CAD DRAFTER JOB DESCRIPTION

A CAD Drafter translates engineering intent into manufacturable reality. The drawings this role produces carry GD and T callouts, tolerance stack-up values, and ASME Y14.5 specifications that machinists and fabricators rely on to hold tolerances within thousandths of an inch. One set of misdimensioned drawings can trigger a costly Engineering Change Order, delay a production run, or push a part outside AS9100 quality conformance. Within a manufacturing engineering team, the CAD Drafter owns the formal drawing record from concept markup through release, answering to design engineers and coordinating directly with machine shops and Quality teams.

As the CAD Drafter, you translate engineer-approved concepts and redline markups into precise 2D and 3D drawings that meet ASME, ISO, and customer-specific documentation standards, enabling parts and assemblies to move from design into compliant production. You sit within the engineering or product development function, working alongside design engineers, Quality, Production, and external suppliers to maintain accurate drawing libraries and support Engineering Change Request cycles.

Career Impact: Producing drawings to ASME Y14.5 and managing Bills of Materials within a PDM environment builds the kind of verifiable technical documentation record that advances a drafter toward senior design or engineering roles in industrial manufacturing.

Business Impact: When tolerance stack-up analysis and GD and T callouts are accurate, manufacturing teams hit first-article inspection targets, reducing costly rework cycles and keeping production schedules intact.

Growth Opportunity: Exposure to Engineering Change Order workflows, ERP product data management, and supplier interface builds a cross-functional skill set that opens pathways into design engineering, PDM administration, or manufacturing process roles.

• Interpret engineer-approved redlines and sketches to produce accurate 2D and 3D drawings conforming to ASME and customer documentation standards.
• Apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing callouts and perform tolerance stack-up analysis to ensure part manufacturability.
• Manage drawing records within a PDM environment, including version control, template maintenance, and drawing library organization.
• Support Engineering Change Request cycles by documenting specification changes, updating affected drawings, and coordinating approvals across engineering and Quality teams.
• Interface with internal machine shops and external suppliers to confirm drawing specifications are understood and achievable.
• Create and maintain process documentation including setup sheets, work instructions, and Bills of Materials to support production readiness.
• Review completed drawing packages against quality standards and back-check outputs before formal release.

• Associate's degree in Computer Aided Drafting, Engineering Technology, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• 3 or more years of mechanical or industrial drafting experience, with demonstrated proficiency in 2D and 3D CAD environments.
• Working knowledge of GD and T principles and the ability to apply them accurately to machined, fabricated, and assembled parts.
• Familiarity with PDM or ERP systems for managing engineering drawings, product master data, and change documentation.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering sketches, redline markups, and contract specifications.
• Strong mathematical aptitude including geometry, dimensional analysis, and tolerance calculation.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent drawing assignments and meet production-driven deadlines independently.

• Experience with aerospace or high-tolerance manufacturing environments operating under AS9100 quality management standards.
• Background preparing drawings for molded plastic parts, weldments, sheet metal, or composite structures in addition to machined components.
• Exposure to Engineering Change Order administration and intercompany drawing release processes within an ERP system.
• Working knowledge of IGES and STEP file formats for supplier distribution and cross-platform drawing exchange.

• Drawing release cycle time, measuring how consistently packages clear PDM approval within committed turnaround windows.
• First-article inspection pass rate, reflecting accuracy of GD and T callouts and dimensional specifications on released drawings.
• Engineering Change Order processing time, tracking how quickly affected drawings are updated and re-released after change approval.
• Redline incorporation accuracy rate, measured by the number of revision cycles required before a drawing receives engineer sign-off.
• Supplier clarification requests per drawing package, indicating completeness and clarity of released documentation.
• Typical tools: 2D and 3D CAD drafting software (commonly SolidWorks or AutoCAD), PDM platforms (commonly SolidWorks EPDM or Autodesk Vault).

• Base Salary Range: $48,000 to $72,000 per year depending on experience and industry segment.
• Bonus: Discretionary annual bonus, typically 3 to 7 percent of base salary.
• Equity: Uncommon at this level, occasionally offered at larger publicly traded manufacturers.
• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, typically employer-subsidized for employee and dependents.
• PTO: 10 to 15 days annually, plus standard federal holidays.
• Common Perks: Tool and certification reimbursement, overtime eligibility, on-site manufacturing environment access.

