Description
Prepare detailed structural CAD/BIM drawings and models for buildings and civil structures, including plans, sections, rebar and steel details, and connection diagrams. Use knowledge of structural materials, codes, engineering practices, and mathematics to produce accurate construction documents and shop drawings.
- • Produce structural plans, elevations, sections, and details using CAD/BIM software.
- • Draft foundation, framing, and connection drawings from engineer sketches, markups, and calculations.
- • Develop reinforcement layouts, bar lists, and bending schedules for cast-in-place and precast concrete.
- • Create steel detailing, including member tags, bolt/weld symbols, shop and erection drawings.
- • Coordinate structural models and drawings with architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing layouts.
- • Apply building codes and structural standards to ensure drawings meet design and regulatory requirements.
- • Prepare beam, column, slab, footing, and wall schedules and material takeoffs.
- • Incorporate survey control, grids, and geotechnical data into structural layouts and notes.
- • Determine drawing sequence, scale, and presentation method (plan, section, elevation, isometric) for clarity.
- • Check dimensions, member sizes, embed locations, and elevations; update bills of materials and mark numbers.
- • Build and maintain BIM/CAD templates, families/blocks, title sheets, and drawing standards.
- • Perform QA/QC reviews of drawings for accuracy, constructability, and adherence to standards.
- • Conduct site visits for measurements, as-builts, and to verify existing structural conditions.
- • Explain structural drawings and details to fabrication and construction teams; issue clarifications as needed.
- • Assemble complete structural drawing packages; plot, publish PDFs, and manage revision control.
- • Obtain and organize design data, specifications, geotechnical reports, and product submittals to support drafting.
- • Calculate basic member weights, concrete volumes, and rebar quantities to support estimates and procurement.
- • Prepare connection sketches and exploded details to communicate complex assemblies.
- • Interpret and apply weld, rebar, and conventional drafting symbols and notation.
- • Perform clash detection and resolve conflicts between structural and other discipline models.
- • Track RFIs, submittals, and design changes; update drawings and logs promptly.
- • Assist in preparing quantities for bids and in compiling drawing indexes, notes, and general structural specifications under engineer supervision.
- • Review shop drawings, field drawings, and vendor prints for conformance with the structural design.
- • Determine fabrication and installation instructions on drawings according to design specifications and tolerances.
- • Support engineers during construction by attending coordination meetings and site walks, under supervision.
- • Produce field sketches and redlines by hand when required.
- • Ensure compliance with company, client, and code requirements for drawing content, naming, and metadata.
- • Maintain digital project files and models, including backups, transmittals, and archival per project procedures.
Related specializations
Interview options
Interview options
Interviewee gender
Interviewee accent
Interview time
Related Pathways
Source
Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
Learn more
Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
