2

Entry Level Drafting Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Area Sales Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... drafting proposals, and keeping the sales engine running smoothly. If you're looking for hotel sales coordinator jobs, an entry-level hotel sales position, or a hospitality sales support role where ...

Family Law Attorney

Orland Park, IL · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

But this is not an entry-level attorney position. The right candidate already understands ... Draft, review, and file legal documents, including pleadings and motions, with precision and ...

This position is considered entry level and performs work of low complexity. The incumbent works ... Drafts content using web and search engine optimization (SEO) best practices with stakeholders. • ...

Draft estate planning documents using your own methods or use our document templates. * Stay up-to ... Must be licensed in the posted state. Entry level attorneys will be considered. * Can conduct ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Drafting information

See Illinois salary details

$14

$21

$28

How much do entry level drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drafting in Illinois is $21.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $23.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level drafter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Drafter, you need a solid understanding of technical drawing, geometry, and blueprint reading, typically supported by a relevant associate degree or certification in drafting. Familiarity with CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks is essential, along with knowledge of industry standards. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication help drafters accurately interpret project requirements and collaborate with engineers or architects. These skills ensure the production of precise and clear technical drawings that are critical for successful project execution.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level drafters when collaborating with engineers and architects?

Entry-level drafters often encounter challenges when translating complex design concepts from engineers and architects into precise technical drawings. Miscommunication can occur due to differing terminology or expectations, making it essential to ask clarifying questions and seek feedback regularly. Additionally, adapting to various drafting software and adhering to strict standards or project deadlines can be demanding. Developing strong communication skills and being proactive in learning from more experienced colleagues helps overcome these challenges and ensures successful project collaboration.

What is an entry level drafter?

Entry level drafting jobs are positions for individuals new to the field of drafting, typically responsible for creating technical drawings and plans under the supervision of more experienced drafters or engineers. These roles often involve using computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce layouts, diagrams, and schematics for construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects. Entry level drafters work closely with design teams to ensure that drawings meet project specifications and industry standards while gaining practical experience to advance in their careers.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drafting vs Junior Draftsman?

AspectEntry Level DraftingJunior Draftsman
CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree, basic CAD trainingSimilar credentials, often with some CAD certification
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, CAD software use, supervised tasksOffice environment, more hands-on CAD work, under supervision
Industry UsageCommon in architecture, engineering, constructionUsed interchangeably with Entry Level Drafting in many industries
Search & ComparisonOften compared with Junior Draftsman for entry rolesSimilar job titles, slight variation in terminology

Entry Level Drafting and Junior Draftsman roles are similar, both requiring basic CAD skills and entry-level credentials. The main difference lies in terminology used by employers; 'Junior Draftsman' is often used interchangeably with 'Entry Level Drafting,' with minimal variation in responsibilities or work environment.

How to start a career in entry level drafting?

To start a career in entry level drafting, obtain a high school diploma or equivalent and pursue a post-secondary education such as a certificate or associate degree in drafting, engineering, or a related field. Developing skills in CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks and gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships can improve job prospects.

Are entry level drafters still in demand?

Entry level drafters are still in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and construction, especially as companies seek to fill positions requiring proficiency in CAD software and technical drawing skills. Demand can vary by region and industry growth, but overall, the role remains a stable entry point for careers in design and drafting fields.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drafting jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Drafting jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Drafting jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Drafting jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drafting jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drafting jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Drafting job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,305 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Entry Level Grid Interconnection Consultant

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL

$62K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

123rd of 447 rated engineering


Job description

Description

This position in Sargent & Lundy's Consulting group will require you to focus on our utility planning and advisory projects, such as the following:

  • Preparing new generator interconnection applications, including development of conceptual single line diagram, verification of compliance with reactive power requirements, and development of PSS/E model to support the applications
  • Reviewing ISO feasibility and system impact studies to provide guidance to our clients, who are ISO Interconnection Customers
  • Performing independent power system studies, mostly on thermal and voltage contingency analyses, to support our client's generator interconnection planning strategies
  • Performing advanced grid system studies to evaluate specific scenarios and impacts as required by our clients, such as higher renewable penetration and retirement of existing units and evaluation of transmission and non-transmission alternatives
Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

This position requires a BS or MS in Electrical Engineering with strong academic background and coursework emphasis in Power Systems Analysis.

Preferred, but not required, would also be previous power systems engineering experience, including one or more of the following:

  • Knowledge of power regions and ISOs/RTOs - PJM, MISO, NYISO, ERCOT, SPP, CAISO, and ISO-NE
  • Experience in modeling inverter-based resources and renewable generation, such as Wind Turbine Generators (WTG), photovoltaic (PV), Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and hybrid generation, and associated collector system for interconnection applications within software programs PSS/E, PSLF, and/or PSCAD
  • Experience in using transmission planning software, particularly PSS/E and TARA, for load flow modeling and contingency studies
  • Experience in dynamic transient, stability, and other advance studies in EMTP-RV or PSCAD is a plus.

Also extremely important are:

  • Excellent verbal/written communication skills.
  • Experience in writing technical reports and proposals.
  • Solid interpersonal skills and ability to work with and guide others.
  • Project planning and leadership skills.
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to solve problems using modern tools:

  • You are expected to take engineering problems from issue to solution using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Many engineers in these roles build or use automation to create calculations, summarize technical documents, or draft design documentation, including appropriate use of agentic AI tools, with strong engineering judgment and verification of results.
  • Programming or scripting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate calculations, design checks, reporting, or data transformation is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other training in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that helps you apply automation or agentic AI to real engineering problems.
Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range$62,998 - $90,586Transparency StatementSargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.Equal Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Sargent & Lundy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media