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Draftsman Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Kratos Defense

Engineering Drafter SPY-1

Crane, IN

The Engineering Drafter (Radar Systems / Navy Programs) provides technical drafting and documentation support for U.S. Navy radar systems, subassemblies, and shipboard equipment. This role converts ...

The Kelly Group

Drafting Technician

Lafayette, IN

The Kelly Group is seeking a Drafting Technician for its Lafayette, Indiana , facility. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of experience, preferably in work related to industrial contracting ...

The Kelly Group

Drafting Technician

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

The Kelly Group is seeking a Drafting Technician for its Lafayette, Indiana , facility. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of experience, preferably in work related to industrial contracting ...

SAIC

SCA Drafter/CAD Operator IV

Crane, IN

$22.50 - $30.25/hr

ORA_ON_SITE Description This position will provide drafting and documentation support for NSWC Crane. In this role you will support a team creating/updating Technical Data Package(s) using SolidWorks ...

The Kelly Group

Drafting Technician

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

The Kelly Group is seeking a Drafting Technician for its Lafayette, Indiana, facility. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of experience, preferably in work related to industrial contracting ...

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

Detailer / Drafter

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

SubsidiaryNew MillenniumOverview Join the New Millennium Corporate team in Fort Wayne, IN, as a Detailer / Drafter and help bring steel building solutions to life from our office at Electric Works.

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

Detailer / Drafter

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

Subsidiary New Millennium Overview Join the New Millennium Corporate team in Fort Wayne, IN, as a Detailer / Drafter and help bring steel building solutions to life from our office at Electric Works.

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Draftsman information

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$41

How much do draftsman jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for draftsman in Indiana is $25.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $29.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying drafting job?

The highest paying drafting jobs are often in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or nuclear engineering, where drafters may earn higher salaries due to technical complexity and required certifications. Senior or lead drafters with extensive experience and proficiency in advanced CAD software can also command higher wages. Additionally, drafters working in industries with strict safety and regulatory standards tend to earn more.

What Does a Draftsman Do?

A draftsman, or drafter, is a professional who is skilled in generating computer-aided design and drafting (CAD) drawings. A draftsman may specialize in various areas such as architecture, mechanical system, or civil engineering or in working with certain materials, like electrical circuits, concrete, or steel. They may produce technical drawings for manufacturing as well. The role and responsibilities of a draftsman vary significantly from one job to the next.

What does a draftsman do?

A draftsman, also known as a drafter, is a professional who creates detailed technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to turn ideas and specifications from architects or engineers into precise blueprints. These drawings are essential for communicating how structures or products should be built, ensuring accuracy and compliance with industry standards.

Do I need a degree to be a Draftsman?

A degree is not strictly required to become a draftsman, but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent and relevant technical training. Proficiency in CAD software and strong technical skills are essential, and some may pursue certifications to enhance job prospects.

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

To thrive as a Draftsman, you need proficiency in technical drawing, a solid understanding of engineering or architectural principles, and typically an associate degree or certification in drafting. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD or Revit is essential, along with knowledge of industry standards and building codes. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to collaborate with engineers and architects are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate, clear, and efficient creation of technical drawings that are crucial for successful project planning and execution.

What is the work of a Draftsman?

A Draftsman creates detailed technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering projects. They use CAD software to develop accurate representations of structures, machinery, or components, ensuring designs meet specifications and standards. Draftsmen often collaborate with engineers and architects and need strong technical skills and attention to detail.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI in the near future, as their role involves complex interpretation, customization, and understanding of project requirements that AI tools currently cannot fully replicate. However, AI can assist with automating repetitive tasks and improving efficiency, making CAD drafters more productive. Proficiency in CAD software and understanding of design principles remain essential for the role.

What are some common challenges faced by a Draftsman when working on multiple projects simultaneously?

Draftsmen often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges such as managing tight deadlines, ensuring design consistency, and adapting to varying client requirements. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are crucial to prioritize tasks and keep all projects on track. Additionally, clear communication with engineers, architects, and project managers helps resolve conflicts and ensures that all drawings meet the required standards. Learning to balance attention to detail with efficiency is key for success in this role.

What is the difference between Draftsman vs Civil Engineer?

AspectDraftsmanCivil Engineer
CredentialsDiploma or certificate in drafting or CAD softwareBachelor's degree in civil engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, architectural firms, construction sitesDesign, planning, and project management in construction projects
Industry UsageUsed mainly for creating technical drawings and plansInvolved in project design, analysis, and oversight

Draftsmen focus on creating detailed technical drawings based on specifications, often with CAD software, while civil engineers oversee entire construction projects, including design, analysis, and management. Both roles are essential in the construction industry but differ in scope and responsibilities.

