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Drafter Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Senior Structural Drafter

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Substation Structural Drafter for our Lake Oswego, OR office. Be involved in projects with our Power Delivery Substation Civil/Structural Team and be a part ...

Senior Structural Drafter

Lake Oswego, OR

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Substation Structural Drafter for our Lake Oswego, OR office. Be involved in projects with our Power Delivery Substation Civil/Structural Team and be a part ...

Structural Drafter

Happy Valley, OR · Hybrid

$59K - $76K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Structural Drafter We are seeking a dedicated Structural CAD Drafter/Designer to join our Portland structural engineering team. This role involves closely collaborating with structural engineers to ...

Structural Drafter

Happy Valley, OR · Hybrid

$59K - $76K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Structural Drafter We are seeking a dedicated Structural CAD Drafter/Designer to join our Portland structural engineering team. This role involves closely collaborating with structural engineers to ...

Akana is seeking a Drafter to join our team. This is a hybrid position. The ideal candidate will reside near Seattle, Portland, or Las Vegas; some in-office days may be required. Travel to job sites ...

Remote Revit Drafter

Portland, OR · On-site

$20 - $42/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Revit Drafter is responsible for supporting the development and coordination of construction drawings and BIM models utilizing Revit. This role assists with the preparation of 2D and 3D project ...

Substation Structural Drafter

Lake Oswego, OR

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Substation Structural Drafter for our Lake Oswego, OR office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Civil/Structural Team and be a part ...

Controls Drafter

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$58K - $68K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Key Responsibilities: ● Precision Drafting: Create accurate, detailed electrical schematic and layout drawings based on sketches and instructions provided by our engineering team. ● Drawing Take ...

Drafter

Portland, OR · On-site

$60K - $85K/yr

Akana is seeking a Drafter to join our team. This is a hybrid position. The ideal candidate will reside near Seattle, Portland, or Las Vegas; some in-office days may be required. Travel to job sites ...

Substation Structural Drafter

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Substation Structural Drafter for our Lake Oswego, OR office. Be involved in projects with our Power & Energy Substation Civil/Structural Team and be a part ...

Controls Drafter

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$58K - $68K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Key Responsibilities: ● Precision Drafting: Create accurate, detailed electrical schematic and layout drawings based on sketches and instructions provided by our engineering team. ● Drawing Take ...

Provide technical support and collaborate with Sales, Drafting, and Manufacturing teams to improve design criteria and resolve production issues. * Maintain and update product design standards and ...

Provide technical support and collaborate with Sales, Drafting, and Manufacturing teams to improve design criteria and resolve production issues. * Maintain and update product design standards and ...

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Architectural Drafter / Production Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Architectural Drafter / Production Technician Location: Billings, MT Job Type: Full-Time | In-Office | Hourly Join a Collaborative Architecture Team A thriving, fast-paced, and team-oriented ...

AutoCAD Drafter

Portland, OR · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Structural Design & Fabrication CAD Detailer/Drafter Our client, located north of Vancouver, Washington, is seeking a highly skilled Structural Design & Fabrication CAD Detailer/Drafter to join their ...

AutoCAD Drafter

Portland, OR

$23.50 - $30/hr

Structural Design & Fabrication CAD Detailer/Drafter Our client, located north of Vancouver, Washington, is seeking a highly skilled Structural Design & Fabrication CAD Detailer/Drafter to join their ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drafter information

See Oregon salary details

$15

$28

$46

How much do drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafter in Oregon is $28.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $32.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a drafter do?

A drafter uses computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software to create plans for manufacturing, construction, or engineering projects. Your duties in this career involve working to create computer-aided drawings that include all necessary details and technical specifications. You may use specifications from an architect if you are drafting for buildings, an industrial designer if you are creating plans for products, or an engineer if you are making plans for engineering projects or structures. Your responsibilities also include making changes or correcting existing drawings under the direction of the architect or engineer.

What is a drafter?

Drafters are professionals who use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and plans used by engineers, architects, and construction workers. Their drawings detail the specifications, dimensions, and materials necessary for building everything from machinery to buildings. Drafters often specialize in fields such as architectural, civil, mechanical, or electrical drafting, depending on the industry. They play a crucial role in transforming design concepts into precise, workable diagrams for manufacturing or construction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drafter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drafter, you need strong spatial visualization, technical drawing abilities, and a background in engineering or architectural principles, often backed by an associate's degree or drafting certification. Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SolidWorks is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help drafters collaborate with engineers and architects and ensure design accuracy. These skills are crucial for producing precise technical drawings that guide construction and manufacturing projects successfully.

How does a drafter typically collaborate with engineers and architects during a project's lifecycle?

Drafters work closely with engineers and architects by translating their concepts and sketches into detailed technical drawings and plans. Throughout a project's lifecycle, drafters often participate in meetings to clarify design intent, update drawings based on feedback, and ensure all specifications are accurately represented. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential, as drafters must coordinate revisions and address any design or structural issues that arise. This collaborative workflow helps ensure that the final construction documents align with both regulatory standards and client expectations.

What is the difference between Drafter vs CAD Technician?

