How to Become a Mechanical Drafters in Texas
Mechanical Drafters in Texas earn a median salary of $76,740/year, which is 12% above the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a mechanical drafters takes home approximately $3,786/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a mechanical drafters can afford in Texas
Becoming a mechanical drafters in Texas
Meet education requirements
Mechanical Drafters positions in Texas typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many mechanical drafters positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for mechanical drafterss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 3,460 mechanical drafters. The highest concentrations are in Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands and Midland.
Mechanical Drafters salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $85K | $40.69/hr | 1,360 |
| Midland | $83K | $39.85/hr | 70 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $81K | $39.03/hr | 250 |
| Waco | $73K | $34.97/hr | 40 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $72K | $34.65/hr | 830 |
| Longview | $72K | $34.54/hr | 40 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $67K | $32.03/hr | 180 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $65K | $31.1/hr | 70 |
| El Paso | $61K | $29.17/hr | 40 |
| Amarillo | $60K | $28.81/hr | 40 |
| Corpus Christi | $56K | $27.04/hr | 30 |
Mechanical Drafters salary range in Texas
Mechanical Drafters careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a mechanical drafters make in Texas?▼
The median mechanical drafters salary in Texas is $76,740 per year ($36.9/hr). This is 12% above the national median of $68,510. Salaries range from $49,030 to $126,870.
What are the requirements to become a mechanical drafters in Texas?▼
Mechanical Drafters positions in Texas typically require Bachelor's degree. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a mechanical drafters afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $76,740, a mechanical drafters in Texas would take home approximately $5,198/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for mechanical drafters in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for mechanical drafters in Texas are Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands ($84,640), Midland ($82,880), Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($81,180). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for mechanical drafters?▼
No, Texas does not have a state income tax. This means mechanical drafters keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.