More about Draftsman jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Draftsman jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Draftsman jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Draftsman jobs in Indiana? For Draftsman jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Draftsman jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Draftsman jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Draftsman jobs in IN? For Draftsman jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Draftsman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Draftsman job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,156 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Engineering Drafter SPY-1

Engineering Drafter SPY-1

Kratos Defense

Crane, IN

Full-time

Re-posted 6 hours ago

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Kratos Defense is currently seeking an Engineering Drafter in support of the SPY-1 Radar Program in Crane, Indiana. The Engineering Drafter (Radar Systems / Navy Programs) provides technical drafting and documentation support for U.S. Navy radar systems, subassemblies, and shipboard equipment. This role converts engineering concepts, field-service findings, depot-level repair data, and legacy Navy technical documentation into accurate, configuration-controlled drawing packages. The Drafter collaborates with radar engineers, technicians, logistics teams, and manufacturing personnel to support modernization, sustainment, and restoration of Navy radar capabilities.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Radar & Navy System Drafting

  • Prepare, update, and maintain detailed drawings for radar components, cabinets, arrays, phase shifter drivers (PSD), power supplies, waveguides, cabling, cooling systems, and electronic modules.
  • Generate mechanical, electrical, and electro-mechanical drawings that align with U.S. Navy technical data requirements and applicable MIL-STDs.
  • Translate engineering notes, depot repair observations, reverse-engineered components, and GFI technical manuals into formal drawing packages.

Support for Sustainment, Harvesting & Depot Repairs

  • Create or revise documentation supporting equipment harvesting, cabinet restoration, 2M-level repairs, and end-of-life component replacements.
  • Build drawing packages to support reassembly, refurbishment, and test of radar equipment (e.g., SPY-1 or similar Navy systems).
  • Develop or update BOMs, install drawings, wiring diagrams, schematics, and cable harness documentation for radar subsystems.

Engineering Collaboration

  • Work closely with radar engineers, field technicians, and manufacturing leads to resolve discrepancies and ensure technical accuracy.
  • Integrate redlines from engineering walkdowns, ship checks, depot reviews, and government review cycles.
  • Participate in drawing reviews, design reviews, and CM/DM boards.

Configuration Management & Documentation Control

  • Maintain drawing control within CM/DM systems such as PTC Windchill or equivalent.
  • Manage revisions, ECO/ECR workflows, and metadata updates to ensure compliance with program baselines.
  • Ensure documentation aligns with MIL-STD-31000, NAVSEA drafting standards, and other applicable Navy data deliverables.

Technical Data Generation & Compliance

  • Support creation of drawing packages required for Logistics Product Data (LPD), technical manuals, provisioning, maintenance procedures, and government deliverables.
  • Ensure all drafting work meets DoD, NAVSEA, and program-specific formatting, marking, and classification requirements.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Proficiency in CAD platforms such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CREO, or Inventor.
  • Ability to read and interpret radar drawings, Navy technical manuals, schematics, block diagrams, wiring diagrams, and legacy MIL-SPEC documentation.
  • Understanding of shipboard cable routing, enclosure design, radar cooling architecture, grounding/bonding standards, and EMI/EMC considerations.
  • Familiarity with DoD/Navy technical data practices and configuration management workflows.
  • Experience working with legacy and modern Navy radar systems preferred (e.g., AN/SPY-1, SPS-49, SPQ-9B, illumination radars, signal processors, antenna arrays).
  • Strong ability to apply GD&T and ASME Y14 drafting standards.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

  • Associate degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field OR equivalent hands-on engineering drafting experience.
  • 3+ years drafting mechanical and/or electrical components for defense, aerospace, naval, or radar systems.
  • Experience creating drawing packages supporting manufacturing, repair, or sustainment activities.

DESIRED / PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

  • Prior experience supporting NAVSEA, PEO IWS, NSWC, defense contractors, or Fleet sustainment programs.
  • Experience drafting components related to antenna arrays, signal processors, radar cabinets, or shipboard power systems.
  • Background or familiarity with 2M repair standards, test stations, or electronics refurbishment is highly desirable.
  • Experience producing drawings from legacy Navy technical data or incomplete documentation (reverse engineering).
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance (Top Secret preferred for some radar programs).

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. Citizenship required due to DoD contract obligations.
  • Ability to handle sensitive and classified information per Navy and DoD requirements.
  • Ability to support occasional travel to shipyards, government test sites, or radar facilities for walkdowns or data collection.

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