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Autocad Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Civil AutoCAD Designer - Minneapolis, MN or Milwaukee, WI We are seeking a Senior Civil AutoCAD Designer to lead the development of detailed civil engineering drawings, advanced Civil 3D ...

Job Summary The Electrical AutoCAD Designer supports the design and documentation of electrical systems for a large-scale microgrid and power distribution project. This is a remote position based out ...

Senior Civil AutoCAD Designer - Minneapolis, MN or Milwaukee, WI We are seeking a Senior Civil AutoCAD Designer to lead the development of detailed civil engineering drawings, advanced Civil 3D ...

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Job Summary Responsible for designing, detailing, and coordinating custom architectural and ... Key Responsibilities • Design custom metal fabrication projects using AutoCAD, including tables ...

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Job Summary Responsible for designing, detailing, and coordinating custom architectural and ... Key Responsibilities • Design custom metal fabrication projects using AutoCAD, including tables ...

We are seeking a motivated Junior AutoCAD Designer to join our team in Phoenix, AZ, with strong AutoCAD skills who enjoys working in a collaborative engineering environment. The Designer will support ...

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AutoCAD Designer/Drafter Pay: $20 Location: Northwest Houston (77040) Employment type: Temp (Full Time position can be offered if standards can be met) Position Summary: Seeking to hire talented ...

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AutoCAD Sheet Metal Designer Job Summary: We are seeking a detail-oriented AutoCAD Sheet Metal Designer to create accurate shop drawings, fabrication layouts, and production documentation for custom ...

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Autocad Designer information

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How much do autocad designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for autocad designer in the United States is $33.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $40.38 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 cities are hiring for Autocad Designer jobs? Cities with the most Autocad Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Autocad Designer jobs? The most popular types of Autocad Designer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Autocad Designer jobs? The top employers for Autocad Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Autocad Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Autocad Designer jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Autocad Designer jobs? For Autocad Designer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sr AutoCAD Designer

Sr AutoCAD Designer

HGA

Minneapolis, MN

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Senior Civil AutoCAD Designer - Minneapolis, MN or Milwaukee, WI

We are seeking a Senior Civil AutoCAD Designer to lead the development of detailed civil engineering drawings, advanced Civil 3D models, and fully coordinated construction documentation for a wide range of infrastructure and land development projects. In this senior technical role, you will collaborate closely with engineers, project managers, architects, planners, and crossdisciplinary teams to transform engineering concepts into accurate, buildable design solutions.

As a key technical leader, the Senior Civil AutoCAD Designer helps shape drafting standards, enhance production workflows, support QA/QC processes, and mentor junior designers. This position is ideal for someone with strong technical expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and a proactive, collaborative approach to delivering highquality civil design work.

In this role you will:

Civil Design & Technical Documentation

  • Lead the preparation and development of complex civil engineering drawings, plans, and construction documents for infrastructure and land development projects.
  • Produce highly detailed site layouts, grading plans, utility plans, roadway designs, profiles, sections, and related technical documentation.
  • Ensure design documents accurately reflect engineering intent, project requirements, constructability considerations, and applicable regulatory standards.
  • Coordinate drawing production across multiple project phases, including conceptual, schematic, design development, and construction documentation.

Civil 3D Modeling & Technical Coordination

  • Develop, manage, and refine advanced Civil 3D models, including grading, alignments, corridors, surfaces, utility systems, and pipe networks.
  • Utilize data shortcuts, reference management, and model coordination workflows to support efficient multidisciplinary project delivery.
  • Collaborate closely with civil engineers, architects, planners, landscape architects, and project managers to resolve design conflicts and support integrated project solutions.
  • Interpret engineering calculations, sketches, markups, and technical reports to create accurate and constructible design models and documentation.

Quality Assurance & Standards Management

  • Perform high-level QA/QC reviews of drawings and models produced by the design team to ensure technical accuracy, consistency, and compliance with internal standards and jurisdictional requirements.
  • Identify and resolve design conflicts, inconsistencies, and coordination issues proactively throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Support the development, maintenance, and continuous improvement of CAD standards, templates, libraries, and production workflows.
  • Promote consistency and best practices in drafting, file organization, model management, and project documentation.

Team Collaboration & Leadership

  • Serve as a technical resource and mentor for junior designers and drafting staff, providing guidance on Civil 3D workflows, production standards, and problem-solving approaches.
  • Support project managers and engineering teams in establishing production schedules, deliverable expectations, and coordination strategies.
  • Participate in project meetings and coordination discussions to support effective communication and project execution.
  • Contribute to a collaborative team environment focused on quality, accountability, continuous learning, and technical excellence.

You will need to have:

  • Associate or bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering Technology, Drafting, or a related discipline required.
  • Advanced training or certifications in AutoCAD Civil 3D strongly preferred.
  • 10+ years of progressive experience in AutoCAD and Civil 3D design within civil engineering, infrastructure, or land development environments.
  • Demonstrated experience leading complex drafting and modeling efforts for multidisciplinary projects.
  • Expert-level proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D, including: surfaces, grading , alignments, corridors, pipe networks , profiles and sections, data shortcuts and reference management.
  • Strong understanding of civil engineering design principles, including earthwork modeling, utility coordination, site grading, stormwater systems, and roadway geometry.
  • Experience integrating GIS datasets and coordinating models across multiple disciplines preferred.
  • Advanced ability to interpret engineering calculations, architectural plans, and technical drawings and translate them into accurate construction documentation.
  • Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently, and collaborate effectively within cross-functional project teams.
  • Strong communication and coordination skills, with the ability to provide mentorship and technical guidance to other designers. 

Salary Information:

The pay range listed aligns to the geography of the office for which this position is posted. Actual compensation will be based upon work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer. Individuals in this role working more than 24 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in HGA’s robust benefit programs which include an annual bonus and success sharing bonus program, 401(k) guaranteed contribution, paid parental leave, medical, dental and life insurance plans as well as PTO and short- and long-term disability programs. Salary Range: $89,300 - $118,200 depending on qualifications and experience.

Additional Information:

At HGA, you’ll do the best work of your career. We design with impact by diving deep into the people and passions that shape every place. Empathy fuels us, curiosity drives us, and meaningful work leads to innovation. We celebrate individuality, embrace flexibility, and thrive together in the office three days a week.

Join our nationally recognized, award-winning team of architects, engineers, and interior designers—help us shape what’s next.

Learn more about us here

Application Requirements & Instructions

Please submit resume for consideration 



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About HGA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Architectural services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1953