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Structural Steel Drafting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Max Manufacturing

Structural Steel Detailer

Bend, OR

Minimum of 2+ years of 3D drafting experience in structural steel detailing * Knowledge of detailing and fabrication standards (AISC, AWS, ASTM, EN or equivalent) * Experience producing steel shop ...

Max Manufacturing

Structural Steel Detailer

Bend, OR

Minimum of 2+ years of 3D drafting experience in structural steel detailing * Knowledge of detailing and fabrication standards (AISC, AWS, ASTM, EN or equivalent) * Experience producing steel shop ...

Max Manufacturing

Structural Steel Detailer

Bend, OR · On-site

Minimum of 2+ years of 3D drafting experience in structural steel detailing * Knowledge of detailing and fabrication standards (AISC, AWS, ASTM, EN or equivalent) * Experience producing steel shop ...

GMF Steel

Structural Steel Erection Estimator

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Drafting experience, preferred * AutoCAD experience, preferred * Ability to read and understand ... GMF Steel Group core sectors of the Structural Steel market include Amusement Parks, Stadiums ...

John Charles Search

Structural Drafter

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives within the drafting and detailing function. About the Company Our client is an established and growing specialist within the structural steel sector ...

Daigle Brothers

Be Seen First

Structural Steel Detail Manager

Tomahawk, WI · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

... structural and miscellaneous steel detailing department ... You will lead an in-house team of detailers and manage external drafting vendors to transform ...

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How much do structural steel drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural steel drafting in the United States is $30.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Structural Steel Drafter, you need strong skills in technical drawing, structural engineering principles, and proficiency in reading blueprints, typically supported by a relevant associate degree or certification in drafting. Mastery of CAD software such as AutoCAD, Tekla Structures, or Revit is essential, along with familiarity with industry standards and material specifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with engineers and fabricators are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate, safe, and efficient design and fabrication of steel structures in construction projects.

How much do structural steel detailers make in the US?

Structural steel detailers in the US typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Experienced detailers with proficiency in CAD software and knowledge of building codes may earn higher salaries, especially in regions with high construction activity.

How much does a structural draftsman make?

A structural draftsman typically earns between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced draftsmen with advanced skills in CAD software can earn higher salaries.

What is structural steel drafting?

Structural steel drafting is the process of creating detailed drawings and plans for steel frameworks used in construction projects, such as buildings, bridges, and industrial structures. Drafters use specialized computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce precise diagrams that specify the size, placement, and connection details of steel components. These drawings are essential for fabricators and construction teams to accurately assemble the steel structures according to engineering and safety standards.

What type of drafter makes the most money?

In structural steel drafting, senior drafters with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and certifications tend to earn the highest salaries. Specialized roles such as lead drafters or those working on complex projects often have higher pay compared to entry-level positions.

What are some common challenges faced by structural steel drafters when coordinating with engineers and fabrication teams?

Structural steel drafters often encounter challenges ensuring that their detailed drawings align with engineers' specifications and are practical for fabrication and installation. Miscommunications can arise if design intent is unclear or if changes occur late in the process, requiring drafters to update drawings quickly. Frequent collaboration with engineers and fabrication teams is essential to resolve discrepancies, address constructability issues, and ensure that all parties are working from the most current set of drawings. Strong attention to detail and proactive communication help overcome these challenges and keep projects on track.

What does a structural draftsman do?

A structural draftsman creates detailed technical drawings and plans for steel structures used in construction projects. They use CAD software to develop accurate blueprints, ensuring designs meet engineering specifications and safety standards. Their work supports the fabrication and erection of structural steel components on-site.

What is the difference between Structural Steel Drafting vs Structural Steel Detailing?

AspectStructural Steel DraftingStructural Steel Detailing
CredentialsDrafting certifications, CAD proficiencyDetailing certifications, CAD skills
Work EnvironmentArchitectural and engineering offices, construction sitesFabrication shops, construction sites, engineering firms
Industry UsageDesign phase, initial draftingFabrication, shop drawings, installation

Structural Steel Drafting focuses on creating initial design drawings and plans for steel structures, primarily in the early design phase. Structural Steel Detailing involves developing detailed fabrication and erection drawings used directly by fabricators and installers. While both roles require CAD skills and industry knowledge, drafting emphasizes conceptual design, whereas detailing emphasizes precise fabrication instructions.

More about Structural Steel Drafting jobs
What states have the most Structural Steel Drafting jobs? States with the most job openings for Structural Steel Drafting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Structural Steel Drafting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Steel Drafting jobs are:
Structural Steel Drafting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Steel Drafting job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,479 per year, or $30 per hour.

Structural Steel Detailer

Primary Search Partners

Boston, MA

$75K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Structural Steel Detailer – Commercial Retrofits & New Build Design

Boston, MA | Full-Time | Office-Based

Position Summary

A growing structural systems firm is seeking a detail-oriented Structural Steel Detailer to produce and coordinate shop drawings, framing plans, and fabrication details for steel structures. This role offers a direct impact on the construction process—collaborating with engineers, fabricators, and erectors to bring projects from concept to completion.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in technical drafting, values accuracy, and enjoys solving complex steel detailing challenges in a collaborative, design-build environment.

We’re a professional yet close-knit team that prioritizes clarity, quality, and long-term growth. If you’re organized, strong-willed, and committed to precision, this could be your next step.

Basic Qualifications

2–3 years of experience producing steel framing plans and fabrication details
Associate’s degree in Engineering (minimum); Bachelor’s preferred
Proficiency in AutoCAD drafting
Familiarity with MS Word and Excel
Strong communication skills and ability to work in a team environment
Ability to interpret contract documents and resolve framing situations

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with SDS/2 or other 3D drafting software
Background in detailing CMU, foundations, and metal stud systems alongside steel framing
Problem-solving ability to address complex structural detailing issues
Organized, clear communicator with a professional presence

Key Responsibilities

Prepare accurate shop drawings and steel framing plans for commercial projects
Detail steel framing components with structural accuracy and constructability in mind
Collaborate with engineers, project managers, fabricators, and erectors to ensure coordinated results
Develop solutions within a design-build environment to support real-world construction
Create structural plans for foundations, CMU, and related components in conjunction with steel framing
Participate in team reviews to uphold detailing standards and project deadlines

What Makes This Role Stand Out

Career Growth: Direct involvement in the design-build process with advancement potential
Impactful Work: Your drawings will directly guide fabrication and erection in the field
Stability: Consistent project pipeline and strong client relationships
Benefits Package: 401(k), medical, vision, and life insurance coverage
Collaborative Team: Work alongside experienced engineers and detailers who value professionalism and execution

We are actively hiring — interviews are moving quickly.

Apply now by submitting your resume. Please include relevant project and software experience to help us expedite review.