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Drafting Trainee Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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Drafting Trainee information

What is a drafting trainee?

Drafting trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to create technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering. They work under the supervision of experienced drafters or engineers, gaining hands-on experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software and understanding industry standards. Their responsibilities include preparing detailed drawings, making revisions, and assisting with project documentation. This role provides foundational skills that can lead to more advanced drafting or design positions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a drafting trainee?

To thrive as a Drafting Trainee, you need a solid understanding of technical drawing principles, spatial visualization, and basic mathematics, often supported by a relevant diploma or coursework in drafting or engineering. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks is typically necessary, along with knowledge of industry standards. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate and efficient production of technical drawings, support collaboration with engineering teams, and facilitate growth within the field.

What challenges do drafting trainees face when adjusting to industry-standard software and workflows?

Drafting Trainees often encounter challenges adapting to specialized CAD software and understanding complex project standards. It can take time to become efficient with tools like AutoCAD or Revit while also learning to interpret architectural or engineering drawings accurately. Additionally, trainees must quickly become comfortable working within established workflows and collaborating with senior drafters, engineers, or architects to ensure their work meets project requirements. Overcoming these challenges usually involves a mix of on-the-job training, mentorship, and proactive learning.

What is the difference between Drafting Trainee vs Draftsman?

AspectDrafting TraineeDraftsman
QualificationsBasic diploma or certificate in drafting or CAD softwareDiploma or degree in drafting, architecture, or engineering
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised tasks, learning phaseProfessional work environment, producing technical drawings
ExperienceEntry-level, on-the-job trainingPractical experience in drafting projects
Industry UsageUsed during training programs, internshipsFull-time role in engineering, architecture, construction

In summary, a Drafting Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and developing drafting skills under supervision, while a Draftsman is a more experienced professional responsible for creating detailed technical drawings independently.

How to become a drafting trainee with no experience?

To become a drafting trainee with no experience, focus on developing basic skills in technical drawing and CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Pursuing relevant education like a diploma or certificate in drafting or engineering drawing can improve your chances, and gaining familiarity with industry standards and tools is beneficial for entry-level positions.

How to start a career in drafting?

To start a career as a drafting trainee, obtain a relevant diploma or certification in drafting, architecture, or engineering, and develop proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD or Revit. Gaining practical experience through internships or entry-level positions helps build skills and understanding of industry standards, which are essential for advancement in drafting roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drafting jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Drafting jobs in Alabama are:

Infographic showing various Drafting Trainee job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution.

Financial Operations Specialist I - 003933

University of South Alabama

Mobile, AL

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


University Of South Alabama rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

503rd of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
Position Number 003933 Position Title Financial Operations Specialist I - 003933 Division College of Medicine Department 720100 - Biochemistry Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in a related field from an accredited institution as approved and accepted by the University of South Alabama and three years of progressively responsible clerical accounting experience; OR a bachelor's degree in accounting from an accredited institution as approved and accepted by the University of South Alabama and two years progressively responsible clerical accounting experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Preferred Qualifications
Related experience in an academic setting is highly preferred. Experience with Banner and Microsoft Office is preferred.
Job Description Summary
The University of South Alabama's Department of Biochemistry is seeking to hire a Financial Operations Specialist I. Interested candidates should apply to be considered.
Essential Functions
These are the job duties required of the position.
Essential Functions
  • Manages the financial and administrative operations of the Department of Biochemistry and provides administrative support to the department chair, faculty, staff and medical students.
  • Acts as central point-of-contact for inquiries to the Department.
  • Monitors departmental fund balances, reconciles expenses, and prepares quarterly financial reports to the Chair.
  • Assists the Chair with budgeting and financial planning for the Department.
  • Monitors departmental spending for proper adherence to University, State, Federal and Agency funding regulations.
  • Works with the College of Medicine Business Office (COMBO) and the Office of Grants and Contracts to verify that expenses associated with grants are within the scope of the funded research.
  • Monitors burn rates (the speed at which a grant, fellowship, or sponsored research project consumes its allocated budget) on awards and alerts faculty to any deficiencies.
  • Prepares and submits Banner requisitions for purchase order payments.
  • Processes payments to vendors using PCard and Concur Invoice.
  • Utilizes various software and systems to include MS Excel and Word, Banner and Banner Finance, and Concur.
  • Acts as a proxy in Concur for the reconciliation of faculty activity, expenses and travel.
  • Drafts correspondence for the Chair.
  • Sends reminders to Department of time submission deadlines.
  • Processes and submits documents for Departmental faculty, staff, and trainee hires, promotions, reappointments, resignations, etc.
  • Completes and routes Electronic Personnel Action Forms (EPAFs) for departmental faculty, staff and trainees.
  • Coordinates onboarding of new students, researchers, and staff in labs with lab/office keys, after-hour security door access, and general orientation.
  • Maintains departmental laboratory and office equipment inventory and submit biennial report to Property Office; prepares and submits property control forms.
  • Maintains the department website.
  • Sends out departmental announcements by email.
  • Coordinates travel, lodging, itinerary, announcements, reimbursements, and meeting venue for invited speakers.
  • Arranges travel for faculty, staff, postdoc and graduate students, as needed.
  • Serves as direct contact to new vendors, providing required documents to become a USA vendor.
  • Places lab orders using PCard or Purchase Orders; maintains accurate records; follows up on delayed orders; coordinates shipments.
  • Orders and maintains inventory of office supplies.
  • Submits quotes with terms and conditions and contracts for legal review.
  • Prepares and submits requested materials for the College of Medicine annual report.
  • Schedules departmental meetings, files and databases.
  • Maintains departmental calendar, and organizes and maintains calendar for the departmental Chair.
  • Serves as liaison between the department, College and University administrative offices.
  • Serves as Building Safety Coordinator for Biochemistry & Molecular Biology which includes monthly AED battery checks, attending safety meetings, and disseminating pertinent information to Departmental personnel.
  • Regular and prompt attendance.
  • Ability to work schedule as defined and overtime as required.
  • Related duties as required.
Posting Information
Number of Vacancies 1 Position End Date (if temporary) Job Open Date 09/01/2026 Job Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants Working Days Monday - Friday Working Hours 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Job Location Main Campus Full-time or Part-Time Full Time Regular or Temporary Regular

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