Figures are estimates based on general US market benchmarks and may be outdated. Adjust based on location, company size, and seniority level.

Reasonable accommodations will be made for qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. Employment in this role is contingent on successful completion of a background check, which may include verification of prior employment and education credentials. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

The CAD Drafter delivers site sketches, traffic control plans, and construction document packages for utility construction projects, applying knowledge of utility piping systems and MUTCD standards. Working alongside senior traffic, utility, and mechanical engineers, this role enables accurate permit planning and DOT applications that keep infrastructure projects compliant and on schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare site sketches, traffic control plans, and permit planning documents for utility construction projects.
• Manage and gather information, data, reports, and field notes from work management systems.
• Utilize basic knowledge of utility piping systems and networks.
• Work with dynamic design teams including senior traffic engineers, utility engineers, and mechanical engineers.
• Generate drawings from scratch with minimal direction or revise drawings based on mark-ups from others.
• Prepare project drawings, calculations, and specifications.
• Make independent design decisions and prepare construction document packages.

Required Qualifications

• College Diploma in Engineering Technology or Architecture, or 5 years practical experience in lieu of diploma.
• Minimum 3 years of practical drafting and engineering design experience.
• Basic knowledge of Traffic Design, Traffic Control planning, and MUTCD.
• Basic knowledge of work management systems and associated software.
• Very strong AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and MicroStation knowledge.
• Proficient with spreadsheets, word processing, and engineering software.
• Ability to work on several projects concurrently and manage time effectively.

Embedded within a telecommunications drafting team, the CAD Drafter reworks drawings per redlines, generates templates, and manages the drawing library to uphold company documentation standards. Working closely with design engineers and construction managers, this role ensures that aerial and underground fiber optic drawing packages meet permitting and quality requirements.

Core Functions

• Rework drawings per redlines and execute quality assurance of drawing packages created by peers.
• Generate applicable templates for drawing packages.
• Assist design engineers and construction managers with technical needs.
• Manage drawing library, drawing files, and associated records per company policy.
• Implement standards of drafting and engineering practices.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum 1 year of AutoCAD experience in telecommunications, including aerial and underground fiber optic network systems.
• Proven experience with Fiber to The Home (FTTH) preferred.
• Strong understanding of permitting and design prints.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Earth, and ArcGIS Tools.
• Ability to work with average and percentage mathematics.
• Able to work effectively in both team-oriented and independent environments.

Reporting to senior engineers, the CAD Drafter prepares new drawings and revises existing engineering drawings of basic components from specific sketches or layouts in support of commercial building and facility design projects. Partnering with project teams, this role contributes to consistent drafting quality by adhering to company and client standards while advancing continuous detail improvement efforts.

Primary Duties

• Prepare new drawings and revise existing engineering drawings of basic components from specific sketches or layouts.
• Adhere to company and client drafting standards and procedures.
• Assist in drafting design and documentation for various projects.
• Assist with tasks utilizing standard drafting detail programs.
• Contribute to continuous drafting detail improvement efforts and ad hoc projects as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

• 0-3 years of experience as a Drafter.
• Associate's degree in computer aided drafting and design preferred.
• Exposure to Revit software required.
• AutoCAD experience required.
• Experience supporting commercial building or facility design projects is a plus.
• Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D software is a plus.

Sitting at the intersection of civil engineering and survey services, the CAD Drafter performs drafting assignments in AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Civil3D, creating project sheets from scratch and accurately interpreting markups across permitting and survey tasks. Operating across multiple client standards and project teams, this role upholds drafting quality and accuracy that enables on-time delivery of engineering packages.

Duties

• Associate's degree in computer-aided drafting or a related field required.
• Minimum 4 years of professional drafting experience required.
• Valid driver's license with a good driving record required.
• Ability to work with mathematical concepts including geometry, trigonometry, and statistical analysis.
• Intermediate level CAD proficiency using AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Civil3D.
• Ability to quickly learn new CAD platforms to intermediate level proficiency.
• Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to prioritize workload effectively.

Minimum Qualifications

• Complete drafting assignments and projects in AutoCAD, MicroStation, and Civil3D with minimum supervision.
• Demonstrate advanced proficiency with universal drafting standards and best practices.
• Apply company and client-required alternative drafting standards as needed.
• Create sheets and set up projects from scratch according to standards.
• Accurately interpret markups and incorporate them efficiently into drawings.
• Back-check work to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Identify and resolve potential conflicts and design issues in conjunction with designers.

