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Engineer Drafter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Leidos has an opening for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. The primary focus of this position is the creation and modification of detailed engineering drawings, including parts, assemblies ...

Leidos has an opening for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. The primary focus of this position is the creation and modification of detailed engineering drawings, including parts, assemblies ...

Engineer/ Drafter

Riviera Beach, FL · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Position Overview We have an immediate opening for a Engineer / Drafter to join our growing team. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to innovative projects in a collaborative, fast-paced ...

Engineer/Drafter

Milton, WA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Engineer/Drafter Cannon Companies is looking for qualified applicants to join our team as an Intermediate level Drafter. Our Drafters work closely with Project Managers to develop a plan for each job.

Engineer/Drafter Cannon Companies is looking for qualified applicants to join our team as an Intermediate level Drafter. Our Drafters work closely with Project Managers to develop a plan for each job.

Engineer/Drafter

Milton, WA · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

Engineer/Drafter Cannon Companies is looking for qualified applicants to join our team as an Intermediate level Drafter. Our Drafters work closely with Project Managers to develop a plan for each job.

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AutoCad Engineer/Drafter

Fridley, MN · On-site

$50K - $72K/yr

AutoCAD Engineer/Drafter Vision Woodworking is a well-established manufacturer of high-end store fixtures and custom millwork located in Fridley, MN. We are currently seeking an experienced AutoCAD ...

Associate Engineer Drafter

Reston, VA · On-site

$73K - $132K/yr

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. In this role, you will create and modify detailed part, assembly, installation, and facility engineering drawings using ...

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. In this role, you will create and modify detailed part, assembly, installation, and facility engineering drawings using ...

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 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 ...

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Engineer Drafter information

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How much do engineer drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for engineer drafter in the United States is $27.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 collaboration that AI tools currently cannot fully replicate. AI can assist with automating repetitive tasks and improving efficiency, but skilled drafters are still essential for detailed design work and quality control. Proficiency in CAD software and understanding of engineering principles remain important for the job.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or software engineering with senior roles and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in high-demand industries or leadership positions.

How much do CAD engineers get paid?

CAD engineers, also known as engineering drafters, typically earn between $45,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks can earn higher salaries and additional benefits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engineer Drafter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engineer Drafter, you need a solid background in technical drawing, engineering principles, and proficiency in drafting standards, usually supported by a degree or certification in drafting or engineering technology. Expertise in computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is typically required, along with familiarity with industry-specific standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting complex instructions and collaborating with engineers and architects. These skills ensure the creation of accurate, functional, and compliant technical drawings that are critical for successful project execution.

What does an engineering drafter do?

An engineering drafter creates detailed technical drawings and plans used in manufacturing, construction, and engineering projects. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop precise diagrams, often working closely with engineers and architects to ensure accuracy and adherence to specifications.

What is the difference between Engineer Drafter vs Civil Drafter?

AspectEngineer DrafterCivil Drafter
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Engineering or Drafting, certifications may varyAssociate's degree or technical diploma in drafting or civil engineering
Work EnvironmentEngineering firms, construction companies, manufacturingPublic works departments, construction firms, consulting agencies
Industry UsageUsed across various engineering disciplines including mechanical, electrical, civilPrimarily in civil engineering projects like roads, bridges, and infrastructure
Comparison Search IntentOften compared for technical drafting skills and engineering knowledgeCompared for civil project drafting and infrastructure design

Engineer Drafters and Civil Drafters both create technical drawings, but Engineer Drafters typically work across multiple engineering disciplines with a broader scope, while Civil Drafters focus specifically on civil infrastructure projects. Both roles require technical skills and familiarity with CAD software, but their industry applications and project types differ.

What are Engineer Drafters?

Engineer Drafters are professionals who prepare technical drawings and plans used by engineers and architects to design buildings, machinery, and other products. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to convert engineers’ and architects’ designs into detailed schematics and blueprints. These drawings include specifications, dimensions, materials, and procedures, ensuring that construction or manufacturing teams have clear instructions. Engineer Drafters play a crucial role in translating conceptual designs into precise documents needed for production or construction. Their work helps ensure that projects meet quality standards and regulatory requirements.

