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Mechanical Drafter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Drafter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Mechanical Drafter Benefits and Compensation: * $60,000-$80,000 annual salary, based on experience * Health insurance with 100% of the employee premium paid * 50% of family health insurance premiums ...

New

Mechanical Drafter The Mechanical Drafter creates and modifies detailed drawings for architectural and mechanical products using AutoCAD and Inventor. Approximately 90% of the day is spent producing ...

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We are seeking a Mechanical Drafter to become a part of our team! You will prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery as well as identify areas of improvement to increase efficiency.

Mechanical Drafter

Schenectady, NY · On-site

$70K - $150K/yr

Mechanical Drafter Job #: 5958 Location: Schenectady, NY Category: Construction & Engineering Position Type: Full-time, Permanent Description: Our client is currently seeking a ----Mechanical Drafter ...

New

Mechanical Drafter - Agricultural Equipment Fair Manufacturing Inc. | Yankton, SD | Full-time | $50,000-$65,000 Fair Manufacturing Inc., a third-generation family-owned manufacturer of agricultural ...

Mechanical Drafter

Linden, NJ · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Mechanical Drafter LOCATION: Linden, NJ, USA / Relocating to East Windsor, NJ USA On site 5 days a week Pay Range - $25.00-$30.00 Per hour depending on experience Location & Facility Transition This ...

Mechanical Drafter The Mechanical Drafter supports multidisciplinary engineering projects by developing precise design drawings, coordinating technical requirements with customers, and helping to ...

MECHANICAL DRAFTER As the global industry leader in wear and abrasion resistant steel, JADCO was founded locally in Harmony in 1980 as a family-owned, American manufacturer of supreme quality impact ...

Mechanical Drafter

Algona, IA · On-site

$20 - $31/hr

Actively Hiring! | Mechanical Drafter | Algona, IA | Apply Now! We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Drafter to create and modify detailed 2D and 3D mechanical drawings and models using SolidWorks.

Role: Mechanical Drafter, In-person Company: Roll & Hill LLC Location: Byron Center, Michigan ​ Company Description: Roll & Hill started in 2010 with a clear goal: build an American design ...

New

MECHANICAL DRAFTER As the global industry leader in wear and abrasion resistant steel, JADCO was founded locally in Harmony in 1980 as a family-owned, American manufacturer of supreme quality impact ...

Mechanical Drafter

Algona, IA · On-site

$20 - $31/hr

Actively Hiring! | Mechanical Drafter | Algona, IA | Apply Now! We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Drafter to create and modify detailed 2D and 3D mechanical drawings and models using SolidWorks.

Mechanical Drafter

Champlin, MN · On-site

$35 - $39/hr

We are seeking a Mechanical Drafter to support the design and documentation of low and/or medium voltage switchgear, E-House systems, and related power distribution equipment. This role works closely ...

Mechanical Drafter

Champlin, MN · On-site

$35 - $39/hr

We are seeking a Mechanical Drafter to support the design and documentation of low and/or medium voltage switchgear, E-House systems, and related power distribution equipment. This role works closely ...

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Mechanical Drafter information

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$15

$26

$38

How much do mechanical drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for mechanical drafter in the United States is $26.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mechanical drafter?

A mechanical drafter creates technical drawings for the production of mechanical devices. As a mechanical drafter, your responsibilities include communicating with engineers to understand their specifications and use computer-aided drawing (CAD) software to create precise technical drawings that meet those specifications. You may also examine prototypes and work with engineers to consider and implement modifications.

What is a mechanical drafter?

A Mechanical Drafter is a professional who creates detailed technical drawings and plans used in the manufacturing and assembly of mechanical devices, machinery, and equipment. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce precise diagrams that specify dimensions, materials, and procedures. Mechanical Drafters work closely with engineers and manufacturers to ensure that designs are accurate and meet all functional requirements. Their work plays a critical role in translating engineering ideas into practical instructions for production.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Drafter, you need strong skills in mechanical design, technical drawing, and a solid understanding of drafting standards, usually supported by an associate degree or technical certification in drafting. Proficiency with CAD software (such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Inventor) and familiarity with PLM systems are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills that help ensure accuracy and collaboration. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing precise technical drawings that guide manufacturing and construction processes efficiently.

What are some common challenges mechanical drafters face when working on multidisciplinary engineering teams?

