About this role
Position Overview
Van-Packer Company manufactures listed chimney, venting and grease duct exhaust systems for commercial and industrial applications. We are hiring a Drafter / Estimator to turn project drawings and specifications into accurate system layouts, cost estimates and supporting documentation for our stainless steel chimney exhaust and kitchen grease duct exhaust products.
In this position, you will work alongside our sales team, the engineers and contractors who specify our systems, and the manufacturing team that builds them. Your work ensures each project is designed correctly, priced competitively and fabricated to the requirements of its listing.
Candidates with a solid drafting or estimating background are encouraged to apply. Prior experience with grease duct codes is not required; we provide structured training on our products and the standards that govern them.
Primary Duties
- Analyze architectural and mechanical drawings, project specifications and bid documents to define the scope, materials and configuration of each exhaust system.
- Develop system layouts, detail drawings and shop drawings in SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
- Prepare cost estimates and formal quotations, including material takeoffs, labor estimates and bills of material.
- Assemble submittal packages, installation instructions and engineering specifications for customer and inspector review.
- Serve as a technical resource to the sales team, specifying engineers and contractors on product selection and application questions.
- Coordinate with manufacturing to confirm that quoted designs are practical to fabricate and consistent with applicable listings.
- Recommend design alternatives that reduce cost while maintaining quality, code compliance and listing integrity.
- Manage multiple active projects at once and meet bid and submittal deadlines.
Required Skills and Experience
- Associate degree in drafting, mechanical engineering technology or a related discipline, or equivalent hands-on experience.
- Working proficiency in SolidWorks. AutoCAD experience is a plus.
- Experience in mechanical drafting, estimating or quoting.
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical and architectural drawings accurately.
- Strong organizational skills and close attention to detail.
- Clear, professional written and verbal communication, by phone and email.
Preferred Background
- Experience in commercial or industrial HVAC, ventilation products or stainless steel fabrication.
- Familiarity with NFPA 96, UL 1978 and UL 2221.
- Experience with ERP, quoting or product configurator software.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook.
Training and Development
New team members receive structured onboarding that covers:
- Van-Packer product lines and system design practices.
- Applicable codes and listing standards, including NFPA 96, UL 1978 and UL 2221, and how listed assemblies shape design decisions.
- Our estimating and quoting process and ERP system.
Compensation and Benefits
- $20.00 to $23.00 per hour, commensurate with experience; overtime eligible
- Medical, dental and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Ongoing professional development and training
How to Apply
Qualified candidates should submit a resume to [email protected]. A cover letter is optional.
Drawing samples or a portfolio are welcome where prior employers permit sharing. Questions about the position may be sent to the same address.
Van-Packer Company
- 302 Mill Street, Buda, Illinois 61314
- vpstack.com
Van-Packer is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.