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Independent Contractor Solidworks Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ARA

Senior Drafter

Madison, AL · On-site

$60K - $62K/yr

The complexity of assignments requires exercise of considerable initiative, latitude, independent ... Possess a strong working knowledge of Solidworks and features in Solidworks drawings environment

System One

Mechanical Designer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

... Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Overview The Mechanical Designer uses SolidWorks ... Capable of working independently, identifying problems, and developing effective solutions.

System One

Mechanical Designer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

... Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Overview The Mechanical Designer uses SolidWorks ... Capable of working independently, identifying problems, and developing effective solutions.

NextDeavor Inc.

Drafter/Designer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$26.60 - $30/hr

Proficiency with CAD concepts; prior SolidWorks experience preferred * Ability to perform basic ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team; strong attention to detail * Must meet U.S ...

Fairbanks Morse Defense

Controls Designer II

Thomaston, CT · On-site

$83K - $115K/yr

We're one of the nation's leading marine defense contractors because of the highly trained and ... Use CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) to create and revise production drawings (detail and assembly ...

Berriehill Research

Senior Drafter

Madison, AL

$60K - $62K/yr

The complexity of assignments requires exercise of considerable initiative, latitude, independent ... Possess a strong working knowledge of Solidworks and features in Solidworks drawings environment

System One

Mechanical Designer

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

... Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Overview The Mechanical Designer uses SolidWorks ... Capable of working independently, identifying problems, and developing effective solutions.

Belcan

Drafter/Designer

Irvine, CA

$26.60 - $30/hr

S. Government contracting citizenship eligibility requirements. Must be a US Citizen. ESSENTIAL ... Work may be independent but will have interactions with engineers and members from other ...

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Independent Contractor Solidworks information

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How much do independent contractor solidworks jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent contractor solidworks in the United States is $1,089.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $721.15 and $1,211.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Solidworks vs CAD Designer?

AspectIndependent Contractor SolidworksCAD Designer
CredentialsProficiency in Solidworks, relevant certificationsProficiency in CAD software, certifications may vary
Work EnvironmentFreelance, project-based, remote or on-siteIn-house or freelance, often in design firms or manufacturing
Employer UsageClients across industries hiring for specific projectsCompanies needing ongoing or project-specific design work

While both roles involve CAD software, an Independent Contractor Solidworks works independently on specific projects, often remotely, and manages their own clients. A CAD Designer may work in-house or freelance, focusing on creating detailed designs for manufacturing or engineering firms. The key difference lies in the employment structure and project scope.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor SolidWorks Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor using SolidWorks, you need advanced proficiency in CAD design, a strong background in engineering or drafting, and a relevant degree or certification in mechanical design. Expertise with SolidWorks software, PDM systems, and familiarity with industry standards like GD&T are typically required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and time management skills set top contractors apart when working with clients and meeting project deadlines. These abilities ensure high-quality, efficient designs and client satisfaction in a competitive freelance environment.

How do Independent Contractor SolidWorks professionals typically manage multiple client projects and deadlines?

As an Independent Contractor specializing in SolidWorks, you'll often juggle several client projects with varying requirements and timelines. Effective time management, clear communication, and setting realistic expectations with clients are crucial to ensure timely deliveries and maintain quality. Many contractors rely on project management tools to track progress and prioritize tasks, and it's common to establish regular check-ins with clients to clarify project scopes and address any changes early. Building strong organizational habits and learning to anticipate potential bottlenecks can greatly improve your ability to handle multiple assignments successfully.

What is an Independent Contractor SolidWorks specialist?

An Independent Contractor SolidWorks specialist is a professional who works on a contract basis to provide design, drafting, and modeling services using SolidWorks software. Unlike full-time employees, independent contractors are typically hired for specific projects or periods and often work with multiple clients. Their responsibilities can include creating 3D models, technical drawings, and simulations for engineering, manufacturing, or product development needs. They must be proficient in SolidWorks and possess strong communication and problem-solving skills to collaborate effectively with clients. This role offers flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse projects.
More about Independent Contractor Solidworks jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Solidworks jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Solidworks job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Solidworks jobs? The most popular types of Solidworks jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Solidworks jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Solidworks jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Solidworks jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Solidworks jobs are:
Independent Contractor Solidworks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Solidworks job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,645 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Senior Drafter

