1

Technical Illustrator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Knowledge of technical illustrations * Experience with document layouts * Understanding of accessibility requirements * Knowledge of documentation workflows Education: * Associate's degree Work ...

Knowledge of technical illustrations * Experience with document layouts * Understanding of accessibility requirements * Knowledge of documentation workflows Education: * Associate's degree Work ...

Knowledge of technical illustrations * Experience with document layouts * Understanding of accessibility requirements * Knowledge of documentation workflows Education: * Associate's degree Work ...

Be Seen First

The ideal candidate will be able to review electrical drawings and technical documentation, understand switchgear and related equipment, develop shutdown and breaker-isolation procedures, coordinate ...

Urgent

Junior Technical Writer

Columbia, MD · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Develop graphical representations of complex processes and collaborate with artists to develop technical illustrations * Perform reviews and assure the quality of all written deliverables in support ...

Develop graphical representations of complex processes and collaborate with artists to develop technical illustrations * Perform reviews and assure the quality of all written deliverables in support ...

Solutions Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$71 - $93.75/hr

The ideal candidate will have strong proficiency in technical illustration and expert knowledge of cloud services, along with experience in designing and deploying cloud business software at scale.

Design and develop infographics, technical illustrations, and data visualizations. * Create graphics for executive presentations, reports, publications, and marketing materials. * Produce digital and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Technical Illustrator information

See Washington salary details

$5

$31

$41

How much do technical illustrator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for technical illustrator in Washington is $31.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.41 and $37.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a technical illustrator?

A technical illustrator creates graphics and other images for technical publications and materials. As a technical illustrator, your primary duties include reading and analyzing the technical information, developing an outline of needed illustrations, and creating drawings and graphics that precisely communicate the written information. A technical illustrator career requires excellent analytical and organizational skills. Strong computer skills are a must as most drawings are done using graphic design software and programs. You work closely with the technical writer to ensure that you meet all client goals.

What are the typical challenges faced by technical illustrators when translating complex technical information into visual content?

Technical Illustrators often encounter the challenge of accurately depicting intricate technical concepts and machinery for audiences with varying levels of expertise. Balancing clarity and detail is crucial, as illustrations need to be precise enough for engineers yet accessible to non-technical stakeholders. Collaborating closely with engineers, designers, and technical writers is common, ensuring that visuals are consistent with project specifications and meet industry standards. Staying up-to-date with evolving software tools and illustration techniques also plays a key role in overcoming these challenges.

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

To thrive as a Technical Illustrator, you need strong artistic ability, a solid grasp of engineering or scientific concepts, and proficiency in visual communication, often supported by a degree in graphic design, technical illustration, or a related field. Familiarity with software such as Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, and 3D modeling tools, as well as knowledge of industry-specific standards, is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to interpret and simplify complex information are essential soft skills. These skills ensure that technical illustrations are accurate, comprehensible, and meet the needs of engineers, manufacturers, and end-users.

What is the difference between Technical Illustrator vs Technical Artist?

AspectTechnical IllustratorTechnical Artist
Required credentialsDesign or illustration degree, technical drawing skillsArt or technical degree, knowledge of 3D software
Work environmentDesign studios, engineering firms, manufacturingGame development, animation, software companies
Employer and industry usageEngineering, manufacturing, product designVideo game, film, interactive media
Common search intentCreating detailed technical illustrationsIntegrating art and technology in digital projects

While both roles involve technical skills and visual communication, Technical Illustrators focus on creating precise technical drawings and illustrations for manuals, engineering, and manufacturing. Technical Artists, on the other hand, bridge art and technology in digital media, working on visual effects, shaders, and asset integration in game and software development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Illustrator jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Technical Illustrator jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Technical Illustrator jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Technical Illustrator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Technical Illustrator jobs in WA?

For Technical Illustrator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Technical Illustrator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,734 per year, or $31.6 per hour.

CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Specialist

West Mclean, VA • Hybrid

SMS DATA PRODUCTS GROUP, INC
IT Services • 501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

SMS is hiring a CAD Specialist to support our Base Infrastructure (BIM) contract. This position will create and maintain Computer-Aided Design (CAD) drawings, network topology diagrams, and technical
illustrations supporting network design, documentation, and operational requirements. This position is a hybrid position with work being remote, on base for surveys or at our office in McLean, VA as needed for meetings, work sessions, etc.

Since 1976, SMS has specialized in modernizing legacy IT and sustaining complex enterprise environments for federal agencies. With the goal of building long-term partnerships with our customers, we invest in our employees by providing the training, tools, and support they need to keep critical missions operational, improve performance, and reduce risk. SMS is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, with offices and on-site operations at customer locations throughout the United States. For additional information on SMS, visit www.sms.com.

Submit your resume today!

Job Responsibilities

  • Create and maintain Computer-Aided Design drawings, network topology diagrams, and technical illustrations supporting network design, documentation, and operational requirements
  • Develop detailed CAD drawings for Outside Plant fiber optic infrastructure, Inside Plant structured cabling, and network equipment layouts
  • Create network topology diagrams in DoDAF format including OV-1, OV-2, SV-1, and SV-2 viewpoints
  • Prepare as-built documentation incorporating redline changes from installations
  • Develop facility layout drawings showing Communications Equipment Location configurations
  • Create technical illustrations for proposals, documentation, and presentations
  • Maintain drawing libraries and version control
  • Coordinate with engineers and technical personnel gathering information for drawing development
  • Ensure drawings comply with technical standards and Government requirements
  • Utilize AutoCAD, Microsoft Visio, and other CAD/diagramming tools
  • Update drawings reflecting network changes and modifications

Required Qualifications

  • Possesses Associate's degree in drafting, CAD technology, or related field
  • Minimum 4 years of CAD technician experience.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD, Visio, and network diagramming tools required.
  • Some travel may be required for his position (5% or less)
  • DoD Secret security clearance required or the ability to successfully pass a background check and obtain an interim Secret clearance.

SMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Req # 2026-5410