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Cad Design Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

CAD Manager (Mid-Level)

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$45 - $56/hr

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Computer Aided Design (CAD) Manager to lead our CAD team (within a dynamic and collaborative engineering environment. The position is located in ...

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Computer Aided Design (CAD) Manager to lead our CAD team (within a dynamic and collaborative engineering environment. The position is located in ...

New

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Computer Aided Design (CAD) Manager to lead our CAD team (within a dynamic and collaborative engineering environment. The position is located in ...

New

CAD Specialist l

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Our CAD Specialist is a collaborative member of the project team responsible for delivering high quality architectural drawings and documentation with coordination between consultants and team ...

CAD Specialist l

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Our CAD Specialist is a collaborative member of the project team responsible for delivering high quality architectural drawings and documentation with coordination between consultants and team ...

CAD Specialist l

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Our CAD Specialist is a collaborative member of the project team responsible for delivering high quality architectural drawings and documentation with coordination between consultants and team ...

Deputy CAD Administrator

Seattle, WA ยท On-site +1

$50/hr

Deputy CAD Administrator Position Summary The Deputy CAD Administrator supports the overall management, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the company's CAD and design technology environment.

Job Title: CAD Drafter/Designer III Location: Lynnwood, WA Type: Contract Compensation: $32 per hour Work Model: Onsite Overview This is a mid-level CAD design role focused on creating detailed ...

CAD Manager

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

CAD Manager This is a permanent, full time position that offers a great salary and benefits package. Responsibilities: Train Junior Designers/Detailers the Autodesk Fabrication Suite, AutoCAD, Revit ...

Job Title: CAD Drafter/Designer III Location: Lynnwood, WA Type: Contract Compensation: $32 per hour Work Model: Onsite Overview This is a mid-level CAD design role focused on creating detailed ...

Job Title: CAD Drafter/Designer III Location: Lynnwood, WA Type: Contract Compensation: $32 per hour Work Model: Onsite Overview This is a mid-level CAD design role focused on creating detailed ...

CAD/CAE Engineer

Redmond, WA ยท On-site

$50 - $54.84/hr

Job Title: CAD/CAE Engineer Location: Redmond, Washington Type: 18 month contract Compensation: $50-54.84/hour depending on qualifications Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Overview Supports ...

CAD/CAE Engineer

Redmond, WA ยท On-site

$50 - $54.84/hr

Job Title: CAD/CAE Engineer Location: Redmond, Washington Type: 18 month contract Compensation: $50-54.84/hour depending on qualifications Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Overview Supports ...

CAD/CAE Engineer

Redmond, WA ยท On-site

$50 - $54.84/hr

Job Title: CAD/CAE Engineer Location: Redmond, Washington Type: 18 month contract Compensation: $50-54.84/hour depending on qualifications Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Overview Supports ...

CAD/CAE Engineer

Redmond, WA ยท On-site

$50 - $54.84/hr

Job Title: CAD/CAE Engineer Location: Redmond, Washington Type: 18 month contract Compensation: $50-54.84/hour depending on qualifications Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40.0 Overview Supports ...

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Cad Design information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$18

$35

$48

How much do cad design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for cad design in Seattle, WA is $35.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $40.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is CAD design?

CAD design stands for Computer-Aided Design, which involves using specialized software to create precise drawings, technical illustrations, and 3D models for engineering, architecture, and manufacturing. CAD designers use these tools to visualize concepts, test ideas, and create detailed plans that can be used for production or construction. This process helps improve accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration throughout the design and manufacturing stages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CAD designer?

To thrive as a CAD Designer, you need a solid understanding of engineering or architectural principles, proficiency in drafting, and typically an associate degree or certification in CAD or a related field. Mastery of CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is essential, along with familiarity with industry-specific standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help CAD Designers create precise drawings and collaborate effectively with engineers and clients. These skills ensure that designs meet technical requirements, project specifications, and support efficient project workflows.

What are some common challenges CAD designers face when working on collaborative projects?

CAD Designers often collaborate with engineers, architects, and other stakeholders, which can present challenges such as managing version control, ensuring compatibility between different software platforms, and integrating feedback from multiple sources. Effective communication and meticulous documentation are key to overcoming these hurdles. Many teams use project management tools and cloud-based CAD platforms to streamline collaboration and minimize errors, helping everyone stay aligned on project goals and timelines.

What is the difference between Cad Design vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectCad DesignMechanical Drafter
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or diploma in CAD, engineering, or related fieldsOften requires a diploma or certification in drafting or CAD
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesManufacturing plants, engineering firms, construction sites
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including architecture, engineering, manufacturingPrimarily in mechanical and industrial sectors
Job FocusCreating detailed 3D models and design conceptsPreparing technical drawings and schematics from designs

While both Cad Design and Mechanical Drafters work with technical drawings, Cad Design focuses on creating detailed 3D models and innovative designs, often requiring broader engineering knowledge. Mechanical Drafters primarily prepare technical drawings based on designs, emphasizing precision and adherence to specifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much does a CAD design earn?

A CAD designer's salary varies by experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 annually in many regions. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced CAD designers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $80,000 per year.

Is CAD design a good career?

CAD design is a viable career that involves creating detailed technical drawings using computer-aided design software, such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks. It offers opportunities in industries like engineering, architecture, and manufacturing, often requiring technical skills and certifications. The field can provide stable employment with potential for advancement and specialization.

What do CAD designers do?

