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Drafting Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Support ERP, CAD automation, and digital workflow initiatives * Monitor drafting standards ... templates, dynamic blocks, and engineering documentation processes * Track and analyze departmental ...

Drafter - Substation

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$50K - $72K/yr

Associates degree in Drafting & Design or equivalent certification is preferred. * Experience in drafting disciplines with a background in substation design is highly preferred. * No experience ...

CAD Drafter

Teutopolis, IL ยท On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Description The CAD drafter uses computer aided manufacturing equipment to provide support to ... You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering ...

Description The CAD drafter uses computer aided manufacturing equipment to provide support to ... You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering ...

Description The CAD drafter uses computer aided manufacturing equipment to provide support to ... You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering ...

Description The CAD drafter uses computer aided manufacturing equipment to provide support to ... You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering ...

Description The CAD drafter uses computer aided manufacturing equipment to provide support to ... You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering ...

Description The CAD drafter uses computer aided manufacturing equipment to provide support to ... You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering ...

Description The CAD drafter uses computer aided manufacturing equipment to provide support to ... You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering ...

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Drafting Design information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$27

$42

How much do drafting design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafting design in Illinois is $27.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a drafting design degree?

A drafting design degree prepares individuals for careers as drafters or CAD technicians, creating technical drawings and plans for architecture, engineering, or manufacturing projects. Graduates can work in design firms, construction companies, or manufacturing industries, often using software like AutoCAD or Revit. Additional certifications and strong technical skills can enhance job prospects and advancement opportunities.

What are some common challenges drafting designers face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Drafting designers often collaborate with engineers, architects, and construction teams, which can present challenges such as integrating varying technical standards, managing version control across different software platforms, and ensuring clear communication of design intent. Navigating conflicting feedback and adapting designs to meet both functional and aesthetic requirements are also frequent hurdles. Proactive communication, attention to detail, and staying updated on industry-standard software can help mitigate these challenges and ensure successful project outcomes.

Are drafting designers still in demand?

Drafting designers, also known as CAD drafters, continue to be in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. They use CAD software like AutoCAD and Revit to create technical drawings, and employment prospects depend on industry growth and project needs.

What is drafting design?

Drafting design is the process of creating detailed technical drawings and plans used to build structures, machines, or products. Drafters use specialized software like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) to convert engineers' and architects' concepts into precise diagrams and blueprints. These drawings specify dimensions, materials, and procedures, serving as a guide throughout the manufacturing or construction process. Drafting design plays a vital role in fields such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drafting designer?

To thrive as a Drafting Designer, you need strong technical drawing skills, attention to detail, and typically an associate degree or certification in drafting or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is essential, along with familiarity with industry standards and building codes. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork help you collaborate effectively with engineers and architects. These skills ensure accurate, efficient project documentation and facilitate clear communication of design concepts, which are critical for successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Drafting Design vs CAD Technician?

AspectDrafting DesignCAD Technician
CredentialsDiploma or certificate in drafting or designDiploma or certification in CAD software
Work EnvironmentArchitectural, engineering, or construction firmsDesign firms, manufacturing, or engineering companies
Job FocusCreating detailed drawings and design plansConverting concepts into precise CAD models and drawings
Tools UsedManual drafting tools, CAD softwarePrimarily CAD software like AutoCAD, Revit

Drafting Design and CAD Technician roles often overlap but differ mainly in focus. Drafting Design emphasizes creating detailed drawings and plans, while CAD Technicians specialize in developing and refining digital models using CAD software. Both roles are essential in the design and construction industries, with similar credentials and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Drafting Design jobs in Illinois? For Drafting Design jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Drafting Design job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,416 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Director-Drafting & Design

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Chicago, IL โ€ข Remote

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Title: Director (Design & Drafting)

Location: Remote

Hire Type: Direct

Compensation: $170,000-$200,000

Must have Skill Set: Advanced knowledge of CAD platforms, CADD certification (or equivalent experience)


Overview: We are seeking a strategic Director (Design & Drafting) to lead our functional business unit, driving operational excellence, financial performance, client growth, and team development. This leadership role is responsible for executing company strategy, establishing CAD standards and production workflows, and leading a team of Discipline Managers to ensure high-quality project delivery. The ideal candidate will possess extensive technical drafting experience paired with strong business development and financial management capabilities to expand client relationships and business opportunities.


Job Duties:

  • Leads and develops Discipline Managers while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

  • Establishes performance expectations, workflows, CAD standards, templates, and operational standards across the functional area.

  • Aligns business objectives with company strategy and ensures consistent execution.

  • Identifies and resolves operational challenges while promoting best practices, process improvements, and production efficiency.

  • Grows existing client relationships and pursues new business opportunities.

  • Supports proposal development, project scoping, estimating, and staffing strategies.

  • Maintains high levels of client satisfaction through proactive communication and quality delivery.

  • Manages revenue forecasts, backlog, budgets, profitability, and resource planning.