Job Title: Architectural / Structural CAD Drafter & Field TechnicianJob DescriptionThis role combines architectural and structural CAD drafting with hands-on fieldwork to support a wide range of commercial, institutional, industrial, and residential building projects. You will create detailed technical drawings in AutoCAD while also conducting site visits, building surveys, field measurements, and existing-condition documentation. The position offers exposure to forensic engineering and existing-building assessments, with a focus on repairs, renovations, and building diagnostics. Work is typically split between 40%-60% CAD drafting and 40%-60% field visits, depending on project demands, and you will collaborate closely with engineers and other project stakeholders in a small, highly collaborative office environment.
Responsibilities
- Create accurate architectural and structural drawings, including plans, elevations, sections, details, and technical exhibits.
- Develop CAD drawings from engineer markups, field measurements, photographs, sketches, existing drawings, and survey information.
- Prepare construction details involving architectural and structural building components, assemblies, repairs, and modifications.
- Produce existing-condition and as-built drawings based on field surveys and site documentation.
- Work closely with engineers to translate technical concepts, sketches, and field information into clear and accurate drawings.
- Establish and maintain CAD standards, drawing templates, title blocks, layer structures, and drafting procedures.
- Review and improve existing CAD workflows, standards, and documentation processes.
- Serve as an internal resource for AutoCAD software, drafting best practices, and workflow improvements.
- Assist with the implementation and management of BIM/Revit workflows where applicable.
- Coordinate drawing development with project engineers, architects, contractors, and outside consultants.
- Conduct site visits throughout the region to document existing conditions of buildings and structures.
- Perform detailed field measurements and translate field information into accurate drawings and as-built documentation.
- Observe and document architectural and structural building components and existing construction conditions.
- Assist engineers during building inspections, site surveys, construction observations, and existing-condition assessments.
- Collect photographs, measurements, sketches, and other relevant field information during site visits.
- Identify and document building materials, assemblies, structural components, and construction details in the field.
- Utilize laser measuring equipment, scanners, drones, and other field technologies when applicable.
- Prepare site sketches, field documentation, and supporting project information for project records.
- Maintain detailed and organized records from site visits and ensure information is integrated into project documentation.
- Travel independently to project sites and client locations as required across designated regions.
- Assist with forensic investigations and building assessments related to damage, deterioration, construction issues, or other building conditions.
- Work closely with architects, engineers, contractors, property owners, and other project stakeholders to support project delivery.
- Manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously while maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy.
- Ensure accuracy, consistency, and quality of all drafting and field documentation produced.
- Coordinate office-based drafting work with information gathered during site visits to maintain alignment between design and field conditions.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of technical standards, drafting practices, and project workflows.
- Develop a strong understanding of each project's building systems and construction conditions to produce accurate technical documentation.
Essential Skills
- Associate's Degree or Technical Degree in Architecture, Architectural Technology, Structural Engineering Technology, Drafting, CAD Technology, Construction Engineering Technology, or a related field.
- At least 3 years of drafting experience in one or more of the following areas: structural engineering, architecture, building envelope consulting, construction documentation, or forensic engineering.
- Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD, including the ability to produce detailed architectural and structural drawings.
- Full proficiency in AutoCAD as a core drafting and design tool.
- Experience in either architectural drafting or structural drafting for buildings.
- Understanding of building construction methods, materials, and systems.
- Ability to interpret construction documents, specifications, and structural details.
- Experience preparing construction details and technical drawings for building projects.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain detailed records.
- Strong communication skills for effective collaboration with engineers, architects, contractors, and other stakeholders.
- Ability to travel to job sites to perform inspections, surveys, and field documentation.
- Valid driver's license and ability to independently travel to project sites and client locations.
- Comfort working both in an office environment and on active construction sites.
- Ability to perform detailed field measurements and translate them into accurate CAD drawings and as-built documentation.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
- Experience with structural design, structural steel detailing, and structural drafting is beneficial.
- Background in civil or structural engineering-related drafting or design.
- Experience with construction drawings, construction documentation, and construction detailing.
- Familiarity with building envelope consulting or forensic engineering is a plus, though not required.
- Experience assisting with or supporting forensic investigations and building assessments.
- Exposure to BIM/Revit workflows and willingness to assist with implementation and management of Revit processes.
- Comfort using field technologies such as laser measuring equipment, scanners, and drones.
- Construction Background or field experience that supports effective communication with on-site personnel and trades.
- Ability to contribute to the development and refinement of CAD standards, templates, and drafting procedures.
- Interest in existing-building assessments, repairs, renovations, and restoration projects.
- Motivation to grow professionally within a small, expanding firm with significant opportunities for advancement.
Work EnvironmentThe role is based in a modern design studio in Bedminster, NJ, within a small team environment of approximately a dozen professionals, including licensed engineers, architects, and E.I.T.s. The culture is professional yet relaxed, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, accountability, and mutual support. The office uses the latest versions of AutoCAD and Revit, and every employee receives a laptop and cellphone. Standard office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional evening meetings for senior staff. There is some flexibility to work from home on certain days, and work-life balance is actively encouraged. The team enjoys a close-knit, low-turnover environment with activities such as playing Xbox, ping pong, and casual gatherings, including Friday barbecues when weather permits. Everyone contributes to both office and field tasks, and no job is considered too small. A large portion of the work involves traveling to job sites and being present on construction sites, including climbing ladders, accessing roofs, and performing hands-on building assessments. Typical job sites are located in areas such as Hudson County (Gold Coast), Secaucus, Princeton/Plainsboro, and Long Branch/Asbury Park. The firm offers a stable workload focused on existing buildings and forensic engineering, with strong long-term growth plans. Paid holidays include New Years Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and typically the day after, and Christmas Day. Two weeks of vacation are provided at the start, with additional time off possible with approval, and sick time is provided in accordance with New Jersey requirements, typically totaling five days. Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Far Hills, NJ. Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $25.00 - $40.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.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) Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract to Hire position based out of Far Hills, NJ. Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 23, 2026. Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Far Hills,NJ.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 actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.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.