CAD designers create detailed technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design software to develop products, structures, or mechanical components. They collaborate with engineers and architects, ensuring designs meet specifications and standards, often requiring knowledge of CAD tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Their work supports manufacturing, construction, and engineering projects from concept to completion.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Design jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Cad Design jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Cad Design jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Cad Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Cad Design job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,848 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

CAD Manager (Mid-Level)

Shannon & Wilson, Inc.

Seattle, WA โ€ข On-site

$45 - $56/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Shannon & Wilson is an employee-owned consulting firm headquartered in Seattle, Washington. Committed to technical excellence and high-quality service, we provide integrated geotechnical engineering, engineering geology, environmental, natural resource services, and hydraulic engineering for clients. Since 1954, we have delivered comprehensive engineering and environmental solutions for the most challenging infrastructure planning, design, permitting, and construction conditions.
We are dedicated to improving our communities, preserving the environment, and utilizing the most innovative science practices in all our work.
Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Computer Aided Design (CAD) Manager to lead our CAD team (within a dynamic and collaborative engineering environment. The position is located in Seattle, WA with a hybrid working policy. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in Autodesk and Bentley drafting and design programs, a basic understanding of geology and geotechnical design practices , and proven leadership skills to oversee drawing production, ensure quality control, and support engineering teams across multiple projects and offices.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead and manage the CAD design team, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
  • Develop and maintain Shannon & Wilson CAD standards and templates that are consistent in appearance with figures developed by others in other programs, such as GIS figures.
  • Manage incoming requests from and coordinate with engineers, scientists, project managers, and field staff to ensure accurate and timely delivery of drawings and design documents.
  • Oversee the preparation of Shannon & Wilson report figures, including site plans, geologic profiles and cross sections, grading plans, and geotechnical instrumentation layouts.
  • Prepare construction plan sheets in accordance with a variety of clients' CAD standards and formats, often for inclusion within a larger plan set organized by others.
  • Produce drawings and figures using a variety of modeling data, mapping, GIS data, gINT and BoreDM exports, 3D parametric modeling and advanced processing for 3D surfaces (point clouds, reality meshes, digital terrain models and raster imagery).
  • Ensure quality control and consistency across all CAD deliverables.
  • Manage project timelines and delegate drafting tasks based on workload and priorities.
  • Collaborate with IT and software support to maintain and upgrade CAD software, file organization and storage, databases, and hardware as needed.
  • Train staff in CAD best practices and new software tools.
  • Follow Shannon & Wilson's Quality Assurance policy.
  • Follow and promote Shannon & Wilson's Health & Safety and Loss Prevention policies and procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements
  • Associate or Bachelor's degree in CAD/Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field.
  • Minimum 7 years of CAD design experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership or managerial role.
  • Proficiency in Autodesk AutoCAD (standard for Shannon & Wilson format figures) and Bentley MicroStation (sometimes required or provided by clients), as well as experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D dynamic design elements (i.e., surfaces, alignments, profiles, corridors, etc).
  • Familiarity with National and A/E/C CAD standards.
  • Understanding [RR1] of topographic survey data, lidar data and earthwork design principles .
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and team leadership skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple deadlines and work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
  • Proficient in file management software, ProjectWise Design Integration, Autodesk Construction Cloud.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, required; MS Access, desirable).
  • Ability to learn other graphics programs, such as Photoshop, [RR4] gINT and BoreDM.
  • Must be personable, flexible and professional.
  • Must be able to work independently with a minimal level of supervision.
  • Must be willing and able to travel to support the needs of other Shannon & Wilson offices.
  • This position requires critical thinking and analysis, frequent sitting, standing, walking, bending, and lifting and carrying 30+ pounds.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in geotechnical engineering or related civil engineering field is strongly preferred.
  • Experience with geotechnical software integration (e.g., gINT, BoreDM, Rocscience, GeoStudio).
  • Experience with GIS platforms such as ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro.
  • Demonstrated experience with Python programming in combination with CADD, GIS and databases.
  • Knowledge of subsurface exploration and laboratory testing procedures.
  • Familiarity with construction documents, specifications, and permitting processes.
  • Experience with Bentley OpenRoads Designer (ORD).
  • Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM).

Level Placement:
Typically, depending on an applicant's education, experience, overall abilities, alignment with the needs of the company and local office culture, and the current business needs, a Mid-Level CAD Manager typically would be placed at a Shannon & Wilson Technical Services IV or Senior Technical Services level with compensation at $45.000 to $56.00 per hour.
Shannon & Wilson is committed to providing a comprehensive total rewards package that includes the following benefits:
  • Employee stock ownership
  • Medical, prescription, vision, dental, long-term care and life insurance plans are offered to employees (and their families).
  • Pre-tax health and daycare FSA
  • Profit sharing and 401(k) plans with annual safe-harbor contributions
  • 10 - 20 paid vacation days per year for full-time employees (prorated for part-time employment) based on years of experience
  • Paid Sick and Safe Leave accrues based on your state requirements
  • 9 paid holidays per year + 1 personal holiday
  • Paid volunteer day
  • Paid time off for bereavement and jury duty
  • Two weeks of paid parental leave
  • Lunch & Live wellness webinars and an Employee Assistance Program
  • Mentorship Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free parking

Shannon & Wilson is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Shannon & Wilson participates in the E-Verify program.
Please note that non-solicited resumes from external recruitment agencies will not be considered as introductions to our business, unless a preapproved agreement is in place and the external recruitment agency has been engaged to work on this specific vacancy.
Salary Description
$45.00 - $56.00 per hour