STEM OPT Drafting Technician Jobs
Drafting Technician roles in CAD, civil, mechanical, and electrical design qualify for STEM OPT because they sit under accredited engineering technology CIP codes. Your STEM degree gives you up to 36 months of work authorization, provided your employer is enrolled in E-Verify and you file a valid I-983 training plan with your DSO.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Strong communities don’t just happen. They’re thoughtfully planned and future-ready. We bring life to urban downtowns, suburban hubs, small towns, and rural areas through master-planned communities, mixed-use developments, parks, and recreation facilities. The result: vibrant economic centers, resilient neighborhoods, and welcoming places that feel like home.
Accurate data is the top priority for our Geospatial team. Through our work, we measure, process, and analyze spatial data and define land boundaries. We provide our clients a full range of surveying, GIS, and mapping services. Join a team of inspired and talented professionals who continually find inventive ways to get the job done safer, better, faster, and smarter.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In this position as a Survey CAD Technician, you will have the opportunity to work as part of a team of surveyors, engineers, and technical experts on multiple projects for a range of public and private sector clients. Under the guidance of a Senior Surveyor, you will perform surveying and mapping services to locate improvements, analyze title encumbrances and easements and provide engineering support to assist in the design and construction of site improvements. This is a great opportunity for a motivated, energetic individual who wants to challenge their abilities in a dynamic work environment.
Your Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare CAD drawings on concurrent projects, including boundary, topographic, land title surveys, subdivision plats, metes and bounds descriptions, and other surveys.
- Prepare record deed and plat drawings to assist the field crews, reduce field data, calculate contours, complete final survey drawings, and retrace the boundaries of a project.
- Assist in coordinating activities of a survey field crew, ensure completion dates and budgets are met, and consistent application of firm operating standards and safety practices.
- Review field notes and exhibits for easement agreements.
- Prepare staking calculations for construction projects.
- Research survey records to obtain information about property boundaries to be surveyed and coordinate findings with the work of engineers, clients and others involved in projects.
- Review field survey data for accuracy, including measurements and calculations conducted for survey sites.
- Perform other duties of a similar nature as assigned.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD Civil3D surface modeling required.
- Knowledge of CAD standards and relevant software programs including, Openroads, Trimble Business Center, Microsoft Office, and related software a plus.
- Strong math skills, including algebra and trigonometry.
- Requires ability to work well in a team environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Able to work under and meet tight deadlines.
- UAS and/or LiDAR data processing a plus.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Technical degree/diploma/certificate or equivalent in related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in Civil 3D performing similar tasks in an office environment.
Typically, this position works in an open-concept office environment.
This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
ABOUT STANTEC
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what’s previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what’s possible.
If you’re passionate about empowering communities, join us to discover a career with endless opportunities to make communities more equitable, resilient, and livable.
PAY TRANSPARENCY: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
BENEFITS SUMMARY: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements.
LOCATION
Primary Location: United States | TX | San Antonio
ORGANIZATION: 1720 CommDev-US Southwest-San Antonio TX
EMPLOYEE STATUS: Regular
BUSINESS JUSTIFICATION: New Position
TRAVEL: Yes
SCHEDULE: Full time
JOB POSTING: 10/06/2026 05:06:26
REQ ID: 1006274
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment. At Stantec we are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process then please inform a member of our Talent Acquisition team.
INTRODUCTION
Strong communities don’t just happen. They’re thoughtfully planned and future-ready. We bring life to urban downtowns, suburban hubs, small towns, and rural areas through master-planned communities, mixed-use developments, parks, and recreation facilities. The result: vibrant economic centers, resilient neighborhoods, and welcoming places that feel like home.
Accurate data is the top priority for our Geospatial team. Through our work, we measure, process, and analyze spatial data and define land boundaries. We provide our clients a full range of surveying, GIS, and mapping services. Join a team of inspired and talented professionals who continually find inventive ways to get the job done safer, better, faster, and smarter.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In this position as a Survey CAD Technician, you will have the opportunity to work as part of a team of surveyors, engineers, and technical experts on multiple projects for a range of public and private sector clients. Under the guidance of a Senior Surveyor, you will perform surveying and mapping services to locate improvements, analyze title encumbrances and easements and provide engineering support to assist in the design and construction of site improvements. This is a great opportunity for a motivated, energetic individual who wants to challenge their abilities in a dynamic work environment.
Your Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare CAD drawings on concurrent projects, including boundary, topographic, land title surveys, subdivision plats, metes and bounds descriptions, and other surveys.
- Prepare record deed and plat drawings to assist the field crews, reduce field data, calculate contours, complete final survey drawings, and retrace the boundaries of a project.
- Assist in coordinating activities of a survey field crew, ensure completion dates and budgets are met, and consistent application of firm operating standards and safety practices.
