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Drafter Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

John W Danforth Company

VDC Piping Manager

Victor, NY · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Come join John W. Danforth Company , one of the largest mechanical contractors in the Northeast! We believe our greatest asset is our people, and we are committed to hiring team members who are ...

Varsity Tutors

Autocad Tutor

Rochester, NY · Remote

$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 ...

Labellapc

Civil Designer - Renewable Energy

Rochester, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Produce drawings using computer aided drafting systems AutoCad, Civil 3D and Revit. Evaluate, analyze, interpret, select, and apply standard techniques, procedures, and criteria for renewable ...

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All JobsDrafter JobsDrafter Jobs in Rochester, NY

Drafter information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$14

$26

$42

How much do drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafter in Rochester, NY is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $30.14 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.
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Drafter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drafter job openings in Rochester, NY as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,117 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Timber Frame Drafter

Farmington, NY • On-site

New Energy Works of Rochester Inc
See more jobs at New Energy Works of Rochester Incexternal

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Create comprehensive 3D models of timber structures using hsbCAD and AutoCAD Architecture.

  • Generate detailed 2D shop drawings and integrate structural steel and hardware details for fabrication.

  • Collaborate with shop and field teams to review joinery details, update models based on measurements or revisions, and ensure models are ready for fabrication and assembly.

Job description

Overview – 

The Timber Frame Draftsman is responsible for the technical detailing and precision 3D modeling of timber structures. This role focuses on translating architectural designs into machine ready fabrication packages, ensuring that every joint and connection is structurally sound and ready for production.

The Drafter works closely with the shop craftspeople and the design team to bring projects from conceptual sketches to the shop floor. This position requires a high level of proficiency in CAD software and an understanding of traditional and modern joinery.


Core Competencies – 

3D Modeling & Shop Drawings:

  • Create comprehensive 3D project models using hsbCAD and AutoCAD Architecture.
  • Generate detailed 2D drawing packages following New Energy Works design standards for use with clients and the shop. 
  • Integrate structural steel and hardware detailing into the timber model and create shop drawings for vendor fabrication. 
  • Utilize 3D laser scan data to ensure models accurately reflect existing site conditions.
  • Maintain organized technical files and drawing revisions.


Fabrication & CNC Coordination:

  • Export and process machine files in K2 CAM software.
  • Collaborate with shop Project Champions to review joinery details and ensure efficient fabrication and assembly.
  • Inspect custom steel components upon delivery to ensure they match the model specifications and fabrication requirements.

 

Field & Shop Support:

  • Assist the shop and field teams by providing technical clarification on joinery or assembly sequences.
  • Update 3D models and drawings based on field measurements or design revisions.

 

Software and Skills:

  • Strong proficiency in 3D modeling and 2D drafting using hsbCAD/AutoCAD Architecture.
  • Clear technical communication skills for collaborating with shop leads and project managers.
  • High attention to detail and precision.
  • K2 CAM Software
  • Excel
  • Outlook


Other duties and responsibilities as assigned. 


About us:

This position is full-year, full-time plus with flexible schedule, great benefits including 70% company-paid medical, paid holidays and PTO, a matching 401k plan, dental, and vision. We are a 100% Employee-Owned (ESOP) company and when appropriate, we enjoy company-wide profit-sharing.

We actively seek to build an inclusive and diverse workplace where people from all walks of life are welcomed. We are an equal opportunity employer.

New Energy Works operates on the triple bottom line philosophy putting equal emphasis on people, planet, and profit. We’ve been designing and crafting custom homes and fine woodworking across the nation for 30+ years with our 140+ craftspeople, carpenters, designers, dreamers, and community members.

If you think you’re a good fit, please apply today.

Role is generally M-F 7am - 4pm and can vary as business needs shift.