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3D Drafting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

KGEL STEEL, inc.

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Industrial Engineering Drafting/ Designer

La Sierra, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Create AutoCAD drafting 2D and Dassault SOLIDWORKS 3D shop drawings for our shop fabrication department. Develop plan view and elevation drawings for installation purposes. Perform Drawing Checker ...

KGEL STEEL, inc.

Be Seen First

Industrial Engineering Drafting/ Designer

La Sierra, CA · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Create AutoCAD drafting 2D and Dassault SOLIDWORKS 3D shop drawings for our shop fabrication department. Develop plan view and elevation drawings for installation purposes. Perform Drawing Checker ...

Certified Employment Group

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AutoCAD Drafter

Lincoln, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Experience with CAD drafting software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, MicroStation, and/or Navisworks. * Strong understanding of drafting principles, mechanical design concepts, and technical ...

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3D Drafting information

What is the difference between 3D Drafting vs 2D Drafting?

Aspect3D Drafting2D Drafting
Skills & CertificationsProficiency in 3D modeling software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit), basic CAD skillsProficiency in 2D CAD software, technical drawing standards
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, architecture, engineering, manufacturingArchitectural firms, engineering, construction
Industry UsageUsed for detailed visualizations, complex assemblies, and simulationsUsed for technical drawings, blueprints, and construction documents

3D Drafting involves creating three-dimensional models that provide detailed visualizations and simulations, while 2D Drafting focuses on flat technical drawings and blueprints. Both require CAD skills, but 3D Drafting offers more advanced visualization capabilities, making it ideal for complex projects and presentations.

How to become a 3D draftsman?

To become a 3D draftsman, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SolidWorks. Pursuing a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree in drafting, engineering, or architecture can improve job prospects, and gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions is valuable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3D drafter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3D Drafter, you need strong spatial visualization, attention to detail, and proficiency in drafting principles, usually backed by a degree or certification in drafting, engineering, or a related field. Expertise with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, along with knowledge of industry standards, is typically required. Effective communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with engineers and architects set standout professionals apart. These skills are essential for producing accurate, high-quality designs that meet project specifications and facilitate seamless teamwork.

What is 3D drafting?

3D drafting is the process of creating three-dimensional representations of objects or structures using specialized computer-aided design (CAD) software. Unlike traditional 2D drafting, which only shows height and width, 3D drafting incorporates depth, allowing for more accurate visualizations and detailed models. This is widely used in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing to design, analyze, and present complex projects. By using 3D drafting, professionals can detect potential design issues, improve communication, and streamline the fabrication or construction process.

How much does a 3D Drafting make?

The average salary for a 3D Drafting professional typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled drafters proficient in CAD software and with certification can earn higher salaries, especially in specialized fields like engineering or architecture.

What are some common challenges 3D drafters face when collaborating with engineers and architects?

3D Drafters often work closely with engineers and architects, and one common challenge is ensuring that design revisions are accurately reflected in the 3D models and drawings. Miscommunication or delayed updates can lead to discrepancies in project documentation. Effective collaboration requires strong attention to detail, clear communication, and proficiency with various design software to keep all team members aligned and projects on schedule.
What are popular job titles related to 3D Drafting jobs in California? For 3D Drafting jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 3D Drafting jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for 3D Drafting jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for 3D Drafting jobs? Cities in California with the most 3D Drafting job openings:
3D Drafting jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3D Drafting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Senior SDS Substation Designer 1 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Santa Ana, CA • Hybrid

$77K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 446 rated engineering

Job description

Description

This position allows for a hybrid work schedule with a mix of work spent in office and working remote from home. 

  • As a Senior 3D Substation Physical Designer, you will be working in a project team environment with engineers preparing a high and or extra high voltage substation design package with minimum guidance. Produce a 3D Model that would generate the following drawings: General Arrangement, Electrical Equipment Plans, Sections, Electrical Connection Details, Foundation Plans, Grounding Plans, Grounding Details, Conduit and Trench Plans, Conduit Details, Control Building Layout, Control Building Details, Bill of Material, Cable Schedules, and a Shielding Plan. Using Inventor, AutoCAD, P4A and SDS software.
  • Interpret and incorporate vendor information into design deliverables.
  • Conduct walkdowns at client substation facilities.
Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Education/Experience Requirements:

  • An Associate's Degree in Drafting, and/or a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Technology, and/or a high school diploma and 5 or more years of 3D drafting course work or equivalent technical experience.
  • A minimum of 10 years preparing 3D substation models and physical design experience.
  • Proficient with working in 3D using AutoCAD, Inventor, P4A, Vault Pro and SDS.
  • Ability to visualize in 3D, layout substation equipment based on a clients and or IEEE standards.
  • Able to follow a CAD standard. 

Valued Knowledge/Skills:

  • An Associate's Degree in Computer Aided Design.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology, including the ability to relate various equipment to a technical design.
  • Able to use BlueBeam to create a BOM count, review and self-check drawings.
  • Knowledge using AutoCAD Electrical.
Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range$77,890 - $118,999Transparency StatementSargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.Equal Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Sargent & Lundy

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Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media

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