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Associate Drafter Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Associate degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field OR equivalent hands-on engineering drafting experience. * 3+ years drafting mechanical and/or electrical components for defense ...

Associate degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field OR equivalent hands-on engineering drafting experience. * 3+ years drafting mechanical and/or electrical components for defense ...

Associate's degree in engineering, drafting, design, graphic arts or a related field * Proficiency using SOLIDWORKS, AutoCAD, Autodesk and Microsoft Office software The Kelly Group offers a complete ...

Drafting Technician

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Associate's degree in engineering, drafting, design, graphic arts or a related field * Proficiency using SOLIDWORKS, AutoCAD, Autodesk and Microsoft Office software The Kelly Group offers a complete ...

Be Seen First

Associates at our firm take on meaningful responsibility early in their careers. This includes ... Drafting and reviewing operating agreements, articles, bylaws, and other governance documents

Be Seen First

Associates at our firm take on meaningful responsibility early in their careers. This includes ... Drafting and reviewing operating agreements, articles, bylaws, and other governance documents

Relocation assistance

Be Seen First

Associates at our firm take on meaningful responsibility early in their careers. This includes ... Drafting and reviewing operating agreements, articles, bylaws, and other governance documents

Relocation assistance

Be Seen First

Associates at our firm take on meaningful responsibility early in their careers. This includes ... Drafting and reviewing operating agreements, articles, bylaws, and other governance documents

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Drafter information

Do drafters make a lot of money?

Associate drafters typically earn a moderate salary that varies by industry, experience, and location. Entry-level drafters may start with lower wages, while experienced professionals with skills in CAD software can earn higher salaries. Overall, drafting is considered a stable career with potential for salary growth through skill development and certifications.

How does an Associate Drafter typically collaborate with engineers and architects during a project?

Associate Drafters work closely with engineers and architects, translating their concepts and technical details into precise drawings and plans. Collaboration often involves regular meetings to review project requirements, make adjustments based on feedback, and ensure that designs adhere to industry standards and regulations. Drafters may also help coordinate revisions, incorporate redlines, and clarify details to prevent costly errors, making strong communication skills and attention to detail essential in this role.

What are Associate Drafters?

Associate Drafters are entry-level professionals who use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and plans used in construction, engineering, and manufacturing projects. They work under the supervision of senior drafters or engineers to translate specifications and sketches into detailed blueprints. Their responsibilities often include revising drawings, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining project documentation. Associate Drafters play a vital role in ensuring that designs are accurate and meet project requirements.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters perform detailed technical drawings and design work that require creativity and understanding of engineering principles. While AI tools can assist with automating repetitive tasks and generating basic drafts, human expertise remains essential for complex design decisions, quality control, and customization. Therefore, CAD drafters are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI in the near future, but their roles may evolve to include managing and interpreting AI-generated outputs.

Are drafters still in demand?

Associate drafters are still in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, where precise technical drawings are essential. Employment opportunities often depend on proficiency with CAD software and industry experience, with steady demand expected as construction and product development continue to grow.

What can I do with an Associates in drafting?

An associate's degree in drafting prepares individuals for roles such as drafter or CAD technician, where they create technical drawings and plans using software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Graduates can work in industries like architecture, engineering, or manufacturing, often collaborating with engineers and architects to develop detailed project designs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Drafter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Drafter, you need a solid understanding of drafting principles, technical drawing, and familiarity with engineering or architectural standards, typically supported by an associate degree or technical certification in drafting. Proficiency in CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks) and knowledge of document management systems are commonly required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help drafters work accurately and collaborate with engineers and designers. These skills ensure precise, efficient production of technical drawings that are critical for successful project execution.
What are the most commonly searched types of Drafter jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Drafter jobs in Indiana are:
Engineering Drafter SPY-1

