Senior Drafter

Innovative Solutions To Complex Problems – ARA is globally recognized for applying our diverse science and engineering experience to drive innovation and solve complex problems. The Prototyping Manufacturing and Integration Division (PMID) of Applied Research Associates (ARA), Inc., has an exciting opportunity for a full-time Senior Drafter working on-site at our Madison, AL facility.

A Senior Drafter will provide innovative computer-aided design and drawings based on engineering sketches and proposal specifications. This includes design, development, evaluation, and modification of systems and system-oriented products. The Senior Drafter will analyze customer problems and recommend drafting techniques to satisfy customer needs. Responsibilities include digitizing, editing, and revising engineering drawings of components, parts, circuits, structures, and/or assemblies. The complexity of assignments requires initiative, independent judgment, and the ability to work with only general technical direction.

The position requires passing a national background check and obtaining/maintaining a minimum SECRET clearance from the U.S. Department of War.

Base Pay Ranges:
From $60,000 – $62,000 annually, based on years of experience as a specialized Drafter and knowledge you bring to the position.

• Develop design drawings according to engineering sketches and proposal specifications.
• Digitize, edit, and revise engineering drawings of components, parts, circuits, structures, and/or assemblies.
• Make engineering computations, mathematical calculations, determine scales, and prepare or revise specifications.
• Perform calculations needed to solve scaling, dimensioning, and cross‑section interpolations.
• Sketch rough layout of machine and compute angles, weights, surface areas, dimensions, radii, clearances, tolerances, levers, and locations of holes.
• Work closely with the drafting and engineering team to address design‑related challenges, providing support and adjustments as needed.
• Gather, maintain, format, compile, and manipulate technical data such as BOMs, product/material data sheets, and engineering design changes.
• Stay up‑to‑date with industry trends, drafting techniques, and software advancements, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation in the design process.
• Manage and organize design files, patterns, and technical documentation systematically to facilitate seamless information sharing.
• Conduct regular quality checks on final products, ensuring they adhere to established design specifications and industry standards.
• Request supervision for unusual cases.
• Provide intermediate technical support to engineers on a variety of tasks.
• Manage and prioritize numerous assignments.

• High School diploma or equivalent, plus advanced training and 5–6 years of working knowledge and experience as a Drafter.
• Proficiency in using computer‑aided design and modeling software.
• Strong knowledge of Solid Works and features in the Solid Works drawing environment.
• Experience producing a drawing package that includes drafting techniques, processes, dimensional and tolerance guidelines.
• Strong attention to detail and precision in translating designs into accurate technical specifications.
• Capability to perform advanced drafting techniques with intermediate to advanced knowledge of practical fabrication techniques.
• Ability to gather, maintain, format, compile, and manipulate technical data such as BOMs, product/material data sheets, and engineering design changes.
• Excellent communication skills to collaborate effectively with engineering, design, and production teams.
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Provide solutions and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges.
• Passion for staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.
• Work is checked upon completion to avoid errors and meet agreed deadlines or timelines.
• May support design team through moderate to advanced additions and changes of model.
• Be physically capable of wearing required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, respirator, safety shoes, hearing protection, and hand protection.

• Active/current SECRET clearance from the U.S. Department of War.
• Prior experience as a Drafter in defense or government contractor manufacturing environments.
• Associate’s degree.
• Knowledge of electrical and/or hydraulic schematics.
• Solid Works FEA analysis experience.

Equal Opportunity Employer. Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.