- Review field notes and exhibits for easement agreements.
- Prepare staking calculations for construction projects.
- Research survey records to obtain information about property boundaries to be surveyed and coordinate findings with the work of engineers, clients and others involved in projects.
- Review field survey data for accuracy, including measurements and calculations conducted for survey sites.
- Perform other duties of a similar nature as assigned.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD Civil3D surface modeling required.
- Knowledge of CAD standards and relevant software programs including, Openroads, Trimble Business Center, Microsoft Office, and related software a plus.
- Strong math skills, including algebra and trigonometry.
- Requires ability to work well in a team environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Able to work under and meet tight deadlines.
- UAS and/or LiDAR data processing a plus.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Technical degree/diploma/certificate or equivalent in related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in Civil 3D performing similar tasks in an office environment.
Typically, this position works in an open-concept office environment.
This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
ABOUT STANTEC
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what’s previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what’s possible.
If you’re passionate about empowering communities, join us to discover a career with endless opportunities to make communities more equitable, resilient, and livable.
PAY TRANSPARENCY: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
BENEFITS SUMMARY: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements.
LOCATION
Primary Location: United States | TX | San Antonio
ORGANIZATION: 1720 CommDev-US Southwest-San Antonio TX
EMPLOYEE STATUS: Regular
BUSINESS JUSTIFICATION: New Position
TRAVEL: Yes
SCHEDULE: Full time
JOB POSTING: 10/06/2026 05:06:26
REQ ID: 1006274
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment. At Stantec we are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process then please inform a member of our Talent Acquisition team.
See all STEM OPT Drafting Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new STEM OPT Drafting Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a Drafting Technician
Verify your CIP code qualifies
Check that your degree's CIP code appears on the STEM Designated Degree Program List published by ICE. Engineering technology, mechanical engineering technology, and computer-aided design programs typically qualify, but check your specific code before applying.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before accepting offers
Any employer hiring you on STEM OPT must be enrolled in E-Verify. Ask the recruiter or HR contact directly, and cross-check the employer's status through the official E-Verify employer search before you sign anything.
Target firms with active LCA drafting filings
Use Migrate Mate to filter employers by LCA filing history for drafting and engineering technician roles. Firms that have filed LCAs for these roles have already navigated STEM OPT paperwork and are far less likely to withdraw an offer over authorization concerns.
Tailor your I-983 to your specific drafting duties
Your training plan must map STEM OPT learning objectives to real tasks like AutoCAD modeling, tolerancing, or drawing revision workflows. A generic training plan that could describe any technical role invites DSO rejection and delays your extension.
Apply before your 90-day OPT gap window closes
USCIS allows up to 90 days of unemployment during initial OPT and an additional 60 days during STEM OPT. Track your unemployed days carefully because a gap caused by a delayed offer or slow onboarding counts against that limit.
Research prevailing wages for your drafting specialty
Look up the wage level for your specific drafting SOC code using OFLC Wage Search before negotiating your offer. Employers filing an LCA must pay at least the prevailing wage, so knowing that floor strengthens your position and flags underpaying employers early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Drafting Technician role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, if your underlying degree carries an eligible CIP code. Drafting Technician positions typically sit under engineering technology or mechanical engineering technology programs, which appear on the STEM Designated Degree Program List. Your degree must be from a SEVP-accredited institution and the job duties must align with that STEM field for USCIS to approve the extension.
What does my employer need to do to hire me on STEM OPT?
Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify and must co-sign your I-983 training plan before your DSO can recommend the STEM OPT extension. They also need to report any material changes to your training plan and conduct a formal evaluation at the midpoint and end of each 24-month period. Employers unfamiliar with these obligations sometimes withdraw offers, so confirm all of this upfront.
How do I find Drafting Technician employers enrolled in E-Verify?
Migrate Mate filters employer listings by E-Verify enrollment status and LCA filing history, so you can focus only on firms already set up to hire STEM OPT students. You can also verify any specific employer directly through the E-Verify employer search tool before committing to an application or interview process.
What should my I-983 training plan include for a Drafting Technician position?
Your I-983 must describe how the role develops STEM skills tied to your degree field. For a Drafting Technician, that means documenting specific learning goals around CAD software proficiency, technical drawing standards, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, or design review processes. Vague descriptions like 'gaining work experience' are insufficient. Your DSO can reject a plan that doesn't clearly connect daily tasks to your STEM degree program.
Does cap-gap protection apply if my employer files an H-1B petition while I'm on STEM OPT?
Yes. If your STEM OPT is still valid when your employer files a timely H-1B visa cap-subject petition for the following fiscal year, cap-gap extends your work authorization automatically through September 30 of that year if your petition is selected. You don't need to take any separate action, but your employer must maintain E-Verify enrollment and your I-983 remains in effect throughout the cap-gap period.