1

Drafter Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Computer aided drafting and design and modeling in Autodesk AutoCAD in the fields of civil engineering or architecture. * GPS surveying using Trimble survey-grade and mapping-grade equipment and post ...

Autocad Tutor

Albuquerque, NM ยท Remote

$25 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of AutoCAD 2D drafting, 3D modeling, dimensioning, layers, blocks, hatching, plotting, annotation, and file management. Ability to explain coordinate systems, object properties ...

Attorney

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Draft legal documents, including briefs, pleadings, and contracts. * Represent clients in court proceedings, hearings, and mediation sessions. * Provide legal counsel and guidance to clients.

Apply Early

Attorney - Entry Level

Albuquerque, NM ยท On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Draft legal documents, including briefs, pleadings, and contracts. * Represent clients in court proceedings, hearings, and mediation sessions. * Provide legal counsel and guidance to clients.

Apply Early

This includes, without limitation, drafting, reviewing, and tracking proposed state legislation that we support and oppose. They are the lead with internal subject matter experts developing the Firm ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Drafter information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$14

$25

$40

How much do drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafter in Rio Rancho, NM is $25.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $28.70 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.

Are drafters still in demand?

Drafters are still in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, especially those skilled in CAD software like AutoCAD and Revit. Employment opportunities depend on industry growth and regional construction or manufacturing activity, with steady demand expected for skilled technical drafters.

What is the job of a drafter?

A drafter creates technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering projects. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop detailed diagrams that communicate how structures or products should be built or assembled. Drafters must understand engineering principles and often work closely with architects, engineers, and project managers.

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.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters perform detailed technical drawing and design work that currently requires human judgment and creativity. While AI tools can assist with automating repetitive tasks and generating basic drafts, they are unlikely to fully replace skilled drafters in complex or customized projects in the near future. Proficiency in CAD software and understanding of engineering or architectural principles remain essential for the role.

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 wage for drafters is around $55,000, with some specialized roles or experienced professionals earning higher salaries. Skills in CAD software and certifications can influence earning potential.

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.

What are drafters?

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 popular job titles related to Drafter jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Drafter jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drafter jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Drafter jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Drafter jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Drafter job openings:
Infographic showing various Drafter job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,543 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Computer Aided Design and Drafting Technologist

Computer Aided Design and Drafting Technologist

J.G. Management Systems Inc

Albuquerque, NM โ€ข On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description

Application Deadline:


7/6/2026


Position Summary:


We are seeking a dedicated Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) Technologist to join our team of engineering and technologist staff to assist with the scoping/definition, creation, submission, and implementation of engineering design documents (CAD and CREO drawings) for custom mechanical components and internal/external cable harnesses.ย 


The selected applicant will work with engineers and technologists to develop clear, concise, and buildable drawings based on existing templates and processes.ย 


Job Duties and Responsibilities:


On any given day, you may be called on to: ย 

  • Help develop and redline drawings, templates, and standards to meet production agency needs and Prime release requirements ย ย 
  • Create new schematic drawings from scratch or make the necessary changes to existing drawings in CREO and/or AutoCAD ย 
  • Read/understand schematics, design prints and technical/repair manuals or documents or create entire new ones ย ย 
  • Work closely with the project manager, project engineers and other CADD technicians to receive instructions, guidance, and resolve design issues ย ย ย 

Requirements


Required Qualifications:

  • Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Aided Drafting, Automotive Technology,ย Electronics Technology, Mechanical Technology or similar degree or equivalent work experience. ย ย ย 
  • 2ย years' demonstrated experience using AutoCAD and/or CREO to create, modify, and coordinate engineering drawings. ย ย ย ย 
  • An active or recent (<1yr) DOE Q or DOD TS clearance ย ย ย ย 
  • Ability and confidence working in a classified environment and with classified components ย ย ย 
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team ย ย ย 
  • Ability to excel in a fast-paced dynamic environment ย 
  • Ability to model behaviors that reflect the company's core values ย ย ย 

Desired Qualifications:


Experience with some or all of: ย ย 

  • Board design and integrated electronics ย ย 
  • Cable design, drawings, or manufacturing ย ย 
  • Mechanical design for individual components ย ย 
  • Experience with projects that transition from design to production ย ย ย 
  • Working in a schedule, budget, or requirement constrained environment ย ย 
  • National Laboratories Prime release process ย 
  • Traditional NSE documents/processes such as AERs and PDDRs ย ย ย 

Security Clearance


The ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q security clearance or equivalent DoD Top Secret security clearance.ย 


Background Check and Screenings


A pre-employment drug screening and background review that includes checks of personal references, credit, law enforcement records, and employment/education verification is required.


Benefits


We take pride in promoting a healthy work-life balance, family-friendly benefits, servant leadership, team values and professional growth. Our competitive benefits package includes:

  • Medical insurance - 100% company paid premiums for employees
  • Dental and vision insuranceย 
  • 401k plan with company match
  • 24 hours of paid community service a year
  • Up to 4 weeks paid time off a year
  • 10 paid floating holidays
  • Life insurance, short- and long-term disability
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Professional development ย opportunities

JGMS Family of Companies


Ethically minded, mission-driven.


We provide applied technology, engineering, science, and management services to government and private sector clients nationwide. As a diverse team of professionals, we are focused on meeting the needs of our clients and following through with real solutions that effectively and efficiently meet all budgetary and scheduling requirements. As a member of the team, you will be involved in a growing, dynamic organization that is developing new client solutions to benefit our environment and economy.


Equal Opportunity Employer


JGMS Government Services LLC (JGMS-GS) is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity (EEO) in any term, condition, or privilege of employment. The Company prohibits unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age (40 and over), race, color, religion, national origin, disability, genetic information, sexual identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veteran status, marital status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all applicants, employees, including managers, supervisors, co-workers, and non-employees such as customers, clients, vendors, consultants, or any other entity in professional contact with the Company.


Due to the nature of the government contract requirements and/or clearance requirements, US citizenship may be required.

Interested candidates should submit an application through the JGMS Careers page by the application deadline listed in this posting. Applications may include a current resume and any other materials identified in the posting. Applicants may redact information from application materials that identifies age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.


If you are an individual with a disability and need assistance completing the online application, please call (970) 254-1354. Alternatively, an email may be sent to HR@jgmsgovservices.com with the subject line 'Applicant Accommodation' in the email.