A key member of a telecommunications engineering team, the CAD Drafter creates AutoCAD drawing packages and permit drawings for wireless sites while supporting design engineers and project managers with technical drafting needs. Collaborating across technical and supervisory personnel, this role enables accurate and timely delivery of telecom design packages used for zoning, permitting, and construction.

Functions

• Create Telecommunication Engineering designs and layouts.
• Create AutoCAD drawing packages and permit drawings for wireless sites.
• Interpret engineering designs and redlines and incorporate them into drawing packages.
• Develop necessary templates used to create AutoCAD drawing packages.
• Work with senior designers to develop drawings, calculations, and equipment applications for the telecom industry.
• Organize and analyze drawings and discuss project complexity and time estimates with technical and supervisory personnel.
• Provide technical support to design engineers, project managers, and other technicians.
• Maintain project drawing files, drawing library, and associated records per company policies.

Position Requirement

• High School diploma required.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in drafting, preferably in civil, electrical, or architectural industry.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in AutoCAD, MicroStation, or other CAD programs.
• Minimum 1 year of experience interpreting utility, topographic, street, or profile maps preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs.
• Reliable transportation to the office required.

As the CAD Drafter, this role develops project data procedures, prepares drawings from scratch using reference materials and hand sketches, and ensures all deliverables comply with Quality Control procedures across civil and structural drafting assignments. The engineering team relies on this work to maintain accurate plot styles, layer controls, and client-ready documentation that supports on-schedule project delivery.

Activities

• Develop procedures and guidelines for project data files, documentation, and backup of engineering documentation.
• Create and maintain Plot Styles and layer controls.
• Attend project meetings to ensure CAD work is on schedule.
• Prepare drawings from scratch utilizing reference drawings, images, PDFs, and hand sketches.
• Create structure drawings, hardware drawings, and maps utilizing coordinates.
• Ensure deliverables are accurate and compliant with Quality Control Procedures.
• Identify the needs of engineering clients to gain understanding of upcoming drawing requirements.

Experience and Qualifications

• High school diploma required, Associate's degree in engineering technology or similar preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in Civil, Structural, or Transmission Drafting.
• Proficient in MicroStation with some AutoCAD experience.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to collaborate and remain calm and professional in a fast-paced environment.
• Good time management skills and willingness to put in extra effort.
• Quality control and quality assurance experience required.

CAD Drafter builds 2D AutoCAD and 3D Inventor engineering documentation, including Part Models, Assemblies, and Bills of Materials, within an Autodesk Vault environment to support new product development. The work directly supports cross-functional teams by producing accurate, presentation-quality drawings and documentation that drive manufacturing readiness and product release.

Operational Focus

• Create 2D AutoCAD and 3D Inventor engineering documentation including Part Models, Drawings, Assemblies, and Bill of Materials.
• Create presentation quality drawings for technical documents and presentations.
• Manage engineering data in an Autodesk Vault environment.
• Work with different teams to gather necessary content for documentation.
• Multi-task and handle several projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

Education and Experience

• Associate's degree or 2-year Technical Degree in Drafting Technology or Engineering Technology required.
• Minimum 2-3 years of experience with 3D CAD Drafting using Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in 2D CAD Drafting.
• Completed CAD Parametric modeling coursework required.
• Solid understanding of drafting principles including BOM generation, GD and T, and drawing redlining and revisions.
• Proficient with SolidWorks or Autodesk AutoCAD, Inventor, and Vault platforms.
• Experience with Engineering Change Orders (ECO) and Inventor's iLogic or Macros preferred.

The CAD Drafter produces engineering models and drawings for mechanical and optomechanical parts and assemblies, applying Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing and performing tolerance stack-up calculations to support manufacturing accuracy. Working alongside internal machine shops and engineering colleagues, this role advances production efficiency through design modification proposals and improvement initiatives within the design record creation process.

Key Deliverables

• Prepare engineering models and drawings for mechanical and optomechanical parts and assemblies.
• Comprehend and utilize Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing.
• Calculate dimensions and tolerance stack-up.
• Interface with internal and external machine shops.
• Review and propose design modifications to increase production efficiency.
• Upload design records including models and drawings to the document repository.
• Provide timely updates for drawing completion and workload.
• Coordinate with colleagues regarding complex diagrams and drive improvement opportunities within the design record creation process.

