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Drafter Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

CADD Technologist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

We are seeking a dedicated Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CAD) Technologist to join our diverse team of engineering and technologist staff to assist with the scoping/definition, creation ...

Huitt-Zollars, Inc

Civil CAD Designer

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

Associates Degree in CAD/Drafting Duties: * Design and plan production. * Prepare drawings for roadway and development projects, including site grading and drainage, roadway design, and plan ...

Spectra Tech, Inc.

CADD Technologist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

We are seeking a dedicated Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CAD) Technologist to join our diverse team of engineering and technologist staff to assist with the scoping/definition, creation ...

SPECTRA TECH INC

CADD Technologist

Albuquerque, NM

We are seeking a dedicated Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CAD) Technologist to join our diverse team of engineering and technologist staff to assist with the scoping/definition, creation ...

HUITT-ZOLLARS

Civil CAD Designer

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

Associates Degree in CAD/Drafting Duties: * Design and plan production. * Prepare drawings for roadway and development projects, including site grading and drainage, roadway design, and plan ...

Huitt-Zollars

Civil CAD Designer

Rio Rancho, NM · On-site

Associates Degree in CAD/Drafting Duties: * Design and plan production. * Prepare drawings for roadway and development projects, including site grading and drainage, roadway design, and plan ...

DR Horton

Division Counsel

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Review marketing contract and programs; draft documentation as necessary * Assist in managing division litigation, including coordination with outside counsel regarding active and potential ...

DR Horton, Inc.

Division Counsel

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Review marketing contract and programs; draft documentation as necessary * Assist in managing division litigation, including coordination with outside counsel regarding active and potential ...

D.R. Horton, Inc

Division Counsel

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Review marketing contract and programs; draft documentation as necessary * Assist in managing division litigation, including coordination with outside counsel regarding active and potential ...

TERRACON

Geotechnical Field Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Drafts routine proposals and assists in the preparation of more complex proposals. * Performs plan drafting using CAD software. * May work with engineering technician crews in testing, observations ...

TERRACON

Geotechnical Field Engineer

Albuquerque, NM

Drafts routine proposals and assists in the preparation of more complex proposals. * Performs plan drafting using CAD software. * May work with engineering technician crews in testing, observations ...

H5 Data Centers

Data Center Project Manager

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$125K - $130K/yr

Draft and optimize various Standard Operating Procedures for Data Center. * Responsible for facility service delivery to Colocation customers. * Accountable for infrastructure systems uptime.

Apply Early

University of New Mexico

Auditing Intern

Albuquerque, NM

$38K - $47K/yr

Contribute to drafting audit reports and related deliverables. Our department conducts a wide range of audits and investigations, offering an excellent opportunity to gain practical, on-the-job ...

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All JobsDrafter JobsDrafter Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

Drafter information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$14

$25

$40

How much do drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 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.
More about Drafter jobs
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Drafter jobs near you
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.
CADD Technologist

CADD Technologist

SPECTRA TECH, Inc.

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

WHAT YOUR JOB WILL BE LIKE:
We are seeking a dedicated Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CAD) Technologist to join our diverse 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. The selected applicant will work with engineers and technologists to develop clear, concise, and buildable drawings based on existing templates and processes. On any given day, you may be called on to:
• Help develop and redline Sandia drawings, templates, and standards to meet production agency needs and Prime release requirements
• Create new schematic drawings from scratch or make the necessary changes to existing drawings in CREO and/or AutoCAD
• Read/understand schematics, design prints and technical/repair manuals or documents or create entire new ones
• Work closely with the project manager, project engineers and other CADD technicians to receive instructions, guidance, and resolve design issues
Qualifications We Require:
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Computer Aided Drafting, Automotive Technology, Electronics Technology, Mechanical Technology or similar degree or equivalent work experience.
• 2 years' demonstrated experience using AutoCAD® and/or CREO to create, modify, and coordinate engineering drawings.
• An active or recent (<1yr) DOE Q or DOD TS clearance
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to model behaviors that reflect Sandia's core values
Qualifications we Desire:
• Experience with some or all of:
  • Board design and integrated electronics
  • Cable designs, drawings or manufacturing
  • Mechanical design for individual components
  • Experience with projects that transition from design to production
  • Working in a schedule, budget, or requirement constrained environment
  • Sandia National Laboratories Prime release process
  • Traditional NSE documents/processes such as AERs and PDDRs

Apply