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Drafting Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Tate

CAD Designer/Drafter

Columbia, MD · On-site

$60K/yr

About the Role The CAD Designer/Drafter is responsible for taking inputs provided by sales and R&D engineers and using them to create models and drawings that meet engineering and customer ...

WSP

Technician, CADD Design Support

Herndon, VA · On-site

Use 3D computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software and work closely with engineers to resolve design details or discrepancies, and to prepare drawings which require a high degree of precision ...

Oceaneering International, Inc.

Senior Designer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$38.75 - $58.17/hr

The Senior Designer applies creative design skills, computer aided design drafting (CADD) practices, and knowledge of manufacturing techniques to the generation of solid models, layout, assembly, and ...

Oceaneering International, Inc.

Staff Designer

Hanover, MD · On-site

$45.24 - $67.84/hr

The Staff Designer applies creative design skills, computer aided design drafting (CADD) practices, and knowledge of manufacturing techniques to the generation of solid models, layout, assembly, and ...

Unified Patents

Senior Patent Counsel

Washington, DC · On-site +1

Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), in particular working on ex parte reexamination proceedings, post-grant petitions (IPR, PGR), or other administrative drafting and litigation experience.

A Head for Profits

Beer Technician

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$22/hr

As a Draft Beer Quality Technician (DQT), you are responsible for ensuring local bars/restaurants serve the highest quality pints of draft beer. A typical day will be visiting customer locations to ...

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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 Drafter / Technician

WDP & Associates Consulting EN

Manassas, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

WDP's Manassas, Virginia office is seeking to fill a full-time position of CAD Drafter/ Field Technician. The successful candidate will assist WDPs engineering staff on projects of varying size and complexity. The CAD Drafter/Field Technician position is an entry level position for candidates with less than five years of relevant work experience. The CAD Drafter/Field Technician will perform the following duties:

  • Prepare repair and restoration drawings and details for various architectural, structural, and building enclosure repair projects.
  • Prepare graphic illustrations for presentations and reports.
  • Assist engineering staff with surveys, inspections, and investigations of buildings and structures by measuring and documenting existing conditions.
  • Perform quality assurance and diagnostic testing to identify air and water leakage through various building components including windows, curtain walls, roofing, masonry, and metal panel systems.
  • Perform field inspections of various repair projects to document compliance with approved project plans and specifications.
  • Track and perform maintenance and calibration of various testing equipment.

Previous experience with the testing, inspections, equipment, and systems mentioned above is not a prerequisite. This position includes a mix of field and office assignments and will require the candidate to perform field work on active construction sites. This position is likely to require physical lifting, access to structures via scaffolding/manlift, confined space entry, and/or extended travel.


WDP is a forensic engineering consulting firm with an extensive portfolio of projects ranging from historic preservation to new construction.  WDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace. WDP is a small business certified, employee-owned company providing a Comprehensive Benefits Package :

  • Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance
  • 3 weeks of paid time off and 7 paid holidays (at hire, this increases over time!)
  • 401(k) plan with company match
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Company-paid participation in industry groups, memberships, and professional seminars.

At WDP, we strive to create a work environment that fosters employee interaction and inclusiveness. From the founders of the company to senior leaders to project managers, we encourage an open-door policy where all staff can ask questions and have their voices heard. We strongly believe that creating a work environment that is fun and enjoyable leads to better work-life balance and more satisfied clients.  Discover the advantages of working with us!  

Requirements

The Successful Candidate will possess the following:

  • Career Studies Certificate (C.S.C.) or Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Computer Aided Drafting and Design, Architecture Technology, or similar technical program of study to include CADD.
  • Strong mechanical skills (ability to work with basic hand tools take accurate measurements, and create clear, concise field sketches)
  • Good communication and writing skills
  • Ability to work from heights and elevated platforms, including ladders, scaffolds, aerial manlifts, suspended scaffolding, etc.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving history
  • Ability to work well in a fast-paced professional office environment
  • Availability to work overtime to meet project deadlines
  • Ability to work in the field and to travel depending on job assignment and workload
  • Completion of OSHA 10 training and/or construction experience is a plus
  • Basic AutoCAD competency demonstrated though a proficiency test during the interview

Apply