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Structural Steel Drafting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate degree or equivalent experience in drafting, detailing, design, architecture, construction engineering, or fabrication * 3-5+ years of experience in structural steel detailing * Experience ...

Testing Procedures : Conduct routine observations of structural steel and reinforcing steel ... Engage in drafting and other administrative duties as required; Maintain organization of field ...

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Draft inspection reports for review by supervisor and/or project manager, and to be submitted to ... ICC certification (Reinforced Concrete, Spray-applied Fireproofing, Structural Masonry, Prestressed ...

Configure structural projects in CAD/modeling tools (AutoCAD, Advance Steel, Tekla Structures, Revit Structure / SDS2) and set drafting standards * 2D drafting: general-arrangement (GA) drawings ...

Prepare and review structural steel detailing drawings. * Coordinate with engineers, drafters, fabrication shops, internal customers, and project teams. * Answer fabrication shop questions and help ...

Testing Procedures : Conduct routine observations of structural steel and reinforcing steel ... Engage in drafting and other administrative duties as required; Maintain organization of field ...

Drafting Technician

Lafayette, IN · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

The Kelly Group is seeking a Drafting Technician for its Lafayette, Indiana, facility. Candidates ... structural steel fabrication, and a keen attention for detail.This position requires.

Experience with structural steel preferred and structural steel drafting experience is beneficial. Proficient skills in Microsoft Office products (including Excel, Outlook, and Word), AutoCAD, and ER ...

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Structural Steel Drafting information

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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:
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.
Technical Designer / Structural Drafter

Technical Designer / Structural Drafter

YESCO

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday


YESCO rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


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Location:Salt Lake City, UtahJob Type:Full timeJob Title:Technical Designer / Structural DrafterJob Description:Build the Largest Sign Structures in North America

Are you an exceptional CAD designer who enjoys solving complex design challenges? Do you take pride in creating clean, accurate fabrication drawings and 3D models? If so, we'd like to meet you.

YESCO is one of the world's leading sign companies, designing, manufacturing, and installing iconic signs throughout North America. Our Engineering Department is seeking an experiencedSenior Technical Designer / Structural Drafterto help design custom structural steel sign systems, including digital billboards, pylons, monuments, scoreboards, and other large-scale specialty structures.

This is not a production drafting position. We are looking for someone who enjoys engineering, understands how things are built, and wants to play a key role in developing innovative structural solutions.

What You'll Do
  • Develop detailed 3D models and fabrication drawings for custom structural steel sign systems.

  • Create shop drawings for welded steel assemblies, plates, connections, and foundations.

  • Work closely with licensed structural engineers to develop safe, economical designs.

  • Produce accurate bills of material and fabrication documentation.

  • Coordinate designs with manufacturing, project management, and field installation teams.

  • Review and incorporate customer and architectural requirements.

  • Help improve drafting standards and engineering workflows.

  • Participate in developing design automation using Autodesk Inventor, iLogic, and parametric modeling.

We're Looking For Someone Who
  • Has exceptional 3D visualization skills.

  • Enjoys solving complex geometric and structural problems.

  • Thinks beyond simply drawing lines and understands how products are manufactured and assembled.

  • Takes ownership of producing high-quality work with minimal supervision.

  • Is organized, detail-oriented, and committed to continuous improvement.

  • Enjoys collaborating with engineers while contributing creative ideas.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 5+ years of professional CAD drafting or mechanical design experience.

  • Advanced proficiency with Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, or similar 3D CAD software.

  • Experience creating fabrication drawings for structural steel or welded assemblies.

  • Strong understanding of manufacturing processes including welding, forming, and steel fabrication.

  • Ability to interpret engineering calculations and apply engineering concepts.

  • Experience with weldments, sheet metal, and large assemblies.

  • Experience creating bills of material and fabrication documentation.

  • Familiarity with Autodesk Inventor Frame Generator and iLogic is highly desirable.

Bonus Qualifications
  • Structural steel detailing experience.

  • Experience with sign structures, industrial equipment, cranes, material handling systems, or heavy equipment.

  • Experience with parametric modeling and design automation.

  • Familiarity with finite element analysis or engineering software.

  • Experience integrating CAD with engineering calculations and configurable product design.

Why YESCO?

You'll work alongside licensed structural engineers on some of the most recognizable sign structures in the country. Every project is unique, offering opportunities to solve new engineering challenges while expanding your technical skills.

We are investing heavily in modern engineering tools, including 3D modeling, configurable product development, and CAD automation. The right candidate will have the opportunity to help shape the future of our engineering and drafting processes.

If you're passionate about design, enjoy tackling challenging projects, and want to build structures that become landmarks, we'd love to hear from you.


We maintainadrug free workplace.We do test for marijuana. Young Electric Sign Company is an EEO/AA employer. We welcome all qualified jobseekers. Jobseekers will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic data, religion or other legally protected status.


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About YESCO

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our mission since 1920 “Provide our customers with signs and services of the highest quality and the greatest possible value. Provide good jobs, working conditions and benefits for our employees. Accomplish our objectives with a fair profit to YESCO.” Today, the third and fourth generations of the founder’s family continue the work of leading the company forward, maintaining the legacy of light that began more than a century ago. YESCO’s management team is known for well-organized, solutions-oriented operations. Our values-driven philosophy, combined with a longstanding commitment to doing things right, means that all customers — regardless of the size of their projects — are treated with the integrity and respect they deserve.

Industry

Marketing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1920