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Mechanical Design Drafting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apply basic mechanical drafting principles and engineering concepts to support design solutions. * Implement Standard Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) practices in accordance with ASME ...

Apply basic mechanical drafting principles and engineering concepts to support design solutions. * Implement Standard Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) practices in accordance with ASME ...

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How much do mechanical design drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 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.

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.

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 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:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Design Drafting job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 29% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,322 per year, or $30 per hour.
Mechanical Designer / Drafter II - AutoCAD

Mechanical Designer / Drafter II - AutoCAD

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Norwich, CT

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

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.