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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's or Bachelor's degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field

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 ...

CAD/Revit Drafter - Level II

Arlington, VA · On-site

$42.50 - $52/hr

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. 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 ...

Customer Service Coordinator

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Order management process flow throughout the front-end and manufacturing process (estimating, drafting, engineering, order entry, and takeoff) by partnering with individuals from the various areas ...

Project Manager (Customer Service)

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$76K - $97K/yr

Order management process flow throughout the front-end and manufacturing process (estimating, drafting, engineering, order entry, and takeoff) by partnering with individuals from the various areas ...

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 ...

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 ...

Experience with planning hardware for a new site installation or recap effort of existing equipment, planning projects, drafting network diagrams, drafting engineering configurations. * Experience ...

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Drafting Engineering information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$24

$36

How much do drafting engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 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.

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, customization, and understanding of project requirements that AI tools currently cannot fully replicate. AI can assist with automating repetitive tasks and improving efficiency, but human oversight and expertise remain essential in drafting engineering. Skills in CAD software, attention to detail, and understanding engineering principles are still critical for the profession.

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 highest paying drafting job?

Senior drafting engineers, especially those specializing in civil, mechanical, or electrical design, tend to have the highest salaries in drafting careers. Advanced skills, certifications, and experience with CAD software like AutoCAD or Revit can lead to higher-paying roles, often in managerial or specialized technical positions.

What does a drafting engineer do?

A drafting engineer creates detailed technical drawings and plans for construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects using CAD software. They interpret design specifications, ensure accuracy, and collaborate with engineers and architects to produce precise schematics. Proficiency in CAD tools and understanding of engineering principles are essential for this role.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineering professionals such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain senior software or systems engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or specialized technical expertise.
What are popular job titles related to Drafting Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Drafting Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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:
Infographic showing various Drafting Engineering job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,895 per year, or $24.9 per hour.
Draftsman/Documentation Specialist II

Draftsman/Documentation Specialist II

Saalex

On-site

$50K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 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