices in design drafting.
ADDAAutoCAD Learning Resources
Utilize official AutoCAD tutorials, webinars, and user forums to refine your drafting skills using AutoCAD software, widely used in circuit design.
AutoCADElectrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE Xplore Digital Library)
Access academic papers, journals, and conference proceedings that provide insights into the latest research and developments in the field of circuit design.
IEEE XploreCoursera: Circuit Design Courses
Explore online courses that cover the principles and applications of circuit design, often offered by leading universities.
CourseraLinkedIn Learning: AutoCAD and Circuit Design
Find courses and video tutorials that focus on AutoCAD and electrical circuit design techniques.
LinkedIn LearningState of Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES)
Access information on job outlook, labor market trends, and resources for education and training in technical fields.
IDESYour Local Community College
Check with nearby community colleges such as College of DuPage or Elgin Community College for programs in electrical engineering technology or circuit design drafting.
College of DuPage
Elgin Community CollegeNational Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
Connect with professional engineers and access resources for continuing education, ethics, and best practices in engineering.
NSPE
These resources will help you expand your knowledge, stay current in the field, and connect with professionals and organizations that support your career as a Circuit Design Drafter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Circuit Design Drafter in Illinois
What is the primary role of a Circuit Design Drafter?
Your main responsibility as a Circuit Design Drafter is to create detailed schematics and layouts for electronic circuits using computer-aided design (CAD) software. You will collaborate with engineers to ensure that designs meet specifications and industry standards.What qualifications are needed to become a Circuit Design Drafter?
Typically, you need an associate degree or a certificate in electronics or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software and a strong understanding of electrical principles are essential.What skills are important for a Circuit Design Drafter?
Important skills include:- Proficiency in CAD software
- Strong attention to detail
- Knowledge of electrical components and systems
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
- Effective communication skills for collaboration with engineers and other professionals
What industries employ Circuit Design Drafters in Illinois?
You can find employment opportunities in various industries, including:- Electronics manufacturing
- Telecommunications
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Renewable energy
Is certification necessary for Circuit Design Drafters?
While certification is not mandatory, obtaining credentials such as Certified Engineering Technician (CET) can enhance your job prospects and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.What is the job outlook for Circuit Design Drafters in Illinois?
The job outlook is steady, driven by the continuous demand for electronic devices and systems. With advancements in technology, there may be an increased need for skilled drafters.What is the average salary for Circuit Design Drafters in Illinois?
Salaries vary based on experience, education, and specific sectors, but the average salary ranges from $55,000 to $75,000 per year.Can I advance my career as a Circuit Design Drafter?
Yes, with experience and further education, you can advance to roles such as Senior Drafter, Electronics Engineer, or Project Manager. Continuous learning and certification can facilitate this progression.What tools and software do Circuit Design Drafters usually use?
You will typically use CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Eagle, along with simulation tools like SPICE for circuit analysis.How can I gain experience as a Circuit Design Drafter?
You can gain experience through internships during your education, entry-level positions, or by working on personal projects that showcase your skills in circuit design and drafting. Networking in professional associations can also lead to opportunities.