Mechanical Drafters often collaborate with engineers, architects, and other specialists, which can present challenges in aligning design specifications and integrating feedback from multiple disciplines. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, especially when project requirements change or when coordinating with teams using different CAD standards. Staying organized and maintaining clear documentation helps ensure that revisions are tracked and that final drawings accurately reflect the agreed-upon design. Overcoming these challenges provides valuable experience and can open doors to advanced drafting or design engineering roles.

What is the difference between Mechanical Drafter vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical DrafterMechanical Engineer
EducationAssociate degree or technical certificationBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
CertificationsOptional, such as AutoCAD certificationsPE license (optional in some regions)
Work EnvironmentDesign departments, drafting studios, manufacturing firmsDesign, analysis, R&D, manufacturing firms
Primary ResponsibilitiesCreating detailed technical drawings and plansDesigning, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems

Mechanical Drafters focus on producing detailed technical drawings based on engineers' designs, while Mechanical Engineers are involved in designing, analyzing, and overseeing mechanical systems. Both roles often work together but differ in education, responsibilities, and scope of work.

Are mechanical drafters in high demand?

Mechanical drafters are in steady demand due to their role in creating detailed technical drawings for manufacturing, engineering, and construction projects. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as industries continue to require precise technical documentation and CAD skills. Strong proficiency in CAD software and understanding of engineering principles enhance job prospects in this field.

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 positions may start lower, while experienced drafters with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing or engineering environments.

What type of mechanical drafter makes the most money?

Senior mechanical drafters with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and specialized knowledge in fields like HVAC, plumbing, or aerospace tend to earn the highest salaries. Drafters with certifications such as Certified Professional Drafter (CPD) or those working in high-demand industries typically have higher earning potential.

What cities are hiring for Mechanical Drafter jobs?

Cities with the most Mechanical Drafter job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Drafter jobs?

The most popular types of Mechanical Drafter jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Mechanical Drafter jobs?

The top employers for Mechanical Drafter jobs are:

What states have the most Mechanical Drafter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mechanical Drafter jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Drafter jobs?

For Mechanical Drafter jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Drafter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,049 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Mechanical Drafter

Nbutexas

Chicago, IL • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Medical

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Chicago, IL 60632 | $60,000–$80,000 | Full-Time, Onsite

Looking for a drafting role where your drawings actually make it from the screen to the shop and into real-world equipment?

We’re seeking a Mechanical Drafter to join a small, established engineering team supporting specialized pipeline and gas-line equipment. This is a hands-on environment where you’ll work closely with engineering, operations, and leadership to create and maintain production-ready drawings, models, and assemblies.

This is a 100% onsite position in Chicago, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM. Remote and hybrid work are not available.

Mechanical Drafter Benefits and Compensation:
  • $60,000–$80,000 annual salary, based on experience
  • Health insurance with 100% of the employee premium paid
  • 50% of family health insurance premiums paid
  • Profit-sharing opportunity
  • Monday–Friday daytime schedule
  • Stable, established organization with a long-tenured team
  • Direct access to engineering, operations, and senior leadership
  • Hands-on exposure to specialized mechanical equipment and real-world applications
Mechanical Drafter Requirements & Qualifications:
  • Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent training in Mechanical Drafting, Mechanical Design, or a related discipline
  • Experience creating 2D drawings and 3D mechanical models
  • Working knowledge of SolidWorks and AutoCAD
  • Strong understanding of mechanical components, dimensions, materials, fit-ups, and assemblies
  • Ability to read, review, revise, and create detailed production drawings
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills
  • Comfortable working 100% onsite and collaborating directly with engineering and operations

Must Haves:

  • Create detailed part, assembly, and production drawings from concepts, sketches, and existing designs
  • Build and revise 3D models and 2D drawings using SolidWorks and AutoCAD
  • Verify dimensions, materials, component fit-ups, and assembly completeness before drawings are released
  • Research technical information from vendors, catalogs, and product specifications when developing models
  • Work directly with the engineering team to troubleshoot component and product issues
  • Maintain organized relationships between models, assemblies, and drawing files
Mechanical Drafter Preferred Background & Skills:
  • Experience with piping systems, pressure components, mechanical layouts, or industrial equipment
  • Pipeline, natural gas, utility, pressure-vessel, or related industrial experience
  • Familiarity with ASME and/or API standards
  • Experience working with fabricated or welded components
  • Exposure to manufacturing, fabrication, installation, or field operations
  • Experience working in a smaller organization where engineering and operations collaborate closely
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to work through design issues with multiple departments
JOB ID: 180434#post

Cassandra Williams

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