Professional Experience

• Previous experience in mechanical drafting required.
• Working knowledge of ASME and ISO drawing standards preferred.
• Working proficiency in SolidWorks required.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks of similar and varying priority.
• Strong time management, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with minimal supervision.
• Strong communication skills through email, presentations, and technical documents.

The CAD Drafter develops engineering drawings of plans, elevations, cross-sections, and structural details for bridge, marine, and tunnel projects from rough sketches and general design information. Working closely with CAD Managers, Engineers, and remote staff, this role refines detailing quality in line with company production standards to support accurate and complete structural drawing sets.

Role Responsibilities

• Prepare engineering drawings of plans, elevations, cross-sections, and details of bridge, marine, and tunnel structures from rough sketches or general engineering design information.
• Perform design and drafting assignments under the supervision of CAD Managers and Engineers.
• Operate plotters and printers to produce drawing sets and other items as needed.
• Work collaboratively with other CAD Technicians and Engineers.
• Work closely with mentors to ensure quality of detailing is consistent with company production and design standards.

Background and Experience

• Technical or vocational school education with an emphasis in CAD, or equivalent industry experience in drafting or bridge design.
• Proficient with AutoCAD required.
• Proficiency in MicroStation and 3D modeling tools such as Civil 3D, Revit, and Tekla preferred.
• Working knowledge of design and drafting standards, practices, and techniques preferred.
• Strong independent decision-making skills with awareness of when to draw on others' experience.
• Ability to work with staff located remotely.

Embedded within a residential construction operations department, the CAD Drafter drafts and maintains plan drawing sets for permitting and construction while coordinating revisions across Purchasing, Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Construction teams. Working closely with Architects, Engineers, and internal departments, this role oversees accurate, professional documentation that supports home sales and community development outcomes.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Draft and maintain plan drawing sets for permitting and construction.
• Assist in correspondence with Architects, Engineers, and Construction teams.
• Coordinate plan revisions and corrections with departments including Purchasing, Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Construction.
• Assist Architecture and Design with special projects such as 3D Modeling or creating color diagrams for Paint Schemes.
• Draft construction documents for community monuments and temporary sales office conversions.
• Conduct all business professionally and ethically to serve customers and increase company goodwill and profit.

Qualifications and Experience

• Associate's degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school required.
• Bachelor's degree in Architecture preferred.
• Six months to one year of related experience required.
• Valid driver's license and personal vehicle required.
• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD required.
• Revit, SketchUp, and Photoshop proficiency preferred.
• Proficiency with MS Office and email required.
• Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills required.

Reporting to engineering leadership, the CAD Drafter designs mechanical parts, components, and assemblies including composite and metallic aerospace structures, creating and reviewing drawings that conform to CATIA-based industry documentation standards. Partnering with a small, autonomous development team, this role refines manufacturing tolerances and fabrication methods that support safe and efficient full-scale aircraft production.

Job Functions

• Design mechanical parts, components, and assemblies including composite and metallic structures.
• Create and review engineering drawings and documents conforming to company and industry drawing standards.
• Analyze manufacturing tolerances and fabrication methods to ensure part and assembly manufacturability.
• Apply geometric dimensioning and tolerance.
• Specify materials, finishes, and workmanship callouts in accordance with industry specifications.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum 8 years of related experience with mechanical design and drafting, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience designing composite aerospace structures and related composite manufacturing processes.
• Experienced and proficient with CATIA required.
• Experienced in creating machined parts drawings, composite parts drawings, and mechanical assembly drawings.
• Demonstrated understanding of industry design and documentation standards including GD and T, ASME, and Change Control.
• Ability to work autonomously with initiative in a small team and start-up environment.

Sitting at the intersection of geomatics and construction support, the CAD Drafter provides calculations, prepares 3D models for GPS and Machine Control applications, and maintains as-built records to ensure design criteria are accurately documented throughout infrastructure projects. Operating across grading, structures, paving, and rehabilitation assignments, this role delivers survey and layout information that keeps field staff and clients aligned at every construction stage.

What You'll Do

• Provide calculations to field staff and prepare 3D models for use in GPS and Machine Control applications.
• Prepare engineering and survey plans.
• Maintain accurate survey records, documentation, and submittals.
• Provide layout information at various stages of construction.
• Calculate volumes using various software and methods.
• Maintain as-built records and provide back-up support for other Surveying staff.
• Communicate clearly with clients in a professional manner.

