How to hire engineering drawing specialists
Engineering drawings have always played a critical role in the product design and development process. From 2D blueprints to 3D models, an engineering drawing specialist can help you draft physical product designs fit for the assembly line.
So how do you hire engineering drawing specialists? What follows are some tips for finding top engineering drawing specialists on Upwork.
How to shortlist engineering drawing professionals
As you’re browsing available engineering drawing consultants, it can be helpful to develop a shortlist of the contractors you may want to interview. You can screen profiles on criteria such as:
- Industry fit. You want an engineering drawing specialist who understands your industry so they can help you figure out how best to reach your target market.
- Project experience. Screen candidate profiles for specific skills and experience (e.g., creating a CAD model for 3D printing).
- Feedback. Check reviews from past clients for glowing testimonials or red flags that can tell you what it’s like to work with a particular engineering drawing specialist.
How to write an effective engineering drawing job post
With a clear picture of your ideal engineering drawing specialist in mind, it’s time to write that job post. Although you don’t need a full job description as you would when hiring an employee, aim to provide enough detail for a contractor to know if they’re the right fit for the project.
An effective engineering drawing job post should include:
- Scope of work: From 2D blueprints to 3D models, list all the deliverables you’ll need.
- Project length: Your job post should indicate whether this is a smaller or larger project.
- Background: If you prefer experience with certain industries, software, or tools, mention this here.
- Budget: Set a budget and note your preference for hourly rates vs. fixed-price contracts.
Ready to create the engineering drawings that will help manufacturers bring your products to life? Log in and post your engineering drawing job on Upwork today.
ENGINEERING DRAWING FAQ
What is an engineering drawing?
Engineering drawings are more than mere pictures; they contain technical specifications such as dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing requirements that are needed to manufacture a product.
Here’s a quick overview of the skills you should look for in engineering drawing consultants:
- Engineering (e.g., mechanical, electrical, civil)
- 3D design and modeling
- CAD (computer-aided design) tools such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks
- Product design
Why hire engineering drawing specialists?
The trick to finding top engineering drawing specialists is to identify your needs. Are you looking for an automotive engineer to draft a new type of ball bearing in AutoCAD? Or do you need an electrical engineer to draft your PCB design in Cadence Allegro? The cost of your project will depend largely on your scope of work and the specific skills needed to bring your project to life.
How much does it cost to hire an engineering drawing specialist?
Rates can vary due to many factors, including expertise and experience, location, and market conditions.
- An experienced engineering drawing specialist may command higher fees but also work faster, have more-specialized areas of expertise, and deliver higher-quality work.
- A contractor who is still in the process of building a client base may price their engineering drawing services more competitively.
Which one is right for you will depend on the specifics of your project.