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Autocad Designer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Designer II

Tustin, CA · On-site +1

$70K - $90K/yr

ROLE The Designer II coordinates or undertakes the design development, production, and delivery of ... Proficient technical knowledge of AutoCAD, 3D modeling and Revit * Sketching skills required

Plumbing Revit Designer

Corona, CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Summary A respected mechanical contractor is seeking a skilled Plumbing Revit Designer to support ... Proficiency in Revit (AutoCAD experience a plus) * Ability to read and interpret construction ...

Plumbing Revit Designer

Norco, CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Summary A respected mechanical contractor is seeking a skilled Plumbing Revit Designer to support ... Proficiency in Revit (AutoCAD experience a plus) * Ability to read and interpret construction ...

Principal CAD/BIM Designer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

AutoCAD/Civil 3D proficiency would be of benefit. Why Hazen and Sawyer: * Founded in 1951 by the ... Training/mentoring less experienced designers * Reviewing models and drawings for less experienced ...

Designer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

The Designer provides design and consultative services to clients and internal sales staff for ... Intermediate to Advanced AutoCAD/CET proficiency & Project Matrix * Demonstrated space planning and ...

Designer

Ontario, CA · On-site +1

$28 - $35/hr

About this Role A Designer at HBK Engineering is a dynamic individual adding their technical ... Proven AutoCAD, AUD, and/or Microstation skills preferred. * We are seeking five or more years of ...

Designer

Ontario, CA · On-site

$28/hr

About this Role A Designer at HBK Engineering is a dynamic individual adding their technical ... Proven AutoCAD, AUD, and/or Microstation skills preferred. * We are seeking five or more years of ...

Designer

Ontario, CA · On-site +1

$28 - $35/hr

A Designer at HBK Engineering is a dynamic individual adding their technical expertise to our ... Proven AutoCAD, AUD, and/or Microstation skills preferred. * We are seeking five or more years of ...

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Autocad Designer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$16

$34

$54

How much do autocad designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for autocad designer in Riverside, CA is $34.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.82 and $42.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an AutoCAD Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an AutoCAD Designer, you need a strong background in drafting, technical drawing, and spatial visualization, typically supported by a degree or certification in design, architecture, or engineering. Proficiency in AutoCAD software, and familiarity with related tools like Revit or SolidWorks, are essential, with many employers preferring candidates who hold Autodesk Certified Professional credentials. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication are key soft skills that set standout designers apart. These skills ensure precise, efficient, and collaborative design solutions that meet client requirements and industry standards.

What are AutoCAD Designers?

AutoCAD Designers are professionals who use AutoCAD software to create detailed technical drawings and plans for a variety of projects, such as buildings, machinery, and products. They interpret specifications and sketches from engineers or architects and translate them into precise, digital blueprints. AutoCAD Designers play a crucial role in the design and production process by ensuring accuracy and compliance with industry standards. Their work is essential in fields like architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction.

What Does an AutoCAD Designer Do?

The responsibilities of an AutoCAD designer include drafting original designs using CAD software to create 3D drawings starting from a sketch. In this career, you revise drawings and ensure they meet client specifications and required standards. As a draftsman, you help the engineer prepare and develop plans, estimate costs, and determine the parts needed for each project. Depending on the business you work for, you may create drawings for various applications, including electrical, structural, control, HVAC, and more. Other duties include completing paperwork to track project costs, filing engineering drawings, and ensuring workers complete the job safely and efficiently.

Is CAD designer a good career?

A CAD designer is a skilled professional who creates detailed technical drawings using computer-aided design software, often in fields like architecture, engineering, or manufacturing. The career offers steady demand, opportunities for specialization, and the potential for advancement with experience and certifications. Success depends on technical skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with industry standards and tools like AutoCAD or Revit.

What is the salary of an AutoCAD designer?

The salary of an AutoCAD designer typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher wages. Salaries also vary based on the complexity of projects and the work environment.

What CAD job pays the most?

Senior CAD designers, especially those specializing in complex projects like mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering, tend to earn the highest salaries in CAD-related roles. Advanced skills, certifications, and experience with software like AutoCAD, Revit, or SolidWorks can also increase earning potential, often reaching six-figure salaries for top-tier professionals.

What are some common challenges Autocad Designers face when collaborating with engineers and architects on complex projects?

Autocad Designers often work closely with engineers and architects, and one common challenge is ensuring that design revisions and updates are accurately incorporated across all project documents. Miscommunication or delays in sharing updated drawings can lead to inconsistencies and rework. Successful designers are proactive in coordinating with team members, using clear file-naming conventions, and staying organized to manage multiple project versions. Additionally, understanding technical requirements and design intent from different stakeholders helps minimize errors and streamlines the workflow.

What is the difference between Autocad Designer vs Civil Drafter?

AspectAutocad DesignerCivil Drafter
CredentialsAutocad certification, drafting experienceDrafting certifications, often with civil engineering background
Work EnvironmentArchitectural, engineering, or design firmsConstruction, civil engineering, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageDesign and drafting of various projects including architecture and engineeringPreparation of civil engineering plans and maps

Autocad Designers and Civil Drafters both use AutoCAD software and often work in similar environments. However, Autocad Designers typically focus on creating detailed designs across multiple industries, while Civil Drafters specialize in civil engineering plans for infrastructure projects. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers find the right fit for their skills and career goals.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters, including AutoCAD designers, perform detailed technical drawings that require creativity and understanding of complex design concepts. While AI tools can assist with automating repetitive tasks and generating basic drafts, they are unlikely to fully replace skilled drafters who provide critical analysis, customization, and quality control in design projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Autocad Designer jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Autocad Designer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Autocad Designer jobs in Riverside, CA? For Autocad Designer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Autocad Designer jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Autocad Designer jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Autocad Designer jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Autocad Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Autocad Designer job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,617 per year, or $34.4 per hour.
Senior Structural Designer 2 - Grid

Senior Structural Designer 2 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Santa Ana, CA • Hybrid

$85K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

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

  • As a member of the substation design team, this position will offer you the opportunity to work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in developing both AIS and GIS Substation Electrical physical layout drawings in both 2D and 3D model.
  • Challenging assignments that include the design of substation structures and foundations, and investigating, trouble-shooting, and solving a wide variety of structural design issues.
  • Utilize 3D modeling software tools to generate electrical design schematics.
  • Participate in the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of an integrated substation design model.
  • Provide support to other designers and project team members in order to ensure a complete and timely design.
  • Independently and as a member of a design team, plan and execute structural design deliverables.
  • There may be the opportunity to accompany and assist senior designers and engineers in field walkdowns and data gathering at client facilities.
  • Provide guidance to others in the use of drafting tools, and also as a mentor in the development of less experienced drafters and designers.

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

Essential skills and experience:

  • An Associate's Degree in drafting, or a high school diploma and 1 or more years drafting course work or equivalent technical experience.
  • Twelve (12) or more years of detailed structural design experience in the development of foundation plans, foundation details,  structure details.
  • Basic substation physical design knowledge.
  • Proficiency using MicroStation or AutoCAD with design software tools in executing 3D plant layout models.
  • Experience in the review of structural drawings involving electrical substation equipment outlines and interface points.
  • Ability to interface with engineering and design teams of other disciplines in the substation design process.

Valued but not required experience:

  • Proficiency with MicroStation, Bentley Descartes, AutoCad, Raster Design, Inventor, SDS and or Bentley Substation.

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

$85,679 - $130,899
Sargent & 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.

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.


Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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

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