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Lead Drafter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JRG Partners

Design Manager

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$120K/yr

Design Manager / Lead Drafter ?? Pennsylvania (Hybrid) A rapidly growing architectural fabrication company is seeking a Design Manager / Lead Drafter to play a key leadership role in its expanding ...

JRG Partners

Fabrication Design Manager

Newark, NJ · On-site

$120K/yr

Design Manager / Lead Drafter ?? Pennsylvania (Hybrid) A rapidly growing architectural fabrication company is seeking a Design Manager / Lead Drafter to play a key leadership role in its expanding ...

Team Builder Recruiting

Structural Drafter II

Leola, PA · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Lead drafting efforts on assigned projects by coordinating work, mentoring team members when appropriate, and helping maintain WoodCore Engineering's drafting standards. * Continuously improve your ...

SARGENTI

Lead Draftsperson

Plano, TX

$24 - $26/hr

Lead Draftsperson Summary/Objective: Reporting to a member of the project management team, the incumbent will be responsible for the production Architectural Drawings/Models in AutoCAD and/or Revit ...

BINSWANGER ENTERPRISES LLC

Drafter Lead-

Memphis, TN · On-site

Position Overview The Drafter Lead works hand in hand with the Engineering Manager to operate the drafting department. The Lead is the department's first line of technical authority and quality ...

SARGENTI

Lead Draftsperson

Paramus, NJ

$24 - $26/hr

Experience drafting construction documents preferred. Must be comfortable in a support role and possess the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to multitask and produce accurate ...

SARGENTI

Lead Draftsperson

Pasadena, CA

$24 - $26/hr

Experience drafting construction documents preferred. Must be comfortable in a support role and possess the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to multitask and produce accurate ...

SARGENTI

Lead Draftsperson

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Experience drafting construction documents preferred. Must be comfortable in a support role and possess the ability to work with minimal supervision. Must be able to multitask and produce accurate ...

Ajulia Executive Search

Drafting Manager

Bossier City, LA · On-site

$83K - $100K/yr

Lead, mentor, and develop a drafting/design team through coaching, training, performance management, and technical guidance * Drive expertise in 2D/3D CAD tools (Inventor and AutoCAD Mechanical ...

HMT LLC

Drafter

Tomball, TX · On-site

$45K - $70K/yr

Working under the direction of the Project Lead, the Drafter learns and applies HMT company standards, develops proficiency with industry codes and drafting tools, and progressively takes on greater ...

Kovach

Senior Drafter

Chandler, AZ · On-site

Lead complex and high-profile drafting projects from project turnover through fabrication and completion. * Maintain comprehensive knowledge of project scope, façade systems, specifications ...

SolveNow

Drafter SR

Forest Park, GA · On-site

Drafter SR Forest Park, GA, USA The Drafter SR position requires 10+ years of drafting experience ... ability to lead a small and medium sized project, commitment to quality, safety, and design ...

BINSWANGER ENTERPRISES LLC

Drafter Lead-

Memphis, TN · On-site +1

Position Overview The Drafter Lead works hand in hand with the Engineering Manager to operate the drafting department. The Lead is the department's first line of technical authority and quality ...

SolveNow

Drafter SR

Forest Park, GA · On-site

Drafter SR Forest Park, GA, USA The Drafter SR position requires 10+ years of drafting experience ... ability to lead a small and medium sized project, commitment to quality, safety, and design ...

EnSiteUSA

Design Drafter

Lexington, KY · On-site

Assists Lead Piping Designers in preparing plot plans, enlarged piping plans, sections and detail ... Drafting Standards and specifications as required by clients. * Assists in the production of ...

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Lead Drafter information

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$26

$43

How much do lead drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead drafter in the United States is $26.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.15 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead drafter?

Lead Drafters are professionals responsible for overseeing the creation of detailed technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects. They supervise a team of drafters, ensure accuracy and compliance with industry standards, and often collaborate closely with architects, engineers, and project managers. In addition to technical drafting, Lead Drafters also manage project timelines, coordinate workflow, and provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff. Their expertise is crucial for turning complex concepts into precise, buildable plans.

How does a lead drafter typically collaborate with engineers and architects on large-scale projects?