How do Engineer Drafters typically collaborate with engineers and other team members during a project?

Engineer Drafters work closely with engineers, architects, and project managers to translate design concepts into detailed technical drawings. They frequently attend project meetings to discuss design changes, resolve technical issues, and ensure that drawings align with engineering specifications. Effective communication and feedback are essential, as drafters often revise plans based on input from multiple team members. This collaborative approach helps ensure accuracy, compliance with standards, and successful project delivery.
More about Engineer Drafter jobs
What states have the most Engineer Drafter jobs? States with the most job openings for Engineer Drafter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Engineer Drafter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,907 per year, or $27.4 per hour.
Engineer Drafter

Engineer Drafter

Leidos

Reston, VA • On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 427 rated business services


Job description

Leidos has an opening for an Engineer Drafter in Reston, Virginia. The primary focus of this position is the creation and modification of detailed engineering drawings, including parts, assemblies, installations, and facility models, based on basic layouts, established references, and standard engineering data. Work is performed using computer-aided design and modeling tools such as CAD, CAM, CATIA, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software.
In addition to drafting and modeling responsibilities, this role requires the development of technical solutions through collaboration with subject matter experts and stakeholders. The successful candidate will perform deep technical analyses and evaluate impacts to end products and solutions. This position requires the ability to solve complex and often ambiguous technical challenges where complete information may not be readily available. Candidates must demonstrate sound engineering judgment, creativity, exceptional attention to detail, and a commitment to producing high-quality work.
The selected candidate will work as part of an interdisciplinary team of government and contractor personnel in a fast-paced, mission-focused environment within a government facility.
Roles and Responsibilities
  • As a member of a characterization team, integrate all-source intelligence, geotechnical data, topographical data, underground infrastructure expertise, and engineering principles to identify and model facility functions (missions) and physical configurations, including layouts, structures, mission systems, support systems, and associated components.
  • Develop detailed 3D BIM models and 2D CAD drawings across multiple engineering disciplines.
  • Perform clash detection and coordination among engineering disciplines, identifying and resolving model conflicts and spatial issues prior to design completion.
  • Develop, maintain, and enhance project-specific and enterprise BIM libraries, including custom families, templates, metadata, and annotations.
  • Audit models to ensure data integrity, spatial accuracy, compliance with Level of Development (LOD) requirements, and adherence to organizational BIM, modeling, and simulation standards.
  • Generate customer-required deliverables, including technical reports, detailed measurements, material schedules, cross-sections, and supporting documentation directly from BIM models.
  • Participate in model coordination meetings with clients, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams.
  • Execute detailed engineering drawings and layouts in accordance with established drafting standards and engineering best practices.

Required Education, Skills, and Experience
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Active TS/SCI clearance, or an active Top Secret clearance with a current SSBI and eligibility to obtain a TS/SCI with polygraph.
  • Expert knowledge of, and demonstrated ability to apply, advanced technical principles, theories, and concepts.
  • Bachelor's degree with 8+ years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree with 6+ years of relevant experience. Additional relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Experience in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Protective Engineering, or a related discipline applicable to Building Information Modeling (BIM).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to effectively brief and interact with senior government and organizational leaders.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Working knowledge of protective engineering principles and physical force protection measures.
  • Experience with Autodesk Revit, Autodesk AutoCAD, and BIM software, methodologies, and best practices.
  • Experience with VENTSIM, ETAP, or other infrastructure modeling and simulation tools.
  • Military, intelligence community, or defense-related experience.
  • Construction experience involving mission-critical facilities, tunneling, underground structures, or large-scale excavations.
  • Experience with design reviews, engineering modifications, specifications development, dimensioning, and document management.
  • Experience developing and implementing BIM-related workflows, standards, and processes.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.
Original Posting:
June 2, 2026
For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.
Pay Range:
Pay Range $92,300.00 - $166,850.00
The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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