ARA

Madison, AL • On-site

$60K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Innovative Solutions To Complex Problems - ARA is globally recognized for applying our diverse science and engineering experience to drive innovation and solve complex problems.
The Prototyping Manufacturing and Integration Division (PMID) of Applied Research Associates (ARA), Inc., has an exciting opportunity for a full-time Senior Drafter working on-site at our Madison, AL facility. A Senior Drafter will provide innovative computer-aided design and drawings based on engineering sketches and proposal specifications. This will include design, development, evaluation, and modification of systems and system-oriented products. The Senior Drafter will analyze customer problems and recommend drafting techniques to satisfy customer needs. Candidate will digitize, edit, and revise engineering drawings of components, parts, circuits, structures and/or assemblies. The complexity of assignments requires exercise of considerable initiative, latitude, independent judgment, and the ability to work independently with only general technical direction.
This position will require passing a national background check. Must be able to obtain and maintain a minimum of a SECRET clearance from the US Department of War.
Base Pay Ranges: From $60,000 - $62,000 annually; it is based on years of experience as a specialized Drafter and knowledge that you may bring to the position.
Responsibilities of a Senior Drafter:
  • Develop design drawings according to engineering sketches and proposal specifications
  • Digitize, edit, and revise engineering drawings of components, parts, circuits, structures and/or assemblies
  • Makes engineering computations, mathematical calculations, determines scales, and prepares or revises specifications
  • Performs calculations needed to solve scaling, dimensioning, and cross section interpolations
  • Sketches rough layout of machine and computes angles, weights, surface areas, dimensions, radii, clearances, tolerances, leverages, and location of holes
  • Work closely with the drafting and engineering team to address any design-related challenges, providing support and adjustments as needed
  • Gathers, maintains, formats, compiles, and manipulates technical data, such as BOMs, product/material data sheets and engineering design changes
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends, drafting techniques, and software advancements, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation in the design process
  • Manage and organize design files, patterns, and technical documentation in a systematic manner to facilitate seamless information sharing
  • Conduct regular quality checks on the final products, ensuring they adhere to the established design specifications and industry standards
  • Asks for supervision for unusual cases
  • Provides intermediate technical support to engineers on a variety of tasks
  • Ability to manage and prioritize numerous assignments

Must Haves as a Senior Drafter:
  • H.S. diploma or equivalent diploma plus advanced training and 5-6 years' working knowledge and experience as a Drafter
  • Proficiency in using the computer aided design and modeling software
  • Possess a strong working knowledge of Solidworks and features in Solidworks drawings environment
  • Experience in producing a drawing package which includes drafting techniques, processes, how a drawing should look, dimensions and tolerances
  • Strong attention to detail and precision in translating designs into accurate technical specifications
  • Capable of performing advanced drafting techniques with intermediate to advanced knowledge of practical fabrication techniques
  • Ability to gather, maintain, format, compile, and manipulate technical data, such as BOMs, product/material data sheets and engineering design changes
  • Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with the engineering, design, and production teams
  • Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Provides solutions and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges
  • A passion for staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies
  • Work is checked upon completion to avoid errors and meet agreed deadlines or timelines
  • May support design team through moderate to advanced additions/changes of model
  • Be physically capable of wearing all required personal protective equipment to include, but not limited to safety glasses, respirator, safety shoes, hearing protection and hand protection as required

Nice if you have the following but not a dealbreaker:
  • Active / current SECRET Clearance from the US Department of War
  • Prior experience as a Drafter in defense or government contractor manufacturing environments
  • Associates Degree
  • Knowledge in electrical and/or hydraulic schematics
  • Solidworks FEA analysis

#CAD #Solidworks #Drafter #CADOperator #Designer
Who is ARA?
Applied Research Associates (ARA) is a 100% employee-owned technology solutions company with more than 2,300 employee-owners across the United States and beyond. Our dedicated team brings deep technical expertise and a passion for solving complex challenges - creating innovative solutions that protect our safety, security, and way of life. At ARA, every project is an opportunity to exceed expectations. We deliver solutions that not only meet mission objectives but unlock new possibilities for the future.
*Learn more about who we are and what we do by going to: www.ara.com
ARA offers competitive benefits that address our employees' needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our ARA Benefits & Employee Owned here.
Interested in applying? Go to ARA Careers for the Senior Drafter position. #LI-AB1
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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