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Draftsight Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Solidworks 3D CAD, Autocad/Draftsight 2-D CAD application, Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, Outlook). Job Requirements: * Bachelor of Science Degree including BSME, BSMET. * 2-5 years of ...

Concept Developer

Chicago, IL · Remote

$111K - $166K/yr

Proficiency with 2D/3D CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD, DraftSight, SolidWorks) and presentation software. * Ability to identify operational challenges, facilitate technical discussions, and develop ...

Draftsight information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$27

$44

How much do draftsight jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for draftsight in Chicago, IL is $27.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.78 and $31.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges DraftSight users face when transitioning from other CAD software, and how can they overcome them in a professional setting?

Professionals moving to DraftSight from other CAD platforms often encounter challenges such as adapting to new interface layouts, learning different command structures, and ensuring compatibility with existing project files. To overcome these obstacles, it's helpful to take advantage of DraftSight’s built-in tutorials and online user forums, which offer tips on workflow optimization and file conversion. Collaborating with team members who are experienced with DraftSight can also streamline the learning process and ensure a smooth transition for ongoing projects.

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

To thrive as a DraftSight Designer, you need strong proficiency in 2D CAD drafting, a background in engineering or architecture, and familiarity with technical drawing standards. Expertise in using DraftSight software, as well as knowledge of file formats like DWG/DXF and integration with other CAD platforms, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure high-quality designs and successful project collaboration. These skills are essential for producing accurate technical drawings, streamlining workflows, and meeting client or project specifications.

What is DraftSight and what is it used for?

DraftSight is a professional 2D and 3D CAD (computer-aided design) software primarily used for creating, editing, and viewing engineering drawings and blueprints. It is widely used by architects, engineers, and construction professionals to produce precise technical drawings such as floor plans, schematics, and mechanical parts. DraftSight offers a familiar interface for users experienced with other CAD programs and supports DWG and DXF file formats, making it compatible with industry standards.

Is CAD drafting a good career?

CAD drafting is a viable career that involves creating technical drawings using software like DraftSight or AutoCAD. It requires attention to detail, technical skills, and knowledge of industry standards, and can lead to opportunities in engineering, architecture, and manufacturing fields.

What is the difference between Draftsight vs CAD Technician?

AspectDraftsightCAD Technician
Primary Role2D drafting and drafting software usageCreating detailed technical drawings and plans
Required SkillsProficiency in CAD software, technical drawingCAD software skills, technical knowledge, design skills
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, engineering companies, architecture firmsEngineering, architecture, manufacturing industries
CertificationsNone mandatory, but CAD software certifications helpfulCAD certifications often preferred or required

Draftsight is a CAD software used primarily for 2D drafting, while a CAD Technician uses various CAD tools, including Draftsight, to create detailed technical drawings. Draftsight is a software application, whereas CAD Technician is a job role that may utilize Draftsight among other tools to produce technical plans in engineering, architecture, or manufacturing industries.

Are drafters still in demand?

Draftsight drafters, who use CAD software to create technical drawings, continue to be in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. Employment opportunities depend on industry growth, technical skills, and proficiency with CAD tools like Draftsight, with steady demand for skilled drafters in many regions.

What is the highest paying drafting job?

Senior architectural and civil drafters, as well as specialized CAD managers, tend to have the highest salaries in drafting careers. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and experience with tools like DraftSight or AutoCAD, and they typically offer higher compensation due to increased responsibility and expertise.

What company owns DraftSight?

DraftSight is owned by Dassault Systèmes, a software company specializing in 3D design and engineering solutions. Dassault Systèmes develops CAD tools and offers DraftSight as part of its product portfolio for professionals in design and engineering fields.
What are popular job titles related to Draftsight jobs in Chicago, IL? For Draftsight jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Draftsight job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,545 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
Design Engineer

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Design Engineer
Performs duties related to the creation of CAD solid models, layout and detail design of customized material handling equipment (in-floor lift systems, portable jack systems and other similar heavy equipment for example) including part and assembly design, creation and documentation in support of assigned design production projects. Creates detail machine design drawings, performs basic machine design calculations for part and component sizing and conformance to requirements. Works as part of a product machine design team whose goal is to realize the design of the heavy equipment to meet defined performance requirements.
Under General Direction:
  • Create CAD solid models of component parts and assemblies used to realize the overall design of equipment machinery to meet performance and design requirements.
  • Design weldments with supporting calculations to meet the strength and performance requirements for the product, part or assembly, confirming its ability to meet performance requirements.
  • Creates dimensional detail design drawings with bill of materials to facilitate the manufacture of the parts, assemblies, and overall equipment.
  • Integrates vendor supplied (OEM) components and assemblies (including company specified and purchased electrical components) into the design of the overall equipment.
  • Creates layouts of the equipment, components and assemblies to confirm conformance with define design and determine envelope constraints.
  • Assesses and reports on progress of assigned tasks to management and assigned project managers.
  • Supports the technical troubleshooting and issue resolution as it relates to the design of a part, assembly or overall product.
  • Review and check detail drawings and solid models created by other design team members in support of assigned projects for completeness and conformance to design standards and requirements.
  • Supports overall company performance goals.

Reports to: The designated product equipment group supervisor or manager.
Uses: Solidworks 3D CAD, Autocad/Draftsight 2-D CAD application, Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Job Requirements:
  • Bachelor of Science Degree including BSME, BSMET.
  • 2-5 years of professional design experience. Focus in machinery, mechanical or structural design preferred.
  • A demonstrated working knowledge of and experience with Solidworks 3D CAD application.
  • Ability to read, understand and interpret machine and structural detail design and arrangement drawings.
  • Ability to read, understand and interpret electrical prints.
  • Have a working knowledge of and the ability to perform calculations sizing structural steel components and associated welds.
  • Have a working knowledge of machine design including sizing shafting, couplings and bearing components.
  • Experience in large industrial equipment industry preferred.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Have a working knowledge of MS Office Word, Excel and Outlook.
  • Provide technical support to manufacturing operations and other functional areas of the company.
  • Ability to travel as needed.
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) at customer sites and Whiting facilities.

Performs other duties as assigned. Work with equipment designers and engineers to support assigned projects. Participates in company continuous improvement activities, research and development. Must follow all safety rules and procedures and maintain a professional attitude working with customer and other company team members.
Pay Range: $90,000 - $100,000 yearly based on experience, education, skills and qualifications.
Benefits:
401K
401K Matching
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Disability Insurance
Life Insurance
Paid Time Off
Paid Holidays
Tuition Reimbursement
Flexible Working Arrangement
We are committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status