Highway Drafter

Position Overview

Highway Drafter – Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). The role involves drafting and technical plan preparation that supports highway and bridge projects across the state. Draft plans are developed from early sketches to final layouts using computer‑aided drafting and design (CADD) and other design standards.

• Prepare highway, bridge, and right‑of‑way plans using CADD and basic drafting tools.
• Support designers by checking grades, drawing profiles, and calculating material quantities.
• Create layouts, cross sections, drainage sheets, and other plan details from preliminary sketches through final versions.
• Use survey notes, deeds, and three‑dimensional data to prepare accurate plan sheets.
• Generate tabulations, estimates, and other project documents using tools such as Auto Tab and Roadway Management System (RMS).
• Participate in field views, inspections, and meetings; prepare notes or sketches when needed.
• Assist in full‑time scheduling: 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with a 30‑minute lunch break.
• May have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part‑time after successful completion of a probationary period, subject to conditions and location restrictions.

• One year as an Engineering Technician (Commonwealth title or equivalent Federal title) or
• Two years of drafting assignments, including one in highway drafting, six months CADD experience or training, and high‑school graduation, or
• One year of highway drafting and detailing assignments including six months CADD experience or training and an Associate’s Degree in civil engineering, drafting, or design technology, or
• Any equivalent combination of experience and/or training.

• Must meet the Pennsylvania residency requirement.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.
• Conditional offer of employment will require submission of criminal history reports.

• Full‑time employment with a salary starting at $46,827.00 per year.
• Telework may be available part‑time after probation.
• Necessary to maintain a securely configured high‑speed internet connection if teleworking.
• All communications will be via email; applicants should check spam/junk folders.
• Travel may be required for field work.
• Telecommunications Relay Service: 711 for hearing and speech disabilities.

Pennsylvania law provides employment preference for qualified veterans. For more information, visit the state website.

• The application and supplemental questions constitute the exam; no written test is required.
• Score is based on the detailed information provided; it is valid only for this posting.
• Applicants must submit all required information accurately; incomplete information may lead to a lower score or disqualification.
• Only one application per posting is allowed.
• Results will be communicated via email.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer, committed to a diverse workforce and not discriminating on protected categories. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.