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Cad Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary: CAD Engineer: We are seeking an experienced CAD Engineer to model structures and building components for Plant projects utilizing our next-generation Plant Building System (PBS ...

CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$110K - $250K/yr

Collaborate with design engineer, verification engineer, IT, and EDA vendor to optimize EDA license usage * Drive innovation by researching and implementing advanced CAD methodologies that either ...

CAD Engineer As an Astranis CAD Engineer you will design, develop, configure, and maintain spacecraft components and assemblies like bracketry, harnesses, propulsion manifolds, and waveguides. You ...

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Manufacturing CAD Engineer

Lebec, CA · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

Manufacturing CAD Engineer Location: California (Remote/Hybrid) We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing CAD Engineer to join an innovative team focused on advanced off-site construction and ...

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Manufacturing CAD Engineer

Lebec, CA · On-site

$120K - $125K/yr

Manufacturing CAD Engineer Location: California (Remote/Hybrid) We are seeking an experienced Manufacturing CAD Engineer to join an innovative team focused on advanced off-site construction and ...

Description TFX is looking for a highly skilled CAD designer/engineer to join our team. This role is for someone who is truly strong in CAD-not just basic part modeling, but advanced surface modeling ...

CAD Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$27.50 - $30/hr

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 ...

TFX is looking for a highly skilled CAD designer/engineer to join our team. This role is for someone who is truly strong in CAD--not just basic part modeling, but advanced surface modeling, complex ...

We have an urgent opening for CAD Engineer and the is as follows : Location: Fremont, CA Duration: FTE Keywords: Solid works, ECO Mandatory Skills: Solid Works, ECO/ECM Process, Communication ...

CAD Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

Astranis designs, builds, and operates its satellites out of its 153,000 sq. ft. headquarters in Northern California, USA. CAD Engineer As an Astranis CAD Engineer you will design, develop, configure ...

NVIDIA is searching for a motivated CAD Engineer to join the Advanced Technology Group. You will support installation of foundry techfiles. You will provide expert support to designers in debugging ...

NVIDIA is searching for a motivated CAD Engineer to join the Advanced Technology Group. You will support installation of foundry techfiles. You will provide expert support to designers in debugging ...

Morgan Hill, CA (5 Days Onsite) As a Senior CAD/PLM Systems Administrator or CAD Engineering Manager with deep expertise in PTC Creo and Windchill (or equivalent PLM platforms) who can own the global ...

IC CAD Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$124K/yr

As an IC CAD Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting the Cadence Virtuoso platform and LEF file generation in a custom design environment at AMD. You will work with CAD team members to ...

As a CAD Design Engineer, you will be crucial in supporting and improving the products that are already powering some major electrification programs. Rather than starting from a blank sheet of paper ...

Description As a CAD engineer on this team, you will play a pivotal role working closely with the Product Design Engineering Team in 3D and 2D CAD. You will provide support in advanced CAD surfacing ...

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Cad Engineer information

See California salary details

$43.4K

$91.9K

$149K

How much do cad engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for cad engineer in California is $91,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $117,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cad Engineer vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectCad EngineerMechanical Drafter
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, CAD certificationsAssociate's or diploma in drafting, CAD training
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesArchitectural and engineering drafting departments
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, product design, constructionArchitectural, mechanical, and manufacturing industries

Cad Engineers and Mechanical Drafters both work with CAD software, but Cad Engineers focus on designing and analyzing engineering projects, while Mechanical Drafters create detailed technical drawings. Cad Engineers typically have a broader role involving engineering principles, whereas Mechanical Drafters specialize in drafting detailed mechanical components.

How much do CAD engineers earn?

CAD engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Salary can also vary based on the complexity of projects and the use of advanced CAD software tools.

What Is a CAD Engineer?

A CAD engineer is a highly skilled technician that works with computer-aided design (CAD) computer software. In this career, you specialize in designing complex buildings, machinery, and even automobiles using programs like AutoCAD. You may work with both two dimensional and three-dimensional designs. 2D modeling is referred to as surface modeling, as opposed to solid modeling, which is the 3D approach. Your job duties include creating detailed designs on your computer, translating design requirements into a finalized design specification, and presenting your designs to customers and management.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. High-level roles often involve leadership responsibilities, complex projects, and working in high-demand industries or locations with higher cost of living.

