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Drafter Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Yellowstone Local

Designer Drafter

Salem, OR · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

If you take pride in accurate drafting, enjoy solving design challenges, and want your work to support critical infrastructure projects, this opportunity puts your skills to work where they matter ...

Yellowstone Local

Designer Drafter

Salem, OR · On-site

$27 - $32/hr

If you take pride in accurate drafting, enjoy solving design challenges, and want your work to support critical infrastructure projects, this opportunity puts your skills to work where they matter ...

WSP

Senior Structural Drafter

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

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 ...

WSP

Senior Structural Drafter

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

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 ...

Akana

Drafter

Portland, OR · Hybrid

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 ...

Akana

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 ...

Automation Solutions

Controls Drafter

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$58K - $68K/yr

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

WSP

Substation Structural Drafter

Lake Oswego, OR · On-site

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 ...

Automation Solutions

Controls Drafter

Beaverton, OR · On-site

$58K - $68K/yr

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

WSP

Substation Structural Drafter

Lake Oswego, OR

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 ...

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Drafter-Designer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

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 ...

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Drafter-Designer

Tualatin, OR

$27 - $31/hr

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 ...

ITW Gaylord Industries

Drafter-Designer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

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 ...

Russell Tobin

Civil Drafter

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$38.32/hr

Review incoming drawings for proper layering, formatting, naming conventions, and applicable drafting standards. * File project close-out documentation and maintain permit records. * Work with ...

New

Astronics

Designer Drafter

Clackamas, OR · On-site

We are looking for a Designer Drafter to join our team. In this role you would be working with specifications and instructions from our Mechanical and Tooling Engineers to generate 3D CAD models and ...

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All JobsDrafter JobsDrafter Jobs in Oregon

Drafter information

See Oregon salary details

$15

$28

$46

How much do drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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.
More about Drafter jobs

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

What job categories do people searching Drafter jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for 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:

Drafter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drafter job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,061 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Designer Drafter

Yellowstone Local

Salem, OR • On-site

$27 - $32/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Yellowstone Local is proud to represent Western Utility Telecom, a trusted leader in steel structures and infrastructure solutions for the utility and telecommunications industries.

If you take pride in accurate drafting, enjoy solving design challenges, and want your work to support critical infrastructure projects, this opportunity puts your skills to work where they matter most.

What’s in it for You?

  • Hourly pay ranging from $27 to $32 based on experience

  • Additional earning opportunities through overtime and performance incentives

  • Full-time, stable position with consistent scheduling

  • Health insurance options, retirement plans, and paid time off

  • Opportunities for long-term advancement and continued skill development

  • Access to modern drafting technology and experienced mentorship

  • Supportive team environment focused on collaboration and growth

Why You’ll Love It Here

  • Work alongside experienced engineers and project professionals who value communication and teamwork

  • Be part of projects that support utility and power infrastructure across multiple industries

  • Join a company that values precision, accountability, and practical problem solving

  • Gain exposure to electrical, structural, and civil drafting projects that expand your experience

  • Build a long-term career with a company focused on employee development and steady growth

Your New Role

  • Create and update detailed structural, civil, and electrical drawings for utility and power engineering projects in Salem, Oregon

  • Produce system layouts, structural drawings, and electrical schematics using industry-standard drafting software

  • Utilize AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and related design tools to develop accurate project documentation

  • Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and internal teams to support project timelines and deliverables

  • Review drawings to ensure compliance with project specifications and engineering standards

  • Maintain organized drafting records and assist with quality assurance reviews

  • Support ongoing improvements to drafting workflows and design processes

Hiring Expectations: Apply today, complete a quick phone screening, and get ready for an interview with our team to discuss your goals and experience.

  • Minimum of 2 years of drafting and design experience in utility, power engineering, or a related engineering environment

  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and SolidWorks

  • Knowledge of substations, transmission systems, relay protection systems, and structural drafting concepts

  • Strong attention to detail and effective problem-solving skills

  • Ability to manage tasks independently while collaborating with cross-functional teams

  • Associate’s degree in drafting, design, or a related field preferred

  • Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline is a plus

Western Utility Telecom Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. #orange

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