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Freelance Architectural Designer / AutoCAD Drafter (Residential & Commercial Permit Drawings) Job ... Experience coordinating with structural engineers and other design consultants. * Familiarity with ...
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Be Seen First
Freelance Architectural Designer / AutoCAD Drafter (Residential & Commercial Permit Drawings) Job ... Experience coordinating with structural engineers and other design consultants. * Familiarity with ...
Freelance Structural Engineer information
See New York salary details
$54.7K - $64.8K
2% of jobs
$64.8K - $75K
7% of jobs
$75K - $85.1K
12% of jobs
$87.7K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$85.1K - $95.3K
15% of jobs
The median wage is $103.5K / yr.
$95.3K - $105.4K
17% of jobs
$105.4K - $115.6K
16% of jobs
$120.6K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$115.6K - $125.7K
12% of jobs
$125.7K - $135.9K
9% of jobs
$135.9K - $146K
5% of jobs
$146K - $156.1K
3% of jobs
$156.1K - $166.3K
2% of jobs
$54.7K
$108.7K
$166.3K
How much do freelance structural engineer jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance structural engineer in New York is $108,747.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,500.00 and $123,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
How do freelance structural engineers typically manage client communication and project expectations?
Freelance structural engineers often work with multiple clients simultaneously, so clear and consistent communication is essential. Most use project management tools, regular progress updates, and detailed contracts to set expectations around deliverables, timelines, and revisions. They frequently collaborate with architects, contractors, and other engineers remotely, ensuring all parties are aligned through scheduled meetings and shared documentation. Managing client expectations upfront about scope, budget, and potential challenges helps build trust and smooth project execution.
What is the difference between Freelance Structural Engineer vs Structural Engineer?
| Aspect | Freelance Structural Engineer | Structural Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a degree in civil or structural engineering, licensure varies by region | Requires a degree, licensure, and professional registration |
| Work Environment | Self-employed, project-based, often remote or on-site at client locations | Employed by firms, government agencies, or corporations, primarily office-based with site visits |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Works independently or with multiple clients across construction, architecture, and consulting | Works within organizations on infrastructure, building design, and construction projects |
Freelance Structural Engineers operate independently, handling diverse projects on a contract basis, while Structural Engineers are typically employed by organizations, focusing on ongoing projects within a structured environment. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment setup and work environment.
What does a freelance structural engineer do?
A Freelance Structural Engineer provides engineering expertise on a contract or project basis, rather than working as a full-time employee for a single company. They design, analyze, and evaluate the structural integrity of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Freelance structural engineers work with architects, contractors, and clients to ensure that structures are safe, compliant with regulations, and efficient. Their responsibilities often include creating detailed plans, performing site visits, and offering consulting services for both new constructions and renovations.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance structural engineer?
To thrive as a Freelance Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, typically backed by a relevant degree and Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Proficiency in structural analysis software such as SAP2000, ETABS, AutoCAD, and Revit, along with knowledge of building codes and standards, is essential. Strong project management, client communication, and problem-solving abilities help build trust and deliver projects efficiently. These skills ensure safe, compliant, and innovative structural designs while supporting successful client relationships and business growth.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in New York? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in New York are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Structural Engineer jobs in New York? For Freelance Structural Engineer jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Structural Engineer jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Structural Engineer jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Freelance Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in New York with the most Freelance Structural Engineer job openings:
Contractor
Posted 17 days ago
Job description
Freelance Architectural Designer / AutoCAD Drafter (Residential & Commercial Permit Drawings)
Job Type: Freelance / Independent Contractor (1099)
Work Location: Remote (Preference given to candidates located in the New York Tri-State Area)
Hours: Flexible, Project-Based
About the Position
We are a growing architectural design and consulting firm seeking an experienced Freelance Architectural Designer/AutoCAD Drafter to assist with residential and light commercial projects on an as-needed basis. This is an excellent opportunity for a self-motivated professional looking for flexible, project-based work with the potential for an ongoing working relationship.
The ideal candidate has 5–7 years of experience producing permit-ready construction documents, possesses strong technical drafting skills, and can work independently with minimal supervision.
Responsibilities
- Prepare complete architectural construction document sets for residential and light commercial projects.
- Produce permit, bidding, and construction drawings using AutoCAD.
- Develop floor plans, elevations, building sections, wall sections, construction details, schedules, and code-related notes.
- Revise drawings based on redlines, consultant comments, and client revisions.
- Coordinate architectural drawings with structural, civil, MEP, and survey information.
- Review drawings for accuracy, constructability, and code compliance.
- Meet project deadlines while maintaining a high level of quality and attention to detail.
Required Qualifications
- 5–7 years of professional architectural drafting/design experience.
- Strong experience with residential renovations, additions, custom homes, and/or commercial tenant fit-outs.
- Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD.
- Experience preparing permit-ready construction document sets.
- Thorough understanding of wood-frame construction methods, architectural detailing, and standard construction practices.
- Working knowledge of the International Residential Code (IRC), International Building Code (IBC), and New York State Building Codes.
- Ability to work independently from sketches, markups, PDF redlines, and verbal direction.
- Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve drafting conflicts.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience coordinating with structural engineers and other design consultants.
- Familiarity with zoning reviews, municipal permitting, and responding to building department comments.
- Experience performing field measurements and preparing as-built drawings.
- Knowledge of ADA accessibility requirements for commercial projects.
- Experience using Bluebeam, Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft Office, and cloud-based file-sharing platforms.
What We're Looking For
The ideal candidate is someone who:
- Produces clean, accurate, and well-organized construction drawings.
- Requires minimal supervision and takes ownership of assigned projects.
- Communicates proactively and responds promptly.
- Is dependable, detail-oriented, and committed to meeting deadlines.
- Takes pride in producing high-quality, permit-ready drawing sets.
- Is interested in developing a long-term working relationship with a growing architectural firm.
Compensation
Compensation is competitive and based on experience, qualifications, and project complexity. Both hourly and project-based compensation arrangements will be considered.
To Apply
Please submit the following:
- Resume
- Portfolio (PDF or online link)
- Two to three sample permit or construction drawing sets that you personally prepared (preferred)
- Brief description of your residential and/or commercial project experience
- Your hourly rate or typical project pricing
- Weekly availability
- Professional references (preferred)
Please include a brief description of your role in preparing the submitted drawing sets (i.e., whether you created the drawings from scratch, worked from markups, or revised an existing set).
We are seeking a dependable freelance professional who can become a long-term extension of our team and consistently produce high-quality, permit-ready construction documents.