Civil Drafter 2 - Energy & Industrial
Company : Sargent &lundy
Location : Chicago, IL, 60603
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 11 January 2026
Description
This role offers a hybrid work arrangement. You'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.
This position will offer you the opportunity to work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams to use your creativity and innovation to develop 3D models of civil grading and structures to produce civil drawing deliverables within CAD software.
- This entry-level position will offer you the opportunity to utilize and expand your drafting skills, while working in a multi-disciplined team environment with other designers and/or engineers in the preparation of design drawings based on design input.
- You will have the opportunity to apply your computer-aided drafting skills, while receiving hands-on training in 3D design software environments, such as AutoCAD 3D and/or MicroStation; additionally, you will receive training in Sargent & Lundy’s award-winning, industry-recognized proprietary design databases.
- You will be involved in creating master sketches to scale showing relation of proposed installations to new and/or existing facilities and exact specifications and dimensions.
- While interfacing with vendors and construction contractors, you may be given the opportunity to explain your drawings so appropriate design adjustments can be made.
Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Essential skills and experience:
- Associates Degree in Computer Aided Design Technology preferred.
- CAD certificate required in non-degreed.
- Previous relevant experience considered.
- Experience using AutoCAD and MicroStation software.
- Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principals involved in production of technical plans, drawings, and models.
- Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology, including the ability to relate various equipment to a technical design.
CAD Software skill valued, but not required:
- Bentley Microstation
- Autodesk AutoCAD
Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance- Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
- Life & Accident Insurance
- Disability Coverage
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Back-Up Daycare
- FSA & HSA
- 401(k)
- Pre-Tax Commuter Account
- Merit Scholarship Program
- Employee Discount Program
- Corporate Charitable Giving Program
- Tuition Assistance
- First Professional Licensure Bonus
- Employee Referral Bonus
- Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Parental Leave
- Paid Bereavement Leave
- Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range
$45,480.00 - $65,460.00Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.About This Business Unit
The Energy & Industrial Group (EIG) specializes in delivering advanced engineering solutions across various sectors, including power generation, environmental compliance, oil & gas, and industrial projects, from new plant design to plant betterment and upgrade services for operating facilities. We have designed nearly 900 conventional power plants, yielding over 100,000 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity. Our expertise includes numerous recent and ongoing combined cycle projects that leverage the latest advanced machinery, including combustion turbines, steam turbines, and heat recovery steam generators from all leading suppliers. EIG is recognized for its commitment to decarbonization through innovative technologies in renewable energy, carbon capture, and hydrogen power. We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage integration, and lead the industry in carbon capture technologies, managing projects from conceptual studies, pilot demonstrations and through commercial scale implementation for utilities and industrial plants.
Awards & Recognition
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.
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Frequently asked questions
Chicago's energy and industrial sectors have a steady demand for skilled Civil Drafters, especially those familiar with CAD tools like AutoCAD and MicroStation. While competition exists, having experience in 3D civil grading models and knowledge of local regulations can provide a notable advantage in securing roles.
Employers around Chicago often favor candidates with CAD certifications, especially in AutoCAD and MicroStation, plus experience in energy-related design projects. While an associate degree is valued, proficiency in proprietary design databases and 3D modeling increases your appeal for energy-focused drafting positions.
Expect to develop detailed 3D civil grading and structural models, collaborate closely with engineers and designers, and produce precise technical drawings. You'll also coordinate with vendors and contractors to ensure drawings meet exact specifications, playing a critical role in project execution within energy infrastructure.
Yes, starting as a Civil Drafter 2 provides a solid foundation in drafting and project collaboration. Gaining expertise in advanced CAD software and renewable energy projects can pave the way toward senior design roles or engineering technician positions within the energy sector.
Sargent & Lundy stands out by offering hybrid work flexibility, comprehensive healthcare, merit scholarships, and a robust employee assistance program. Their recognition for workplace culture and benefits in consecutive years highlights a supportive environment for Civil Drafters balancing work-life demands.
At Sargent & Lundy, Civil Drafter 2s contribute directly to cutting-edge energy solutions like photovoltaic solar and carbon capture projects. Your drafting will support multi-disciplinary teams, ensuring seamless design integration across complex power generation and industrial plant upgrades.
Salaries for Civil Drafter 2 roles in Chicago's energy sector generally range from $45,480 to $65,460 annually. Compensation often includes comprehensive benefits and potential bonuses, reflecting the specialized skills in CAD drafting and energy infrastructure design demanded by the market.
With Chicago's push toward sustainable energy and industrial modernization, demand for Civil Drafters skilled in energy projects has grown. Expertise in 3D modeling and familiarity with emerging technologies like carbon capture enhance employability in this evolving market.
Challenges include ensuring drawings accurately reflect site conditions and regulatory compliance, managing design revisions, and communicating technical details clearly. Navigating Chicago's specific building codes and environmental standards requires attention to detail and strong coordination skills.
Hybrid work models are becoming more prevalent in Chicago’s energy drafting roles. Sargent & Lundy offers a flexible schedule with three office days and two remote days weekly, supporting both collaboration and individual focus, which is appreciated by professionals in technical design roles.