The Storage Tank Drafter is responsible for preparing detailed fabrication, erection, and as-built drawings for welded steel storage tank projects. Working closely with Project Managers, Engineers, and Shop Supervisors, the Drafter develops accurate drawings and material takeoffs that support fabrication, construction, and project execution while ensuring compliance with API 650, API 620, AWWA, and project-specific requirements.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Drafting & Design
- Prepare detailed shop fabrication drawings and field erection drawings for welded steel storage tanks.
- Develop General Arrangement (GA) drawings, shell layouts, roof layouts, bottom layouts, nozzle details, ladder and platform details, and structural attachment drawings.
- Produce fabrication details for shell courses, roof framing, bottom plates, manways, nozzles, reinforcement pads, stairs, handrails, and appurtenances.
- Create assembly drawings, weld maps, and installation details.
- Prepare as-built drawings upon project completion.
Engineering Support
- Work closely with engineers to incorporate design calculations into fabrication drawings.
- Coordinate drawing revisions resulting from Requests for Information (RFIs), change orders, and field modifications.
- Review project specifications and contract drawings to ensure all requirements are incorporated into the design package.
- Assist with design coordination meetings and constructability reviews.
Material Takeoffs
- Prepare detailed bills of materials (BOMs) for fabrication and procurement.
- Generate steel plate, structural steel, piping, and hardware takeoffs.
- Verify material quantities against project drawings and specifications.
- Coordinate with Purchasing to ensure accurate material ordering.
Quality & Document Control
- Maintain drawing accuracy, revision control, and document management.
- Ensure drawings comply with company drafting standards and project requirements.
- Coordinate drawing releases with Project Management and Production.
- Archive completed project drawings and maintain electronic records.
Shop & Field Coordination
- Support fabrication personnel by answering drawing-related questions and clarifying details.
- Coordinate with Project Managers and Shop Foremen to resolve fabrication issues.
- Revise drawings to reflect approved field changes.
- Participate in project meetings as required.
Qualifications
- Associate degree or technical certificate in Drafting, Design Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.
- Minimum of 3 years of drafting experience in steel fabrication, industrial construction, or storage tank projects.
- Experience with API 650 and/or API 620 storage tanks is preferred.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD is required.
- Experience with Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks, Tekla Structures, or similar 3D modeling software is preferred.
- Strong understanding of fabrication and construction practices.
Required Skills
- Proficiency in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and welding symbols.
- Strong knowledge of steel fabrication methods and detailing practices.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- High attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
Preferred Knowledge
- API 650 and API 620 welded storage tank standards.
- AWWA D100 steel water tank standards.
- AWS welding symbols and fabrication practices.
- Structural steel detailing.
- Plate nesting and material optimization.
- Fabrication sequencing and field erection methods.
- Document management systems and revision control.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work in an office environment with occasional visits to fabrication shops and construction sites.
- Ability to climb ladders and access elevated work areas during shop or field inspections.
- Ability to wear required PPE while visiting active fabrication or construction areas.
Work Environment
- Primarily office-based with periodic visits to fabrication facilities and project sites.
- Occasional travel may be required to support fabrication, field erection, or project meetings.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Drawing accuracy and completeness.
- On-time delivery of fabrication and erection drawings.
- Number of drawing revisions due to drafting errors.
- Accuracy of material takeoffs and bills of materials.
- Responsiveness to production and field support requests.
- Compliance with drafting standards and document control procedures.
- Customer and project team satisfaction.
Reporting Relationship
Reports To: Engineering Manager, Design Manager, or Project Manager
Works Closely With: Professional Engineers, Project Managers, Shop Foremen, Field Superintendents, Purchasing, Estimating, Quality Control, and Production Personnel.
