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Cad Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer

CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Develop 3D CAD models and production-ready drawings, in collaboration with engineering team, to support design, documentation, fabrication, assembly, and other product development activities.

CAD Drafter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.50/hr

DK Engineer Corp (DKE) is seeking a talented individual to join our dynamic team and help us ... As a CAD Drafter at DKE, you will play a crucial role in the design and construction process ...

CAD Designer

Whittier, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $39.50/hr

Join our team of engineers dedicated to delivering excellence to our esteemed clientele! Responsibilities: * Develop intricate part and assembly models using SolidWorks 3D CAD * Design components to ...

No CAD Engineer Company: Hitachi Particle Engineering and Services, Inc. Location: Pleasanton, CA Status: 6 - 12 month contract (eligible for extension) The Company Hitachi Particle Engineering and ...

CAD Designer

Whittier, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Join our team of engineers dedicated to delivering excellence to our esteemed clientele! Responsibilities: * Develop intricate part and assembly models using SolidWorks 3D CAD * Design components to ...

Ensure robustness, scalability, and maintainability of developed solutions Required Qualifications * 5+ years of experience in CAD/EDA development or related engineering roles * Strong programming ...

CAD Designer

Whittier, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Join our team of engineers dedicated to delivering excellence to our esteemed clientele! Responsibilities: * Develop intricate part and assembly models using SolidWorks 3D CAD * Design components to ...

Senior Staff CAD Engineer Position Description : Protingent Staffing has an exciting contract Senior Staff CAD Engineer with our client located in San Jose, CA. * We are looking for a senior IC EDA ...

CAD Designer

Fresno, CA · On-site

$26.75 - $37/hr

Purpose The CAD Designer role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO ... Draft layouts, sections, and details based on engineer-directed designs and predefined ...

CAD Drafter

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24 - $32.25/hr

ITT) is a diversified global leading manufacturer of highly engineered critical components and ... Experience in CAD design/drafting of CNC machined components (metal and plastics) and injection ...

CAD Designer

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

Develop 2D/3D CAD drawings and models based on engineering specifications. * Implement and utilize Everidge drafting standards and quality plan procedures relating to drafting technique and ...

The Sr. Aircraft Layout & CAD Engineer supports aircraft configuration development, vehicle layout, packaging, and structural design integration for advanced air vehicle concepts. This role develops ...

CAD Designer

Palm Springs, CA

$27.25 - $37.75/hr

CAD Designer Troy Bankord Design is looking for an individual possessing the following qualifications for fill-in work: Proficient in AutoCAD , Cad, SketchUp, Photoshop, Rhino and perhaps working ...

Showing results 41-60

Cad Developer information

See California salary details

$16

$27

$50

How much do cad developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for cad developer in California is $27.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $41.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CAD developer?

CAD Developers are professionals who design, develop, and customize software applications for Computer-Aided Design (CAD) systems. They work with programming languages and CAD APIs to create tools that automate design processes, enhance functionality, or integrate CAD software with other systems. CAD Developers often collaborate with engineers, architects, and designers to improve productivity and tailor CAD tools to specific industry needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CAD developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CAD Developer, you need a solid background in computer-aided design, programming (often in C++, Python, or similar languages), and a relevant degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard CAD software (such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA) and experience with APIs or plugin development are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding CAD Developers apart. These skills ensure the creation of robust, efficient design solutions and seamless collaboration on complex engineering projects.

What are some common challenges faced by CAD developers when collaborating with engineering teams?

CAD Developers often encounter challenges related to aligning software functionalities with the specific requirements of engineering teams. Communication gaps can arise when translating complex engineering needs into technical CAD features, especially in multidisciplinary projects. Additionally, keeping up with frequent design changes and ensuring software compatibility with various industry standards can require adaptability and proactive problem-solving. Building strong relationships and maintaining open channels of communication with engineers are essential for overcoming these obstacles and delivering effective CAD solutions.

What is the difference between Cad Developer vs CAD Designer?

AspectCad DeveloperCAD Designer
Required CredentialsProficiency in CAD software, programming skills, sometimes certifications in CAD or software developmentProficiency in CAD software, design skills, often a degree in design or engineering
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesDesign studios, engineering departments, architecture firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries requiring custom CAD tools, automation, or software solutionsUsed in architecture, product design, engineering for creating detailed drawings

While both roles work within the CAD industry, Cad Developers focus on creating and customizing CAD software and tools through programming, whereas CAD Designers primarily create detailed technical drawings and designs using CAD software. The roles often overlap in industries like engineering and manufacturing, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

Is CAD developer still a good career?