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Kratos Defense is currently seeking an Engineering Drafter in support of the SPY-1 Radar Program in Crane, Indiana. The Engineering Drafter (Radar Systems / Navy Programs) provides technical drafting and documentation support for U.S. Navy radar systems, subassemblies, and shipboard equipment. This role converts engineering concepts, field-service findings, depot-level repair data, and legacy Navy technical documentation into accurate, configuration-controlled drawing packages. The Drafter collaborates with radar engineers, technicians, logistics teams, and manufacturing personnel to support modernization, sustainment, and restoration of Navy radar capabilities.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Radar & Navy System Drafting

  • Prepare, update, and maintain detailed drawings for radar components, cabinets, arrays, phase shifter drivers (PSD), power supplies, waveguides, cabling, cooling systems, and electronic modules.
  • Generate mechanical, electrical, and electro-mechanical drawings that align with U.S. Navy technical data requirements and applicable MIL-STDs.
  • Translate engineering notes, depot repair observations, reverse-engineered components, and GFI technical manuals into formal drawing packages.

Support for Sustainment, Harvesting & Depot Repairs

  • Create or revise documentation supporting equipment harvesting, cabinet restoration, 2M-level repairs, and end-of-life component replacements.
  • Build drawing packages to support reassembly, refurbishment, and test of radar equipment (e.g., SPY-1 or similar Navy systems).
  • Develop or update BOMs, install drawings, wiring diagrams, schematics, and cable harness documentation for radar subsystems.

Engineering Collaboration

  • Work closely with radar engineers, field technicians, and manufacturing leads to resolve discrepancies and ensure technical accuracy.
  • Integrate redlines from engineering walkdowns, ship checks, depot reviews, and government review cycles.
  • Participate in drawing reviews, design reviews, and CM/DM boards.

Configuration Management & Documentation Control

  • Maintain drawing control within CM/DM systems such as PTC Windchill or equivalent.
  • Manage revisions, ECO/ECR workflows, and metadata updates to ensure compliance with program baselines.
  • Ensure documentation aligns with MIL-STD-31000, NAVSEA drafting standards, and other applicable Navy data deliverables.

Technical Data Generation & Compliance

  • Support creation of drawing packages required for Logistics Product Data (LPD), technical manuals, provisioning, maintenance procedures, and government deliverables.
  • Ensure all drafting work meets DoD, NAVSEA, and program-specific formatting, marking, and classification requirements.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Proficiency in CAD platforms such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CREO, or Inventor.
  • Ability to read and interpret radar drawings, Navy technical manuals, schematics, block diagrams, wiring diagrams, and legacy MIL-SPEC documentation.
  • Understanding of shipboard cable routing, enclosure design, radar cooling architecture, grounding/bonding standards, and EMI/EMC considerations.
  • Familiarity with DoD/Navy technical data practices and configuration management workflows.
  • Experience working with legacy and modern Navy radar systems preferred (e.g., AN/SPY-1, SPS-49, SPQ-9B, illumination radars, signal processors, antenna arrays).
  • Strong ability to apply GD&T and ASME Y14 drafting standards.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

  • Associate degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field OR equivalent hands-on engineering drafting experience.
  • 3+ years drafting mechanical and/or electrical components for defense, aerospace, naval, or radar systems.
  • Experience creating drawing packages supporting manufacturing, repair, or sustainment activities.

DESIRED / PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

  • Prior experience supporting NAVSEA, PEO IWS, NSWC, defense contractors, or Fleet sustainment programs.
  • Experience drafting components related to antenna arrays, signal processors, radar cabinets, or shipboard power systems.
  • Background or familiarity with 2M repair standards, test stations, or electronics refurbishment is highly desirable.
  • Experience producing drawings from legacy Navy technical data or incomplete documentation (reverse engineering).
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance (Top Secret preferred for some radar programs).

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. Citizenship required due to DoD contract obligations.
  • Ability to handle sensitive and classified information per Navy and DoD requirements.
  • Ability to support occasional travel to shipyards, government test sites, or radar facilities for walkdowns or data collection.

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