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Structural Drafter Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Hksinc

Structural Drafter II

Chicago, IL · On-site

May perform structural CA tasks assigned by senior engineering staff or Structural Drafting Manager * Prepares bills of material, schedules and assists engineering personnel with formal document ...

New

HKS, Inc.

Structural Drafter II

Chicago, IL · On-site

May perform structural CA tasks assigned by senior engineering staff or Structural Drafting Manager * Prepares bills of material, schedules and assists engineering personnel with formal document ...

Hksinc

Sr. Structural Drafter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

Performs structural CA tasks assigned by senior engineering staff or Structural Drafting Manager including site visitation, field report documentation, implementation documentation review and ...

HKS INC

Structural Drafter II

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75 - $105/hr

Maintains the BIM model and prepares implementation documents while applying the graphics standards and modeling procedures established by the Structural Drafting Manager. Shows an interest and ...

New

Structural

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Support junior engineers, designers, drafters, and technicians as appropriate for the candidate's experience level. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or ...

Structural

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

STRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGIESdevelops and integrates products, engineering support, repair and ... Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, or other drafting/BIM software Soft Skills * Strong verbal and ...

STRUCTURAL

Senior Civil/Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

STRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGIES develops and integrates products and engineering support to provide ... Manage multiple projects from assessment to repair completion, leading teams of engineers, drafters ...

Structural Technologies

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Support junior engineers, designers, drafters, and technicians as appropriate for the candidate's experience level. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or ...

HKS

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Directs the work of structural drafting staff for implementation documentation* Utilizes standard engineering practices and techniques to adjust and correlate data; recognizes and resolves ...

Hksinc

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$84K - $105K/yr

Directs the work of structural drafting staff for implementation documentation * Utilizes standard engineering practices and techniques to adjust and correlate data; recognizes and resolves ...

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All JobsStructural Drafter JobsStructural Drafter Jobs in Chicago, IL

Structural Drafter information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

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How much do structural drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural drafter in Chicago, IL is $30.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $35.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a structural drafter?

A structural drafter creates the final drawings, sketches, and designs for buildings and other structures. As a structural drafter, you use drafting programs to develop these plans. You usually have a specialization, such as drafting bridges, commercial buildings, or docks. Qualifications for this career include an associate or bachelor’s degree in drafting technology, architecture, or civil engineering, as well as a few years of related job experience. It is preferable to have drafting certification and CAD system knowledge. Essential skills and duties include the ability to work independently while executing other people’s ideas, background in math and statistics, familiarity with building codes, and the ability to conceptualize spaces.

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

To excel as a Structural Drafter, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, drafting techniques, and proficiency in reading and creating technical drawings, often supported by an associate degree or technical certification in drafting. Expertise in CAD software (such as AutoCAD, Revit, or MicroStation) and familiarity with building codes and standards are typically required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure accuracy and facilitate teamwork with engineers and architects. These abilities are crucial for producing reliable construction documents that meet project specifications and safety requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by structural drafters when collaborating with engineers and architects on complex projects?

Structural Drafters often encounter challenges in ensuring their drawings accurately reflect both the engineer’s technical requirements and the architect’s design intent. Effective communication is key, as changes in one discipline can impact structural details and necessitate quick revisions. Managing multiple revisions, integrating feedback, and coordinating with project teams require strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Staying updated on building codes and software standards also helps drafters produce compliant and high-quality drawings.

What is the difference between Structural Drafter vs Civil Drafter?

AspectStructural DrafterCivil Drafter
CertificationsTypically requires drafting certifications or associate degrees in drafting or engineering technologySimilar certifications, often with additional civil engineering coursework
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily on building frameworks, bridges, and structural componentsFocuses on infrastructure projects like roads, drainage, and site plans
Industry UsageCommon in construction, architecture, and structural engineering firmsPrevalent in civil engineering, municipal planning, and infrastructure companies
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for roles involving structural design and draftingCompared for civil engineering projects and site planning

While both Structural Drafters and Civil Drafters create technical drawings, Structural Drafters specialize in building frameworks and structural components, whereas Civil Drafters focus on infrastructure and site development. Their roles overlap in drafting skills and certifications, but they serve different project types within the construction and engineering industries.

More about Structural Drafter jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Structural Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Structural Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Structural Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Structural Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Structural Drafter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Drafter job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,413 per year, or $31 per hour.

Structural Drafter II

Hksinc

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Overview:

Contributes to project teams and works on a variety of projects in various stages of design and construction. Maintains the BIM model and prepares implementation documents while applying the graphics standards and modeling procedures established by the Structural Drafting Manager. Shows an interest and dedication in acquiring new skills, greater understanding of job expectations and contributing to project solutions.

Responsibilities:

  • Creates or revises implementation documents from markups and/or instructions and reviews completed tasks at key intervals for accuracy/completeness under moderate supervision
  • Performs effectively as a team member during design and/or construction phases
  • Maintains active awareness of the production schedule for responsible task(s)
  • May perform structural CA tasks assigned by senior engineering staff or Structural Drafting Manager
  • Prepares bills of material, schedules and assists engineering personnel with formal document transmittals and construction issues
  • Assists with communication with other disciplines to ensure incorporation of all information into project requirements
  • Participates in team meetings to discuss project issues, coordination with other disciplines and technical issues

Qualifications:

Education and Experience

  • Associate's or professional trade certification in related field or relevant experience
  • Typically 5+ years of experience

Licenses and Certifications

  • EIT certification preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Advanced - expert-level experience, knowledge or skills

Intermediate - experience, knowledge or skills required to produce high-quality solutions or work

Basic - familiar with primary concepts or capabilities and may perform elementary functions depending on role

  • Basic knowledge of Revit & BIM required
  • Basic knowledge of MS Office Suite required
  • Basic knowledge of building codes, material design standards, select structural standards, constructability, etc. required
  • Basic knowledge of integrated design engineering building systems and QA/QC process required
  • Intermediate ability to communicate in a clear, concise and professional manner both verbally and in writing required
  • Intermediate ability to problem solve and collaborate on innovative solutions required
  • Intermediate ability to work in team environment required
  • Intermediate ability to work on multiple projects at the same time required
  • Intermediate ability to effectively meet deadlines at expected quality required

Base Salary Range: $73 - $80k annually - Chicago location only
The estimate displayed represents the general base salary range of candidates hired in the Chicago location only. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range based on the location of the role. Factors that may be used to determine your actual salary may include internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
HKS offers a comprehensive total compensation & benefits package with health, dental, and vision care coverage, 401(k) plans, life & AD&D insurance, short/long term disability plans, paid days off (sick leave, parental leave, vacation), and much more for benefits-eligible employees. To learn more about our benefits visit this page.

If you currently work for HKS, please submit your application via the Internal Careers Portal.

HKS is an EEO/AA Employer: M/F/Disabled/Veteran

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