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Drafter Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

CAD Drafter

Arlington, VA

$26 - $34.75/hr

CAD Drafter About the Organization Now is a great time to join Redhorse Corporation. Redhorse specializes in developing and implementing creative strategies and solutions with private, state, and ...

Configuration Management Drafter

Sterling, VA ยท On-site

$75K - $158K/yr

Configuration Management Drafter Job Category: Information Technology Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: TS/SCI with Polygraph Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel ...

New

Telecommunications Design Drafter

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$25 - $32/hr

The Telecommunications Design Drafter will develop and maintain technical drawings using AutoCAD and Microsoft Visio, document existing telecommunications infrastructure, translate field-collected ...

Telecommunications Design Drafter

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$25 - $32/hr

The Telecommunications Design Drafter will develop and maintain technical drawings using AutoCAD and Microsoft Visio, document existing telecommunications infrastructure, translate field-collected ...

Telecommunications Design Drafter

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$25 - $32/hr

The Telecommunications Design Drafter will develop and maintain technical drawings using AutoCAD and Microsoft Visio, document existing telecommunications infrastructure, translate field-collected ...

Job Title CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II (Hourly - $42.50 to $52.00) Position Title : CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II Reports To : BIM Manager Location : On-Site (Client ...

Job Title CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II (Hourly - $42.50 to $52.00) Position Title : CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II Reports To : BIM Manager Location : On-Site (Client ...

CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II (Hourly - $42.50 to $52.00) Position Title: CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II Reports To: BIM Manager Location: On-Site (Client Facility, National Capital Region) Security ...

CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$42.50 - $52/hr

CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II (Hourly - $42.50 to $52.00) Position Title : CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II Reports To : BIM Manager Location : On-Site (Client Facility, National Capital Region) Security ...

The Drafter/Submittal Engineer will provide support of multiple projects and tasks as directed by the Engineering Manager and team. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Record and track the ...

The Drafter/Submittal Engineer will provide support of multiple projects and tasks as directed by the Engineering Manager and team. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Record and track the ...

Be our next Traffic Control Designer/Drafter! Your work environment at EXP In this role you will be a part of the Infrastructure and Transportation team and have the opportunity to work on a broad ...

Be our next Traffic Control Designer/Drafter! Your work environment at EXP In this role you will be a part of the Infrastructure and Transportation team and have the opportunity to work on a broad ...

We are seeking a detail-oriented Technical Draftsman to support engineering and technical teams by preparing, revising, and maintaining accurate technical drawings, schematics, layouts, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drafter information

See Reston, VA salary details

$15

$27

$45

How much do drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafter in Reston, VA is $27.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.02 and $31.78 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 cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Drafter jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Drafter job openings:

Infographic showing various Drafter job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,116 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Remodeling Designer/Drafter

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description





Rust Construction

Remodeling Designer/Drafter


Location: Alexandria, VA


Create Buildable Residential Remodeling Designs 

Rust Construction is a design-build remodeling company based in Alexandria, VA, serving homeowners throughout Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. The company specializes in residential remodeling, including kitchens, bathrooms, additions, whole-home renovations, outdoor living spaces, and historic home projects.


Rust Construction is seeking a Remodeling Designer/Drafter with strong design, drafting, and rendering skills. This role focuses primarily on residential remodeling design and drafting rather than interior decorating. The right candidate will be able to create thoughtful, attractive, and buildable designs for residential remodeling projects, with a strong focus on kitchens, bathrooms, additions, and larger home renovations.


Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with sales to conduct client meetings to understand design preferences and functional requirements
  • Create design drawings, plans, renderings, and presentation materials
  • Manage client expectations regarding timelines, budgets, and design possibilities 
  • Support kitchen and bathroom design within larger remodeling projects
  • Manage finish selections.
  • Use drafting and design software such as Chief Architect, Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar tools
  • Produce clear, accurate drawings that support estimating, client presentations, and construction
  • Collaborate with project managers, production team members, clients, vendors, and trade partners
  • Help ensure designs are attractive, functional, buildable, and aligned with project budgets

Qualifications

  • Residential remodeling, interior design, architecture, or drafting experience
  • Strong drafting and rendering skills
  • Experience with Chief Architect, Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar design software
  • Kitchen and bath design experience
  • Strong understanding of space planning and construction documentation
  • Ability to produce buildable design drawings
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and attention to detail
  • Experience with design-build remodeling, additions, whole-home remodels, or historic renovation projects is helpful

Pay and Benefits

  • Full-Time, W-2 Employment
  • Pay: $70,000 - $80,000 annually, based on experience. 
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Hands-on involvement in residential remodeling projects
  • Collaboration with an experienced design-build team
  • Opportunity to work on projects from concept through construction
  • Schedule: Monday-Friday. Hybrid flexibility may be available depending on project needs. 

Why Rust Construction

Rust Construction is a great fit for a designer who wants to create work that is both beautiful and practical. You will be part of a team that values craftsmanship, thoughtful planning, and buildable design. The company works on meaningful residential projects throughout Alexandria, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the client experience and see your designs come to life in real homes.


Rust Construction encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.