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Drafting Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Bristol Bay Native Corporation

AutoCAD/Drafter

Arlington, VA · On-site

$25.25 - $32.50/hr

GC&E Federal is seeking an AutoCad/Drafter. The candidate for this position will work within our team to support our government Outside Plant program with our Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall client.

A Head for Profits

Draft Beer Service Tech

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$22/hr

Draft Service Technician (DST) Position Description and Performance Requirements The position of Draft Service Technician ( DST) is a position whose role is to service draft beer equipment.

Apply Early

Leidos

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 ...

Leidos

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 ...

USAM DC, LLC

Drafter/Submittal Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Experience drafting with AutoCAD * Ability to read and understand architectural drawings * Experience with millwork production methods and fabrication techniques * Proficiency in MS Office Suite ...

USAM DC

Drafter/Submittal Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Experience drafting with AutoCAD * Ability to read and understand architectural drawings * Experience with millwork production methods and fabrication techniques * Proficiency in MS Office Suite ...

Apply Early

exp

CAD Drafter

Washington, DC

$20 - $35/hr

Minimum requirements include a College Diploma in Engineering Technology or Architecture and 1 years of practical drafting & engineering design experience. * Basic Knowledge of Traffic Design ...

EXP

CAD Drafter

Washington, DC · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Minimum requirements include a College Diploma in Engineering Technology or Architecture and 1 years of practical drafting & engineering design experience. * Basic Knowledge of Traffic Design ...

Leidos

Junior Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA

Leidos has an opening for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. This position focuses on developing and modifying detailed engineering drawings, models, and technical documentation that support ...

Leidos

Junior Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

Leidos has an opening for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. This position focuses on developing and modifying detailed engineering drawings, models, and technical documentation that support ...

EXP

CAD Drafter (Part-time)

Washington, DC · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Minimum requirements include a College Diploma in Engineering Technology or Architecture and 1 years of practical drafting & engineering design experience. * Basic Knowledge of Traffic Design ...

exp

CAD Drafter (Part-time)

Washington, DC · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Minimum requirements include a College Diploma in Engineering Technology or Architecture and 1 years of practical drafting & engineering design experience. * Basic Knowledge of Traffic Design ...

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All JobsDrafting JobsDrafting Jobs in Washington

Drafting information

See Washington salary details

$16

$27

$42

How much do drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafting in Washington is $27.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $29.42 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 Washington? The most popular types of Drafting jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Drafting jobs in Washington? For Drafting jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Drafting jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Drafting jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Drafting jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Drafting job openings:
Drafting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drafting job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 81% In-person, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,658 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
CAD Designer/Drafter (Solidworks)

CAD Designer/Drafter (Solidworks)

NDX Human Capital Solutions

Hanover, MD • On-site

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Job Description: CAD Designer / Drafter (SolidWorks)

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced CAD Designer / Drafter with strong SolidWorks expertise to support high-volume drawing production for defense and government-related projects. This role is heavily focused on creating, updating, and maintaining engineering drawings from existing 3D models, with minimal emphasis on new design.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, is highly detail-oriented, and excels at working from pre-existing templates and models to deliver accurate, production-ready documentation.

Work Schedule

  • Hybrid schedule Monday–Thursday: Onsite (in-office)
  • Friday: Remote

Key Responsibilities

Drawing Production & Documentation

  • Create detailed 2D engineering drawings from existing 3D models using SolidWorks
  • Apply GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) in accordance with ANSI Y14.5 standards
  • Update and revise drawings based on redlines, markups, and engineering feedback
  • Ensure all drawings meet technical accuracy, completeness, and industry standards

CAD & Engineering Support

  • Utilize SolidWorks across multiple modules, including:
  • Parts & Assemblies
  • Sheet Metal
  • Weldments
  • Routing
  • PDM (Product Data Management)
  • Develop layouts and detailed fabrication drawings
  • Occasionally assist with:
  • Simple design tasks
  • Selection of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components

Collaboration & Responsiveness

  • Work cross-functionally with:
  • Engineers
  • Senior Designers
  • Manufacturing and Production Teams
  • Support real-time (“on-the-fly”) drawing updates in response to changing project needs
  • Contribute to a highly collaborative and dynamic team environment

Manufacturing Alignment

  • Ensure designs support:
  • Manufacturability
  • Ease of assembly
  • Maintainability
  • Apply working knowledge of:
  • CNC Machining
  • Sheet Metal Fabrication
  • Welding Processes

Required Qualifications

Experience & Education

  • 7–10 years of CAD drafting/design experience
  • Associate degree in a technical field (or equivalent hands-on experience)

Technical Skills

  • Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks, including:
  • Routing
  • Sheet Metal
  • Weldments
  • PDM
  • Strong understanding of:
  • ANSI Y14.5 GD&T standards
  • Military and/or defense drafting standards

Additional Requirements

  • U.S. Citizenship (required)
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
  • Must provide sample engineering drawings as part of the application process

Preferred Attributes

  • Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and consistency
  • Comfortable working from existing templates, legacy models, and established standards
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment
  • Effective communicator with strong teamwork skills

Work Environment

  • Fast-paced and deadline-driven
  • Collaborative team setting with shifting priorities
  • Minimal new design work; primary focus is high-quality drafting and documentation


Apply