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

To thrive as a CAD Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, proficiency in drafting and design, and typically a degree in mechanical, civil, or related engineering fields. Expertise in CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA, and familiarity with industry standards are essential, with certifications in these tools often preferred. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with teams and translate concepts into precise technical drawings. These competencies ensure the accurate and efficient development of design projects, reducing errors and streamlining product development.

What does a CAD engineer do?

A CAD engineer designs, develops, and modifies detailed technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design (CAD) software. They work closely with engineers and architects to create accurate models for manufacturing, construction, or product development, often requiring knowledge of engineering principles and proficiency in CAD tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks.

What are CAD Engineers?

CAD Engineers are professionals who use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed technical drawings and plans for products, structures, or systems. They work in industries such as engineering, architecture, manufacturing, and automotive, translating concepts and specifications into precise digital models. CAD Engineers often collaborate with other engineers and designers to refine designs, ensure accuracy, and support the manufacturing or construction process.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering with extensive experience and advanced skills can earn $500,000 or more annually. High compensation often involves leadership roles, bonuses, stock options, or working in high-demand industries with complex projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Cad Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Cad Engineer jobs in California? For Cad Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cad Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Cad Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Cad Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Cad Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Cad Engineer jobs in CA? For Cad Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cad Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,910 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
CAD Engineer

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Summary: CAD Engineer:

We are seeking an experienced CAD Engineer to model structures and building components for Plant projects utilizing our next-generation Plant Building System (PBS) components. Joining a small, but rapidly growing engineering team, the PBS CAD Engineer will follow Plant’s industry-leading best practices to create shop drawings, takeoffs, machine files, and executable BOMs. The position will also work with factory management and production teams to continuously improve Plant’s virtual fabrication and operational processes, driving production efficiency and accuracy with a design-for-manufacture mindset. This position reports to the Manager of Engineering.


Core Responsibilities: CAD Engineer:

  • Seamlessly integrate Revit files and PDF plans to CAD and CAM data as required.
  • Create fully executable BOMs for material ordering and project costing, cut lists for material optimization, and construction drawings for production. Continue to iterate on each, striving for world-class quality and processes.
  • Create and maintain detailed standard operating procedures for CAD processes to achieve production efficiencies and drive productivity.
  • Develop virtual build process initiatives to manage projects from design-for-manufacture through the virtual fabrication process and its implementation into the Plant production system.
  • Create detailed quality control protocols for the virtual build process; conduct tests and quality assurance checks to verify the quality of information output (autonomous quality).
  • Spearhead various research and development initiatives to identify new methods and opportunities for process improvement.
  • Communicate and collaborate with other managers, suppliers, and contractors.
  • Prepare and deliver various Plant Virtual Build/CAD presentations, both internally and externally, as required for business needs.
  • Ensure adherence to Plant standard processes, procedures, and corporate health, safety, and sustainability goals.
  • Perform other activities as assigned to support the success of the organization.

Required Skills: CAD Engineer:
  • B.S. in engineering, architecture, building science, or related technical discipline
  • A minimum of four years of experience in building design, covering various types of structures.
  • Minimum of three years’ experience in 3D modeling, preferably of business or residential structures using CadWork;
  • Experience in creating coordination plans, detailed shop drawings, and installation manuals, with a strong understanding of aligning design intent with on-site execution and ensuring clear, precise documentation for fabrication and installation teams
  • Analytical and mathematical mindset, capable of evaluating and solving complex problems
  • Excellent time management, organization, and project management skills with a demonstrated ability to keep projects, processes, and virtual information on track
  • Knowledge of typical manufacturing facilities, terminology, and industrial operations (experience in automated fabrication, facility layout, and production workflow is a plus)
  • Experience in modular and panelized construction, including familiarity with design, fabrication, and assembly processes specific to these construction methods.
  • Ability to interpret SMEPF (Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire protection) construction documents and understand their integration within the overall building design.
  • Understanding of general construction building systems, with specific expertise in light frame construction (experience in heavy timber and mass timber is a plus).
  • Creative problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze inefficiencies and problems, identify root causes, and provide effective solutions
  • Enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced, timeline-driven startup environment that requires a high degree of self-motivation
  • A team player with a positive attitude and ability to work with cross-functional teams in a multi-cultural setting
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, excellent interpersonal communication skills, and the ability to explain technical information to non-technical audiences
  • Interest in and ability to mentor less experienced staff
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office