A CAD developer role involves creating and modifying computer-aided design software or tools, often requiring knowledge of programming languages like C++ or Python. The demand for CAD developers remains steady in industries such as engineering, architecture, and manufacturing, especially as digital design and automation grow. Strong technical skills and familiarity with CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks enhance job prospects in this field.

What are popular job titles related to Cad Developer jobs in California?

For Cad Developer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cad Developer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cad Developer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cad Developer jobs in CA?

For Cad Developer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cad Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,253 per year, or $27 per hour.

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

ATA is seeking a CAD designer with a strong interest in designing and supporting fabrication and testing activities for all types of mechanical hardware across a variety of industries, including themed entertainment, aerospace and defense, and industrial machinery. The successful candidate will be able to quickly adapt to new projects, support multiple concurrent projects, collaborate frequently with small and medium-sized engineering teams, and be open to occasional travel to customer sites. Professional experience working with SolidWorks, NX, or a similar CAD program (modeling and drafting) is essential. This is a full-time position (40 hours per week with benefits and occasional overtime). ATA is headquartered in San Diego, California, but serves clients globally.
LOCATIONS:
San Diego
13290 Evening Creek Drive South
San Diego, California 92128
Colorado
Colorado - 1597 Cole Boulevard, Ste 375,
Lakewood, Colorado 80401
Alabama
308 Voyager Way NW, Suite 102,
Huntsville, Alabama 35806
Washington DC
13665 Dulles Technology Drive, Suite 350,
Herndon, Virginia 20171
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develop 3D CAD models and production-ready drawings, in collaboration with engineering team, to support design, documentation, fabrication, assembly, and other product development activities.
  • Produce and review production-ready assembly and detail drawings, applying annotations, notes, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) elements consistent with the ASME Y14.5 standard.
  • Produce other design documentation such as parts lists, schematics, and design review materials.
  • Apply basic design principles to identify, size, and select commercial off-the-shelf mechanical components for engineering designs.
  • Maintain and apply fundamental knowledge of manufacturing processes for commonly used engineering materials.
  • Apply basic design principles in developing and checking structural and mechanical designs, including connections.
  • Interface with suppliers to support the procurement of prototype or production components and assemblies.
  • Occasionally support fabrication and functional testing of mechanical systems.

Requirements:
The ideal candidate would have all of the following skills.
  • Must be a US Person.
  • Computer-Aided Drafting and Design degree (A.S.) or similar; alternatively, three or more years of mechanical design and/or fabrication and assembly experience.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to customer sites (within and outside of California).
  • Substantial professional experience with solid design (3D modeling) and computer-aided drafting (2D). Recent experience with SolidWorks or Siemens NX (or both) is a significant advantage. Experience with other 3D or 2D CAD packages, such as Creo, Inventor, and AutoCAD, will be considered. Experience with managing large assemblies in a CAD environment is a plus.
  • Ability to make drawings consistent with the ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards.
  • Ability to select and size appropriate hardware from commercial off-the-shelf inventory for mechanical designs.
  • Excellent English verbal and written communication skills enabling preparation of clear and precise documentation.
  • Strong technical skills (engineering software, mechanical aptitude, office and productivity software).
  • Strong interpersonal skills and experience working in technical teams.
  • Ability to work productively without close supervision.
  • Experience designing flight hardware including the following elements is a plus: mechanisms, flexures, honeycomb panels, composites, glass, optical components, and mechanical fasteners.
  • Experience designing ground-based mechanical equipment and heavy structures (bolted construction and/or welded) is a plus.
  • Experience designing mechatronic and robotic systems is a plus.
  • Experience with machine tools (mill, lathe, drill press, etc.) is a plus.

Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
Salary Range:
  • Early Career Professional: $60,000-$90,000 per year
HOW TO APPLY
We appreciate your interest in ATA Engineering and request that you submit the following materials if you are qualified and wish to join our team of employee-owners at ATA Engineering:
  • A current résumé or CV.
  • A copy of your up-to-date college transcripts. You may email them, or request that an official transcript be sent directly to the address below. If your transcript contains identifying information such as Social Security Number and/or date of birth, please delete this information prior to submitting your transcripts.
  • A statement confirming that you meet the definition of a US person as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62.

Please note: we prefer electronic copies of all documents, but you may also mail them to the address below if necessary. Many of our contracts require access to government, defense, and classified information. We cannot consider your application unless you are a US Person. Unless you specifically state otherwise in your cover letter or email, you will be considered for all current openings at all ATA locations. Once we have reviewed your qualifications, you will be contacted by email regarding the status of your application.

ATA Engineering logo

About ATA Engineering

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

2000