AspectDrafterCAD Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification in CAD software
Work EnvironmentArchitectural, engineering, manufacturing settingsDesign firms, engineering companies, manufacturing industries
Job FocusCreating technical drawings based on specificationsDeveloping, editing, and managing CAD models and drawings
Tools UsedManual drafting tools, CAD softwarePrimarily CAD software like AutoCAD, Revit

Both Drafters and CAD Technicians create technical drawings, but Drafters focus more on manual and traditional drafting methods, while CAD Technicians specialize in digital CAD modeling and editing. The roles often overlap, but CAD Technicians tend to have more advanced skills in CAD software, making them more involved in digital design processes.

Do drafters make a lot of money?

Drafters typically earn a moderate income that varies by industry, experience, and location. According to industry data, the median annual salary for drafters is around $55,000, with some specialized roles or those with advanced skills earning higher wages. Certification in CAD software can also influence earning potential.

Is a CAD drafter a good job?

A CAD drafter is a skilled professional who creates technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design software, often working in engineering, architecture, or manufacturing fields. The job offers steady employment opportunities, requires attention to detail, and benefits from proficiency in CAD tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. It can be a good career choice for those interested in technical design and precision work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drafter jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Drafter jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Drafter jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Drafter job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Drafter jobs in OR?

For Drafter jobs in OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Drafter job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,061 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Senior Structural Drafter

WSP

Lake Oswego, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description


WSP is currently initiating a search for a Substation Structural Drafter for our Lake Oswego, OR office. Be involved in projects with our Power Delivery Substation Civil/Structural Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our clients' objectives and solves their challenges.
This Opportunity
Provides technical design and CADD support to engineers and project managers to produce designs and specifications to be used for planning, transportation, infrastructure, and technical services business lines. Responsibilities involve generating CADD designs on various assigned projects of moderate- to larger-scale, scope, and/or complexity. Generates accurate and concise design phase deliverables including reports, technical memoranda, design manuals, plans and profiles, models, sections, details, specifications, and material lists. Ensures that responsibilities are delivered and adhered to with a level of quality that meets or exceeds acceptable industry standards for design, accuracy, and functionality.
Your Impact
  • Collect, compile, and analyze data from the physical work site, surveys, structural concepts, blueprints, schematics, data, verbal or written specifications, technical drawings, rough sketches, diagrams, and other matrices to support drafting and design activities for single, multi-phase, or multi-site project work.
  • Use 3D computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software and work closely with engineers to resolve design details or discrepancies, and to prepare drawings which require a high degree of precision on projects of moderate complexity and/or scope.
  • Follows standard practices to provide technical design assistance and guidance that accounts for the proper illustration, fit form, and function using geometric dimensioning, tolerance and quantity calculations, while ensuring the construction and maintainability of designs according to design standard specifications.
  • Acts as consultant regarding work progress and problem resolution; may serve as the only Drafting/Design Support resource on a project or assist in overseeing Drafting/Design Support activities for projects of a moderate scope and complexity within a district.
  • Verify accuracy of calculations, design, change orders, interpretation of contract plans and specifications, recognizing moderate to slightly intricate construction or engineering problems and escalating or resolving any differences, errors, or technical problems for appropriate resolution.
  • Work with cross-functional teams in executing project work.
  • Assure plans adhere to city code, state and federal regulations.
  • Prepare multiple versions of designs for review by engineer.
  • Monitor drafting and design plans to ensure quality control and contract compliance; documenting work progress and issues arising throughout scope of project.
  • Work collaboratively with the engineer-in-charge and other technical professionals on assigned project phases, segments, checks, and tasks.
  • Apply analytical techniques and software to solve more intricate and involved engineering issues on projects, or to modify or redesign existing designs in accordance with project standards and specifications.
  • Engage in occasional contact with client and contractor personnel to schedule and coordinate project drafting and design support review.
  • Provide guidance and training to entry-level drafting and design support staff.
  • Remain current in latest drafting and design support knowledge, techniques, and practices.
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.
Who You Are
Required Qualifications
  • High School Diploma.
  • Minimum of 9 years of relevant post education experience in discipline with prior drafting and design support experience.
  • Well-defined knowledge of drafting and design support principles, practices, process, methods and techniques.
  • Well-defined knowledge of relevant codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
  • Defined ability to make technical computations and calculations involving the application of geometry and mathematical concepts, understanding plans and specifications, and making factual comparisons to the appropriate standards or regulations.
  • Analytical mindset with an ability to exercise sound judgement in evaluating situations and making decisions.
  • Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to a technical and non-technical audience.
  • Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, accuracy, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Ability to learn new techniques, perform multiple tasks simultaneously, follow instruction, work independently, and comply with company policies.
  • Highly proficient with technical writing, office automation, software, technology, math principles, spreadsheets, and tools.
  • Developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to apply technical knowledge to reach conclusions from data collation, calculations, statistical analysis and arriving at the most effective and logical solution.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Preferred Qualifications :
  • Associate's Degree in closely related discipline is preferred.
  • Prior experience supporting structural engineering design for electrical utility substations, power delivery facilities, or similar heavy-infrastructure projects.
  • 10-12 years of drafting experience using AutoCAD and MicroStation.

WSP Benefits:
WSP provides a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career. These benefits include coverage related to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life; retirement savings; paid sick leave; paid vacation (or other personal time); paid parental leave; and paid time off for purposes of bereavement, voting, and/or attendance at naturalization proceedings.
Disclaimer
  • Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

#LI-JJ2
About Us
About WSP
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.
www.wsp.com
WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.
At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?
WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.
The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service.

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