Lead Drafters play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between design concepts and technical documentation. They work closely with engineers and architects by interpreting sketches, ensuring drawings align with project specifications, and coordinating revisions based on feedback from multiple stakeholders. Regular meetings and digital collaboration tools are commonly used to streamline communication, prevent errors, and keep projects on schedule. This collaborative environment allows Lead Drafters to influence the quality and accuracy of the final construction documents and fosters strong professional relationships within multidisciplinary teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead drafter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Drafter, you need advanced technical drafting skills, a strong understanding of engineering or architectural principles, and experience with design standards, typically supported by an associate degree or certification in drafting. Expertise in CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SolidWorks, as well as familiarity with project management tools, is essential. Strong attention to detail, leadership abilities, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure the accuracy and efficiency of design projects, successful team coordination, and the delivery of high-quality technical drawings.

What is the difference between Lead Drafter vs Draftsman?

AspectLead DrafterDraftsman
CredentialsTypically requires experience and sometimes certifications in CAD softwareUsually has similar technical skills, often with less experience required
Work EnvironmentLeads drafting teams, reviews work, and coordinates projectsPerforms drafting tasks under supervision, often in an office setting
Industry UsageUsed in engineering, architecture, and construction firms for project oversightCommonly employed for creating technical drawings in various industries

The main difference between a Lead Drafter and a Draftsman lies in their responsibilities and leadership roles. The Lead Drafter oversees drafting teams, reviews work, and coordinates project efforts, while the Draftsman primarily focuses on creating technical drawings under supervision. Both roles require strong CAD skills, but the Lead Drafter typically has more experience and leadership duties.

Are lead drafters still in demand?

Lead drafters are still in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and construction, where detailed technical drawings are essential. The role requires proficiency with CAD software and knowledge of building codes, and employment opportunities often depend on project volume and industry growth.

Do lead drafters make a lot of money?

Lead drafters typically earn higher salaries than entry-level drafters due to their experience and leadership responsibilities. Salaries vary by industry, location, and company size but generally range from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, with some earning more with specialized skills or certifications. The role often requires proficiency in CAD software and strong technical knowledge.
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The top searched job categories for Lead Drafter jobs are:

Lead Drafter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Drafter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,861 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Design Manager

JRG Partners

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Design Manager / Lead Drafter
?? Pennsylvania (Hybrid)
A rapidly growing architectural fabrication company is seeking a Design Manager / Lead Drafter to play a key leadership role in its expanding design and engineering operations. This is a hands-on role that combines technical drafting expertise with design management and team coordination responsibilities.
About the Role
This position requires someone who excels in both hands-on drafting and managing the design process across multiple teams. You will produce detailed architectural and fabrication drawings, develop 3D models, and coordinate design efforts with internal teams and engineering consultants. You will be a key leader as the company expands, helping guide design operations and ensure continued success.
Key Responsibilities
  • Produce detailed architectural, fabrication, and shop drawings using AutoCAD and SketchUp
  • Develop 3D models, renderings, and design visualizations
  • Manage design workflows and coordinate with engineering consultants for structural review
  • Serve as the primary design liaison between sales, engineering, estimating, fabrication, and installation teams
  • Lead design reviews and resolve conflicts between design intent, structural requirements, and manufacturability
  • Incorporate engineering feedback, maintain version control, and ensure up-to-date drawing sets
  • Provide technical support to fabrication and installation teams throughout the project lifecycle
  • Support nationwide scaling efforts by helping develop processes, standards, and mentoring future team members

Qualifications
  • 5+ years of experience in architectural drafting, façade systems, metal fabrication, or related design disciplines
  • Expert proficiency in AutoCAD and SketchUp (Required)
  • Strong understanding of structural concepts and building components
  • Experience coordinating with engineering consultants and cross-functional internal teams
  • Ability to read and interpret architectural and structural drawings
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
  • Leadership mindset with interest in growing into a nationwide design team management role

Preferred Skills
  • Experience with Revit, SolidWorks, or Rhino
  • Background in canopy systems, building envelopes, architectural metals, or custom fabrication
  • Familiarity with building codes, ADA requirements, and construction documentation

Why This Role?
  • Be part of a high-growth company scaling nationwide
  • Take a key leadership role as the company expands, guiding design operations and ensuring continued success
  • Blend creative architectural design with hands-on technical drafting and real-world fabrication
  • Career advancement opportunities into senior design leadership or engineering management
  • Competitive salary, benefits, and a collaborative work culture

Apply