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Drafting Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$50K - $90K/yr

Develop, update, and maintain technical drawings, network diagrams, system schematics, and engineering documentation using approved drafting tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Visio). * Translate engineering ...

Associate degree or technical diploma in drafting, engineering technology, or a related field (preferred). *BIM - Building Information Modeling (BIM) applies across U.S. federal government agencies ...

Associate degree or technical diploma in drafting, engineering technology, or a related field (preferred). * BIM - Building Information Modeling (BIM) applies across U.S. federal government agencies ...

Drafting Engineering Reports, Quality Manuals, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Conducting engineering investigations/evaluations, calculations, and preparing final designs of measurement ...

CAD Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

M&J is seeking a CAD Operator to provide drafting, design, and technical drawing support for WMATA's engineering and construction projects under the task order. Responsibilities * Create and update ...

CAD Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

M&J is seeking a CAD Operator to provide drafting, design, and technical drawing support for WMATA's engineering and construction projects under the task order. * Create and update detailed 2D and 3D ...

CAD Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

M&J is seeking a CAD Operator to provide drafting, design, and technical drawing support for WMATA's engineering and construction projects under the task order. Responsibilities * Create and update ...

Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Execute detailed engineering drawings and layouts in accordance with established drafting standards and engineering best practices. Required Education, Skills, and Experience * U.S. Citizenship is ...

Execute detailed engineering drawings and layouts in accordance with established drafting standards and engineering best practices. Required Education, Skills, and Experience * U.S. Citizenship is ...

Associate Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Execute detailed layout and design drawings in accordance with established engineering drafting standards and practices. Required Education, Skills, and Experience * Active TS/SCI clearance, or an ...

Execute detailed layout and design drawings in accordance with established engineering drafting standards and practices. Required Education, Skills, and Experience * Active TS/SCI clearance, or an ...

Ensure all engineering deliverables meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive successful project execution. * Manage the design and drafting ...

Ensure all engineering deliverables meet quality, safety, and regulatory standards. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive successful project execution. * Manage the design and drafting ...

Metrology Engineer

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$42 - $66/hr

... Drafting Engineering Reports, Quality Manuals, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). • Conducting engineering investigations/evaluations, calculations, and preparing final designs of ...

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 ...

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Drafting Engineering information

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How much do drafting engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafting engineering in Virginia is $24.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.20 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by drafting engineers when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Drafting engineers often work closely with architects, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers, which can present communication and coordination challenges. Interpreting and integrating feedback from various disciplines requires strong attention to detail and flexibility, as design changes may impact multiple aspects of a project. Staying updated with the latest CAD software and industry standards is also important to ensure seamless collaboration. Proactively seeking clarification and maintaining clear documentation can help address these challenges and contribute to successful project outcomes.

Are drafters still in demand?

Drafting engineering remains a steady profession with consistent demand in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and architecture. Drafters who are proficient in CAD software and have technical skills are likely to find job opportunities, especially as infrastructure projects and building designs continue to grow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Drafting Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Drafting Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, technical drawing, and CAD software, usually supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and other computer-aided design systems is essential for producing precise technical drawings. Attention to detail, strong communication, and problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills that set outstanding Drafting Engineers apart. These competencies ensure the accurate translation of engineering concepts into detailed plans, facilitating efficient project development and minimizing costly errors.

What is the difference between Drafting Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectDrafting EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Drafting, CAD certificationsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD labsConstruction sites, design offices, fieldwork
Industry UsageArchitectural, mechanical, electrical design firmsConstruction, infrastructure, urban planning
Job FocusCreating detailed technical drawings and plansDesigning, analyzing, and overseeing civil projects

Drafting Engineering primarily involves creating detailed technical drawings using CAD software, focusing on precision and technical specifications. Civil Engineering encompasses designing and managing infrastructure projects, requiring broader engineering knowledge and project oversight. While both roles collaborate closely, Drafting Engineers focus on the visual and technical documentation, whereas Civil Engineers handle the conceptual and structural aspects of projects.

What is drafting engineering?

Drafting engineering involves creating detailed technical drawings and plans used to build or manufacture products, structures, or systems. Drafting engineers use computer-aided design (CAD) software to translate ideas, sketches, and specifications from engineers and architects into precise blueprints. These drawings communicate essential information such as dimensions, materials, and procedures to ensure accurate construction or production. Drafting engineers play a crucial role in industries like architecture, manufacturing, and civil engineering by bridging the gap between design concepts and finished products.
What job categories do people searching Drafting Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Drafting Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
Draftsman/Documentation Specialist II

Draftsman/Documentation Specialist II

Saalex

$50K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Saalex Corporation is seeking a Draftsman/Documentation Specialist II in Tidewater, VA and San Diego, CA. Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and Information Technology Services company with a focus on Test Range Operations and Management, Engineering and Logistics Services, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Services and Information Technology Services. Founded in 1999 by Travis Mack, Saalex Solutions is a Service Disabled Veteran-Owned and Operated business with prime and subcontract expertise serving the Navy, Army, Air Force, NASA, corporate clients, and local governments. Saalex offers competitive compensation, career development, flexible work schedules and excellent benefits.

Position Type: Contingent on Contract Award.

Salary: $50k-$90k (depending on experience).

The Draftsman / Documentation Specialist II supports the Navy by developing, maintaining, and managing technical drawings, system diagrams, and controlled documentation in support of IT, network, and engineering environments. This role ensures accuracy, standardization, and configuration control of technical documentation across distributed LVC systems. 

Essential Functions:

  • Develop, update, and maintain technical drawings, network diagrams, system schematics, and engineering documentation using approved drafting tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Visio). 
  • Translate engineering, network, and system requirements into accurate technical diagrams and documentation. 
  • Maintain document and drawing configuration control, versioning, and baseline management in accordance with program and DoD standards. 
  • Support Configuration Control Boards (CCBs) and change management processes by updating documentation to reflect approved changes. 
  • Ensure documentation complies with DoD, Navy, and program standards, including formatting, security marking, and distribution controls. 
  • Collaborate with engineers, cybersecurity personnel, and program staff to validate and update technical content. 
  • Support audits, inspections, and accreditation activities by maintaining accurate and current documentation. 
  • Manage document repositories (e.g., SharePoint, CMDBs) and ensure proper access control and organization. 

Requirements

Required:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, Technical Writing, or related field (or equivalent experience). 
  • Experience creating technical drawings, diagrams, and controlled documentation. 
  • Proficiency with drafting and documentation tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Microsoft Visio, Adobe Acrobat, MS Office Suite). 
  • Familiarity with configuration management and document control processes. 
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain high documentation accuracy. 
  • Ability to manage multiple documentation efforts and deadlines. 
  • Strong communication and coordination skills with technical teams. 

Desired:

  • Experience supporting DoD or Navy programs and technical environments. 
  • Familiarity with EIA-649 configuration management standards or ITIL processes. 
  • Experience supporting network, system, or cybersecurity documentation efforts. 
  • Active Secret, Top Secret, or SCI clearance preferred. 

Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, Technical Writing, or related field (or equivalent experience). 

Security Clearance:

Must be eligible to obtain a Secret, Top Secret, or TS/SCI clearance. Active clearances preferred. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc.

Benefits

  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Wellness Resources
  • Stock Option Plan