Mechanical Drafter

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Mechanical Drafter

Job Description

The Mechanical Drafter creates detailed 2D and 3D models and drawings for prototype components and assemblies using SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or CATIA. This role focuses on translating complex engineering concepts into accurate, manufacturable designs and clear assembly instructions, particularly for builder airplane assembly. The position supports engineering teams by refining designs, documenting changes, and producing high-quality manufacturing and assembly documentation in a rapidly growing, aviation-focused environment.

Responsibilities

• Create detailed 2D and 3D models and drawings for prototype components and assemblies using SolidWorks and AutoCAD, with potential use of CATIA.
• Produce production-ready drawings that meet defined workflow expectations and support volume manufacturing.
• Perform basic tolerance analysis and apply an understanding of tolerance stackups to ensure parts and assemblies fit and function correctly.
• Ensure all drawings include accurate dimensions, materials, finishes, and other critical manufacturing information.
• Work closely with designers and engineers to clean up designs, incorporate redlines, and develop new prototypes.
• Update and revise CAD drawings based on engineering feedback, design reviews, and change requests.
• Support engineering change orders (ECOs) by updating drawings, models, and related documentation as required.
• Create and maintain bills of materials (BOMs) and support BOM-related activities using an ERP system and Excel.
• Write, review, and maintain manufacturing documentation, including work instructions, assembly instructions, and other technical documents.
• Translate complex technical concepts and procedures into clear, concise, and visually supported instructions using drawings, images, and text for builder airplane assembly.
• Develop and refine assembly drawings that clearly communicate build sequences and installation details.
• Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and aligned with shop capabilities and processes.
• Apply basic Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles to drawings and support continuous improvement in dimensioning practices.
• Support aerospace, aviation, or sheet metal design efforts by producing accurate sheet metal drawings and documentation when applicable.

Essential Skills

• Proven SolidWorks drawings experience in a production or volume manufacturing environment.
• Strong mechanical drafting skills with experience producing detailed 2D and 3D CAD drawings.
• Basic understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), including its application to production drawings.
• Experience with redlining and revising drawings based on engineering and manufacturing feedback.
• Hands-on experience with manufacturing documentation, including writing and reviewing work instructions and assembly documentation.
• Experience supporting bills of materials (BOMs) and engineering change orders (ECOs).
• Solid modeling skills using SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
• Ability to perform basic tolerance analysis and understand tolerance stackups in mechanical assemblies.
• Ability to translate technical and engineering concepts into clear, understandable written and visual instructions.
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word for documentation creation and editing.
• Ability to use an ERP system and Excel to pull BOMs and assembly instructions.
• Mechanical aptitude and understanding of manufacturing processes, preferably in a prototype or production environment.
• Collaborative mindset with a willingness to learn, contribute, and take initiative.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience with technical writing, including work instructions, manuals, and assembly or builder notes.
• Background in manufacturing, ideally in aircraft or aerospace manufacturing, to better translate technical concepts into assembly instructions.
• Aviation or aircraft experience and passion, such as involvement in aviation-related hobbies or projects.
• Experience with kit building or similar hands-on assembly projects, especially related to aircraft or complex mechanical systems.
• Working knowledge of GD&T beyond the basics, including more advanced application to complex assemblies.
• Experience with aerospace, aviation, or sheet metal drawings and design.
• Familiarity with engineering support activities, including documentation, ECO processing, and assembly drawing creation.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-growing environment with multiple concurrent R&D projects.

Work Environment

The role operates in a combined shop and office setting, providing exposure to both hands-on manufacturing activities and desk-based CAD and documentation work. The position supports a rapidly growing organization with multiple active research and development projects and ongoing new phases of R&D. You will work closely with designers, engineers, and manufacturing staff, using tools such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Microsoft Word, Excel, and an ERP system. The environment is well-suited for individuals with aviation-related interests, offering a culture that values innovation in aerospace and aircraft-related projects. When converted to a direct role, employees have access to a comprehensive benefits package that may include salary, 401(k), health coverage, an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), and participation in an employee flying club. During the consulting period, the role includes paid time off, holidays, and sick time. The setting encourages collaboration, technical curiosity, and engagement with aviation-focused work, with typical professional office and shop attire appropriate to the mixed environment.

This is a Contract position based out of Aurora, OR.

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $35.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Aurora,OR.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 29, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on ziprecruiter.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.