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Drafting Trainee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Vocational certificate in CAD design/drafting issued from accredited school or currently enrolled. Effective in verbal and written communication. Construction knowledge - concrete related experience ...

Preferences: • Vocational certificate in CAD design/drafting issued from accredited school or currently enrolled. • Effective in verbal and written communication. • Construction knowledge ...

Underwriting Trainee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Draft POSITION SUMMARY The Underwriter Trainee ("Trainee") participates in the commercial underwriting trainee program of IFG Companies ("Companies"), building foundational skills in technical ...

New

... trainees, and staff; and ensuring the efficient functioning of the Chair's office and broader ... Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to draft, proofread, and edit ...

Drafting Trainee information

See Illinois salary details

$17

$30

$62

How much do drafting trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafting trainee in Illinois is $30.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $33.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How do you train to be a drafting trainee?

Training to be a drafting trainee typically involves completing a relevant diploma or degree in drafting, engineering, or architecture, followed by on-the-job training where trainees learn to use CAD software and drafting standards under supervision. Developing technical skills, attention to detail, and understanding of construction or manufacturing processes are essential components of the training process.

How to start a career in drafting trainee?

To start a career as a drafting trainee, obtain a relevant diploma or degree in drafting, engineering, or architecture, and develop proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD or Revit. Gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships and building a strong understanding of technical drawings and industry standards are essential steps.

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

The most popular types of Drafting jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Drafting Trainee jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Drafting Trainee job openings:

Infographic showing various Drafting Trainee job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,020 per year, or $30.3 per hour.

Detailer/ AutoCAD Drafter Trainee

Nucor

Belvidere, IL • On-site

$21.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Nucor rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 538 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job Details

Division: Nucor Rebar Fabrication Midwest

Location: Belvidere, IL, United States  

Other Available Locations: N/A

Welcome to Nucor, where our unique culture sets us apart. Joining Nucor means becoming part of North America's largest steel and steel products manufacturer, offering unmatched career opportunities and stability. We are known for our innovative sustainability practices and are the continent's largest recycler. Our vibrant culture, built on personal connections and teamwork, empowers every team member with the freedom to innovate and contribute to our collective success. Experience a workplace where safety, efficiency, and meaningful personal connections define every day, enriching both our teammates and the communities we serve.

Nucor supports its teammates with top-tier benefits like Medical, Dental, Vision, and Disability Insurance, 401K and Roth accounts, Profit sharing, Pay-for-performance bonuses, Paid parental leave, Tuition reimbursement, Stock program, Scholarships and more.

Benefits:

Best Benefits in the Business!

  • Paid Weekly with Bonus and Profit Sharing 
  • Clearly defined career pathways with unlimited growth opportunities  
  • Paid Training
  • Paid Vacation - 3 weeks after 1 year
  • Paid Holidays - 10 per year and 1 personal day
  • Parental Leave
  • Tuition Reimbursement - $5,250 year for teammates, $2625 for spouses
  • Scholarship Program - Every child of a Nucor teammate is eligible for $4000 per year
  • Low-cost medical, dental, vision after 30 days
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance
  • Company matching 401(k) plan
  • Employee stock purchase plan - we match 10% of your purchase

Go to www.Nucor.com/benefits to learn more!  

Purpose:

Compensation: $21.33/hr plus yearly ROA bonus and yearly Profit Sharing bonus. 

Detail simple projects with supervision and provide concise, accurate and complete descriptions of all rebar, mesh wire, and related concrete reinforcing products for fabrication, delivery, installation, and invoicing in the most efficient manner possible. Cultivate a customer service relationship while maximizing profits for Nucor Rebar Fabrication.

Compensation: $21.33/hr plus yearly ROA bonus and yearly Profit Sharing bonus. 

Detail simple projects with supervision and provide concise, accurate and complete descriptions of all rebar, mesh wire, and related concrete reinforcing products for fabrication, delivery, installation, and invoicing in the most efficient manner possible. Cultivate a customer service relationship while maximizing profits for Nucor Rebar Fabrication.

Basic Job Functions:

Create shop drawing and manage projects specific to detailing.
Develop basic knowledge of rebar & concrete reinforcing products. 
Review and verify drawings, dates, specifications, addenda, and other contractual information.
Represent Nucor Rebar Fabrication & liaise between contractor, engineer, placer, and detailer.
Pre-plan all projects for critical path, scope, and schedules.
Review all changes and provide information for change orders.
Be involved with construction conflicts/disputes and provide timely, cost-effective resolutions.
Perform other duties as required by your supervisor.

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

Preferences:

    Vocational certificate in CAD design/drafting issued from accredited school or currently enrolled.
    Effective in verbal and written communication.
    Construction knowledge - concrete related experience particularly helpful.

Nucor is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug-free workplace


What Nucor employees say

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About Nucor

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Nucor Corporation is an American producer of steel and related products based in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is the largest steel producer in the United States, the largest "mini-mill" steelmaker (i.e. it uses electric arc furnaces to melt scrap steel as opposed to blast furnaces to melt iron), and the biggest recycler of scrap in North America. As of 2021, Nucor was the 15th-largest steel producer in the world.

Industry

Primary metal manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1905

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