Minimum Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in Geomatics or a design field required.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in Drafting or a calculator role.
• Knowledge of survey practices and standards required.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D.
• Experience with MicroStation and Inroads software required.
• Experience with paving and road infrastructure projects preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication and organizational skills required.
• Ability to read and interpret plans and CAD drawings required.

A key member of a manufacturing engineering and product data management team, the CAD Drafter prepares working plans and detailed drawings while entering and administering product master data in SAP to support accurate documentation and intercompany engineering changes. Collaborating across the PDM helpdesk and engineering functions, this role advances the integrity of product data and drawing records that underpin efficient manufacturing operations.

Scope of Work

• Prepare clear, complete, and accurate working plans and detailed drawings from rough drafts or detailed sketches.
• Enter product master data into ERP software (SAP) including production routings, versions, and master data for special product specifications.
• Process requests sent to the PDM helpdesk.
• Administer intercompany engineering changes.
• Link engineering drawings to the ERP system.

Education and Experience

• Technical Degree in Computer Aided Drafting or Associate's degree in Applied Science or Drafting and Design Technology, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD 2015 or newer required.
• Must have experience with 2D AutoCAD.
• Autodesk Inventor or SolidWorks experience in a manufacturing environment required.
• Must have experience entering and managing product data in SAP or other ERP system.
• Proficient in reading and developing Bills of Materials.
• Ability to work efficiently in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment.

CAD Drafter advances shop drawing production by creating 2D and 3D product drawings and special manufacturing drawings for immediate production while maintaining catalog drawings and the digital Autodesk Vault database. The work directly supports sales staff, Quality Control, and plant operations by delivering accurate, timely drawing packages from new and existing product designs.

Engineering Responsibilities

• Create shop drawings of products using 2D or 3D drafting.
• Create special manufacturing drawings for immediate production.
• Prepare, modify, and maintain accurate catalog drawings from existing and new products for production and Quality Control.
• Prepare product assembly or shop drawings for existing and new products as needed for sales staff and special drawings for plant projects.
• Update and maintain digital database including Autodesk Vault, cloud server, hard copies, and engineering documents.
• Adhere to customer volumes, timelines, and expectations.

Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required, Associate's Degree preferred.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience with AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor.
• Ability to read and interpret sketches, construction, and civil plans.
• Ability to review and understand contract drawings and specifications.
• Proficient in all Microsoft Office applications.
• Basic mathematical skills and strong attention to detail required.
• Ability to handle several projects at once with minimum guidance from start to finish.

As the CAD Drafter, this role coordinates design releases through CAD, PDM, and ERP software, documenting Engineering Change Request activities and performing tolerance stack-up analysis on assemblies to support manufacturing and R and D teams. The engineering department relies on this work to maintain accurate SolidWorks models, drawing standards, and supplier-ready transfer files that enable consistent, compliant product development.

Delivery Expectations

• Assist the engineer in documenting activities and changes throughout the Engineering Change Request process including drawings, specifications, forms, test data, and Bill of Materials.
• Facilitate design releases through the use of CAD, PDM, and ERP software.
• Perform tolerance stack-up analysis on assemblies ranging from simple to medium difficulty.
• Research and resolve application issues related to SolidWorks CAD and SolidWorks EPDM.
• Coordinate with departments including R and D, Quality, Production, Purchasing, and Customer Service to resolve issues and complete assignments.
• Interface with suppliers to ensure capability of meeting all drawing specifications.
• Create and work with IGES, STEP, and other transfer files for distribution to suppliers.
• Maintain written department procedures including Drafting Standards, part and assembly templates, and sheet formats.

Background and Experience

• Associate's degree or equivalent from a two-year college or technical school in Computer Aided Drafting required, Bachelor's degree in an Engineering discipline preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of CAD modeling experience.
• Proficiency in modeling complex assemblies and creating machine-ready drawings with SolidWorks CAD Software.
• Proficiency in preparing drawings for molded plastic parts, extrusions, wire harnesses, machined parts, weldments, electronics, and PC boards.
• Required understanding of GD and T per ASME Y14.5.
• Must have experience with PDM systems and ERP software.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to perform in a collaborative, dynamic environment with shifting priorities.