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Drafting Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Drafting & Order Engineering Manager

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Position Summary The Drafting & Order Engineering Manager oversees the daily operations of the drafting and order engineering department, ensuring the accurate and timely completion of fabrication ...

DMC Engineering

Electrical Drafter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Ability to effectively apply all drafting standards, practices, and procedures * Must be detail oriented * Self-motivated with a high level of commitment; able to work independently and as a team ...

DMC Engineering

Electrical Drafter

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$55K - $70K/yr

Ability to effectively apply all drafting standards, practices, and procedures * Must be detail oriented * Self-motivated with a high level of commitment; able to work independently and as a team ...

Quanta Services

Drafter - Substation

Chicago, IL

$50K - $72K/yr

Associates degree in Drafting & Design or equivalent certification is preferred. * Experience in drafting disciplines with a background in substation design is highly preferred. * No experience ...

Stevens Industries

CAD Drafter

Jewett, IL

$20 - $23/hr

You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering terminology and various drawing programs. Associate degree or technical training certification preferred ...

Stevens Industries Inc

CAD Drafter

Teutopolis, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering terminology and various drawing programs. Associate degree or technical training certification preferred ...

Stevens Industries

CAD Drafter

Mattoon, IL

$20 - $23/hr

You must have a solid understanding of drafting techniques and familiarity with engineering terminology and various drawing programs. Associate degree or technical training certification preferred ...

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Drafting information

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$14

$23

$36

How much do drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafting in Illinois is $23.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.65 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Drafting vs CAD Technician?

AspectDraftingCAD Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentArchitectural, engineering, or manufacturing offices; on-siteDesign studios, engineering firms, manufacturing companies; computer-based work
Industry UsageUsed across architecture, engineering, manufacturingPrimarily in engineering, architecture, and product design
Work FocusCreating technical drawings manually or with basic softwareDeveloping detailed 3D models and drawings using CAD software

While both Drafting and CAD Technicians create technical drawings, Drafting typically involves manual or basic digital drawing skills, whereas CAD Technicians focus on advanced 3D modeling and detailed digital designs using specialized software. The roles often overlap, but CAD Technicians usually require more technical training in CAD tools.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can earn $3,000 a day include specialized roles such as experienced surgeons, corporate lawyers, investment bankers, and certain high-level consultants. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve high-pressure environments or significant responsibilities.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters perform detailed technical drawings and designs that require human judgment and expertise. While AI and automation tools can assist with repetitive tasks and improve efficiency, they are unlikely to fully replace skilled CAD drafters in the near future, as complex design work still relies on human creativity and understanding of project requirements.

Do drafters make a lot of money?

Drafting is a skilled profession that typically offers a moderate to good salary, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level drafters usually earn less, while experienced professionals with certifications and advanced skills can earn higher wages, especially in specialized fields like civil or mechanical drafting.

Is drafting still a good career?

Drafting remains a viable career as it is essential in fields like architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. Skilled drafters who are proficient with CAD software and have relevant certifications are in demand for designing and creating technical drawings. The profession offers stable employment opportunities, especially with experience and specialization.

What are some typical challenges drafters face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Drafters often collaborate with architects, engineers, and construction professionals, which can present challenges such as coordinating design changes, managing conflicting feedback, and adhering to tight deadlines. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial, as errors can lead to costly revisions. Staying up-to-date with the latest CAD software and industry standards also helps drafters integrate seamlessly with diverse teams and deliver accurate technical drawings.

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

To thrive as a Drafter, you need strong technical drawing skills, attention to detail, and a background in drafting or engineering technology, often supported by an associate degree or certification. Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SolidWorks is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with architects and engineers help drafters excel. These skills ensure accurate technical plans, effective teamwork, and the successful translation of concepts into precise construction or manufacturing documents.

What is drafting?

Drafting is the process of creating detailed technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, architecture, and engineering. Drafters use specialized software or manual techniques to produce precise representations of structures, machinery, or systems. These drawings serve as blueprints for builders, engineers, and manufacturers, ensuring projects are constructed accurately and safely. Drafting is essential for communicating complex design ideas and specifications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Drafting jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Drafting jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Drafting jobs in Illinois? For Drafting jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drafting jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Drafting jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Drafting jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Drafting job openings:
Drafting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drafting job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,331 per year, or $23.7 per hour.

Director-Drafting & Design

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Chicago, IL • Remote

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Title: Director (Design & Drafting)

Location: Remote

Hire Type: Direct

Compensation: $170,000-$200,000

Must have Skill Set: Advanced knowledge of CAD platforms, CADD certification (or equivalent experience)


Overview: We are seeking a strategic Director (Design & Drafting) to lead our functional business unit, driving operational excellence, financial performance, client growth, and team development. This leadership role is responsible for executing company strategy, establishing CAD standards and production workflows, and leading a team of Discipline Managers to ensure high-quality project delivery. The ideal candidate will possess extensive technical drafting experience paired with strong business development and financial management capabilities to expand client relationships and business opportunities.


Job Duties:

  • Leads and develops Discipline Managers while fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

  • Establishes performance expectations, workflows, CAD standards, templates, and operational standards across the functional area.

  • Aligns business objectives with company strategy and ensures consistent execution.

  • Identifies and resolves operational challenges while promoting best practices, process improvements, and production efficiency.

  • Grows existing client relationships and pursues new business opportunities.

  • Supports proposal development, project scoping, estimating, and staffing strategies.

  • Maintains high levels of client satisfaction through proactive communication and quality delivery.

  • Manages revenue forecasts, backlog, budgets, profitability, and resource planning.