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Drafting Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

The Senior Drafter / Designer will lead complex design e orts, develop complete drawing packages ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field

The Senior Drafter / Designer will lead complex design e orts, develop complete drawing packages ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field

The Senior Drafter / Designer will lead complex design e orts, develop complete drawing packages ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field

Designer / Drafter Pay: $75,000-$85,000 Job Type: Full-Time Location: Fredericksburg, VA Position ... design and drafting tasks Develop and maintain engineering drawings, assemblies, and bills of ...

... drafting equipment and software to develop designs Establish design standards, procedures and techniques to produce high reliability products (such as Design for Manufacturability and Design for ...

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Remodeling Designer/Drafter

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Rust Construction is seeking a Remodeling Designer/Drafte r with strong design, drafting, and rendering skills. This role focuses primarily on residential remodeling design and drafting rather than ...

Designer

Petersburg, VA ยท On-site

Prepare shop tickets for various precast structures using computer-assisted drafting software and ... Prepare erection drawings for basic structures under the supervision of the Chief Designer or ...

Designer

Petersburg, VA ยท On-site

Prepare shop tickets for various precast structures using computer-assisted drafting software and ... Prepare erection drawings for basic structures under the supervision of the Chief Designer or ...

Designer / CAD Specialist - Underground Utility Distribution This role supports a long-term ... Review the scope of work for each project and draft the necessary easements along proposed cable ...

Designer / CAD Specialist - Underground Utility Distribution This role supports a long-term ... Review the scope of work for each project and draft the necessary easements along proposed cable ...

Project Drafter

Winchester, VA ยท On-site

$22 - $35/hr

Coordinate drafting work with engineers and architects * Revise computer-aided designs and plans to comply with modified specifications made during actual construction * Provide technical guidance ...

Electrical Designer

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

A Certificate in a field of study related to drafting and design; or * A four-year undergraduate ... Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) certification Preferred Experience

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Drafting Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$27

$43

How much do drafting designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafting designer in Virginia is $27.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.68 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI in the near future, as their role involves complex interpretation of design intent, customization, and problem-solving that AI tools currently cannot fully replicate. However, AI can assist with automating repetitive tasks and improving efficiency, allowing drafters to focus on more creative and technical aspects of their work. Proficiency in CAD software and understanding of engineering principles remain essential for drafting designers.

What are typical daily tasks and collaboration opportunities for a Drafting Designer?

As a Drafting Designer, your daily tasks often include creating and revising technical drawings and blueprints, interpreting design specifications, and ensuring drawings meet industry standards. You will frequently collaborate with engineers, architects, and other project stakeholders to clarify design requirements, resolve technical issues, and review project progress. Team meetings and feedback sessions are common, giving you regular opportunities to communicate your design choices and integrate input from others. This collaborative environment not only enhances design quality but also supports your professional development and growth within multidisciplinary teams.

What is a Drafting Designer job?

A Drafting Designer creates technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering projects. They use specialized software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks to develop detailed blueprints based on specifications from engineers or architects. Their role ensures that designs meet industry standards, functional requirements, and material constraints. Drafting Designers may work in various industries, including architecture, mechanical design, and civil engineering. Attention to detail, precision, and strong technical skills are essential for success in this position.

What does a drafting designer do?

A drafting designer creates detailed technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects. They use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software to develop accurate representations of structures, products, or systems, ensuring compliance with specifications and standards. The role often requires knowledge of engineering principles, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret technical data.

What is the highest paying drafting job?

The highest paying drafting jobs are often senior roles such as senior CAD designer, engineering drafter, or architectural designer, especially those with specialized skills in 3D modeling, BIM software, or project management. These positions typically require extensive experience, certifications, and advanced technical knowledge, and they can offer salaries significantly higher than entry-level drafting roles.

How to become a drafter designer?

To become a drafting designer, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent and post-secondary education such as an associate's degree in drafting, engineering, or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software like AutoCAD or Revit, along with strong technical skills and attention to detail, is essential; some roles may also require certification or experience in specific industries like architecture or engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Drafting Designer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drafting Designer, you need proficiency in technical drawing, a strong understanding of engineering or architectural principles, and typically an associate degree or certification in drafting. Expertise in computer-aided design (CAD) software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is essential, and certifications in these tools are highly valued. Attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are important soft skills for collaborating with engineers, architects, and project managers. These competencies ensure that complex design concepts are accurately translated into detailed technical drawings, facilitating seamless project execution.

What are popular job titles related to Drafting Designer jobs in Virginia? For Drafting Designer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drafting Designer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Drafting Designer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Drafting Designer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Drafting Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Drafting Designer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,720 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Senior Drafter / Designer

Senior Drafter / Designer

Riggins

Hampton, VA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Position Overview
This is a high-responsibility role requiring strong independent performance. The Senior Drafter / Designer will lead complex design e orts, develop complete drawing packages, perform advanced 3D modeling, and ensure designs are fabrication-ready and compliant with industry standards.
This position requires expert-level AutoCAD 2D and 3D capability.
Key Responsibilities
  • Develop complex 2D and 3D models using AutoCAD (REQUIRED)
  • Produce complete, fabrication-ready drawing packages
  • Perform advanced structural layout and design development
  • Review and check drawings for accuracy and compliance
  • Develop CNC-ready cut files
  • Develop material forming details
  • Collaborate directly with designers, engineers, project managers, and clients
  • Provide technical guidance to junior drafters
  • Ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards

Required Qualifications
  • 10+ years of drafting/design experience in heavy industrial, shipyard, or manufacturing environments
  • Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD (2D and 3D modeling REQUIRED)
  • Strong understanding of heavy structural steel and welded design
  • Experience producing fabrication-ready drawing packages independently
  • Experience in lofting and developing CNC cutting files
  • Deep understanding of materials and manufacturing processes
  • Strong knowledge of GD&T
  • Proven reliability, strong work ethic, and consistent productivity
  • Ability to manage multiple projects with minimal supervision

Preferred Qualifications
  • Proficiency in Autodesk Inventor (preferred)
  • Experience with CVN or submarine structural drafting
  • Experience with ASME Code pressure vessels or heat exchangers
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field