ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Mechanical Design Drafting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HGA

Mechanical Engineer

Ruston, LA · On-site

Participate/Assist in multi-discipline Engineering, Design / Drafting package squad checks. * Perform vendor data review of equipment and components in their assigned area. * Support Mechanical ...

HGA

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Ruston, LA · On-site

$84K - $111K/yr

Participate in multi-discipline Engineering, Design / Drafting package squad checks. * Perform vendor data review of equipment and components in their assigned area. * Support Mechanical Design Lead ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMechanical Design Drafting Jobs

Mechanical Design Drafting information

See salary details

$14

$29

$46

How much do mechanical design drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanical design drafting in the United States is $29.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do mechanical drafters make?

Mechanical drafters typically earn a median annual salary of around $55,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level drafters may start lower, while those with advanced skills or certifications can earn higher wages, especially in specialized fields or with CAD software proficiency.

What is mechanical design drafting?

Mechanical design drafting is the process of creating detailed technical drawings and plans used to manufacture mechanical parts, assemblies, and systems. These drawings serve as a visual guide for engineers, machinists, and fabricators, ensuring that each component is made to precise specifications. Mechanical design drafters use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce accurate representations, including dimensions, materials, and assembly instructions. Their work is essential in industries such as automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and engineering.

How much do MEP drafters make?

MEP drafters typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They often use CAD software and collaborate with engineers to create detailed mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plans.

Is mechanical drafting a good career?

Mechanical drafting is a viable career that involves creating detailed technical drawings for manufacturing and engineering projects, often requiring proficiency in CAD software. It offers opportunities in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and industrial equipment, with a typical work environment in offices or manufacturing plants. Success in this field often depends on technical skills, attention to detail, and relevant certifications or training.

What are some common challenges faced by mechanical design drafters when working on collaborative projects?

Mechanical design drafters often work closely with engineers, manufacturers, and other drafters, which can lead to challenges in maintaining consistent documentation and ensuring everyone is aligned on design updates. Communication is key, as changes in project specifications or timelines can impact the accuracy of the drawings and require quick revisions. Staying organized and using collaborative design tools helps minimize errors and streamline feedback, ensuring that all team members are working with the most current information.

What does a mechanical design drafter do?

A mechanical design drafter creates detailed technical drawings and plans for mechanical components and systems using CAD software. They interpret engineering specifications, ensure drawings meet industry standards, and collaborate with engineers and manufacturers to facilitate production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mechanical Design Drafter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Design Drafter, you need strong skills in technical drawing, mechanical engineering principles, and a relevant associate degree or certification. Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Inventor is typically required, along with familiarity with industry standards like ASME Y14.5. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help drafters collaborate with engineers and ensure design accuracy. These skills ensure that mechanical components are accurately represented, manufacturable, and meet required specifications, which is critical for successful engineering projects.
More about Mechanical Design Drafting jobs
What cities are hiring for Mechanical Design Drafting jobs? Cities with the most Mechanical Design Drafting job openings:
What states have the most Mechanical Design Drafting jobs? States with the most job openings for Mechanical Design Drafting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Design Drafting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Design Drafting jobs are:
Mechanical Design Drafting jobs near you
Mechanical Designer / Drafter II - AutoCAD

Mechanical Designer / Drafter II - AutoCAD

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Norwich, CT • On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Overview
The Mechanical Designer/Drafter II position supports mechanical design and drafting efforts for United States Navy submarine programs and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV)s. The Mechanical Designer/Drafter II develops and updates technical drawings and models, conducts ship checks, and assists with shipboard installation and mechanical design documentation in accordance with Navy, DoD, and company standards.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct ship checks on United States Navy submarines to collect field data and verify existing configurations.
  • Research submarine construction using ship construction drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
  • Collaborate directly with Mechanical Engineers to create 3D solid models supporting optimization of mechanical designs for shipboard installations.
  • Develop 2D mechanical component and assembly-level drawings in accordance with applicable standards.
  • Develop, update, and maintain Lists of Material (LOM).
  • Support senior Mechanical Designer/Drafter personnel with development of shipboard installation and arrangement drawings.
  • Apply mechanical drafting principles and engineering concepts to support design solutions.
  • Implement Standard Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) practices in accordance with ASME Y14.5 standards.
  • Perform self-checks of drawings and models to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance prior to submittal.
  • Participate in internal design reviews and incorporate review comments into assigned drawings.
  • Maintain organized electronic design files and adhere to configuration management and document control processes.
  • Communicate effectively with engineers, designers, and program team members to clarify design intent and task requirements.
  • Track assigned tasks, meet schedule-driven deliverables, and provide status updates to senior design staff or project leaders.
  • Follow company quality management system (QMS) procedures and support continuous improvement efforts.
  • Comply with all safety, security, export control, and confidentiality requirements when working in office, shipyard, and onboard environments.

Qualifications
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) Secret Clearance.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required for the purpose of obtaining and holding a U.S. security clearance.
  • High School Diploma or GED, plus a Computer-Aided Design/Drafting Certificate.

Experience Requirements
  • 3 years minimum of business-related experience in one or more of the following:
  • Creating 2D drawings using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software
  • Creating 3D drawings using solid modeling design software

Technical Skills
  • Developed understanding of mechanical drafting principles, manufacturing processes, and drawing conventions.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering sketches, specifications, and technical drawings.
  • Experience with Autodesk AutoCAD® and Autodesk Inventor® is desired but not required. SOLIDWORKS® experience is acceptable.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.
  • Experience using Adobe PDF tools.

Physical Requirements
  • Physically capable of conducting ship checks aboard United States Navy submarines.
  • Comfortable working in confined spaces.
  • Ability to climb vertical ladders ranging from 20 to 25 feet unassisted.

Work Environment
  • Work may be performed in office, shipyard, and onboard submarine environments.
  • May require travel to Navy facilities and shipyards.

Pay Transparency Statement
AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $27.00/Hr. - USD $30/Hr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.
EEO Statement
EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran Status

Apply