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Draftsman Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$50K - $90K/yr

Saalex Corporation is seeking a Draftsman/Documentation Specialist II in Tidewater, VA and San Diego, CA. Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and Information Technology Services company with a focus on ...

Project Drafter Would you like to be part of a family who loves to take on exciting challenges? Metromont LLC has been one of the leaders in the construction industry for nearly a century and is ...

Project Drafter Would you like to be part of a family who loves to take on exciting challenges? Metromont LLC has been one of the leaders in the construction industry for nearly a century and is ...

Project Drafter Would you like to be part of a family who loves to take on exciting challenges? Metromont LLC has been one of the leaders in the construction industry for nearly a century and is ...

Arconic is currently in search of a Drafter I to join our Kawneer teambased in Harrisonburg, VA . At Arconic, we take pride in our work and our innovative products and technologies that advance ...

Arconic is currently in search of a Drafter I to join our Kawneer team based in Harrisonburg, VA . At Arconic, we take pride in our work and our innovative products and technologies that advance ...

Arconic is currently in search of a Drafter I to join our Kawneer team based in Harrisonburg, VA . At Arconic, we take pride in our work and our innovative products and technologies that advance ...

Project Drafter

Winchester, VA · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

POSITION PURPOSE The Project Drafter designs and prepares plans and scale drawings for complex projects, integrating skilled architectural/engineering drafting methods and procedures with the ...

Arconic is currently in search of a Drafter I to join our Kawneer teambased in Harrisonburg, VA . At Arconic, we take pride in our work and our innovative products and technologies that advance ...

Coordinate drafting work with engineers and architects * Revise computer-aided designs and plans to comply with modified specifications made during actual construction * Provide technical guidance ...

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3D Draftsperson

La Crosse, VA · On-site

$18 - $29/hr

We are searching for a 3D drafter to assist with our current workload. In this role, you will be using Autocad, Autocad Inventor and Solidworks to create and modify our designs. You will be ...

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Draftsman information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$26

$43

How much do draftsman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for draftsman in Virginia is $26.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.96 and $30.29 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Draftsman jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Draftsman jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Draftsman jobs in Virginia? For Draftsman jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Draftsman jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Draftsman jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Draftsman jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Draftsman job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Draftsman jobs in VA? For Draftsman jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Draftsman job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,382 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Alion Science and Technology delivers advanced engineering, IT and operational solutions to strengthen national security and drive business results. For customers in defense, civilian government and commercial industries, Alion's engineered solutions support smarter decision-making and enhanced readiness in rapidly-changing environments.

Building on over 75 years of innovation, Alion turns obstacles into opportunities to help customers achieve their missions. Alion employee-owners are located at offices, customer sites and laboratories worldwide.

Job Description

he NCTE Draftsman and Technical Documentation Specialist is responsible for the development of detailed, technical drawings and documentation in support of the NCTE Enterprise. Working with NCTE network and installation engineers, the draftsman/technical documentation specialist will be required to gather requirements from technical personnel, and based upon requirements, create and maintain technical NCTE Installation design and as built plans, to include detailed facility, cabling, power, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and network drawings. In addition, the draftsman/technical documentation specialist will be required to develop all technical documentation required as part of the NCTE Installation process, including Fleet Readiness Certification Board (FRCB) packages, approved hardware and technical specification lists, site survey reports, standard operating procedures and site manuals. The Draftsman/Technical Documentation Specialist will be required to periodically travel to NCTE Locations, to survey proposed and existing NCTE installation sites, and develop drawings and reports according to the results. Additionally, the Draftsman/Documentation Specialist will be required to maintain NCTE Drawing and documentation libraries using various information sharing systems, and to periodically adjust information contained therein to enhance information sharing across the NCTE Enterprise.

Duties:
+As required, create, develop and modify NCTE technical drawings using AutoCAD and Microsoft Visio Software, ensuring drawings conform to Navy and industry best practices for technical IT drawing and design documentation.
+Develop technical documentation required as part of the NCTE Installation process.
+Maintain NCTE Documentation and Drawing libraries across relevant Information storage and sharing platforms utilized by the NCTE.

Qualifications

High School diploma, or equivalent.

3 years' experience in computer aided design and drafting, with an emphasis on IT system drawing design.

Must be a US Citizen, able to obtain a Secret security clearance.

+Expert level knowledge of Autocad (2D, 3D, and VBA).
+Expert level knowledge of Adobe Acrobat professional.
+Advanced understanding of Microsoft Office products, to include Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Visio.
+Advanced understanding of IT System design and drawing concepts.
+An understanding of electrical and HVAC concepts, specifically related to systems required to support IT installations. This includes the concepts of electrical grounding, heat/power conversion, and IT System cooling principles and best practices.
+Basic knowledge of US Government Tempest regulations.
+Ability to lift 30 pounds, and work on ladders.
+Ability to spend up to 25% of the year in a travel status, away from home base.

Additional Information
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.