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Cad Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Supervise the activities of CAD Operators and Designers in support of product documentation, configuration management (CM) and documentation control. Work with project engineers and managers to ...

CAD Designer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$25.75 - $35.50/hr

Permanent, full time Reporting to: CAD Design Manager Your role in the mission: We are looking for an experienced CAD Designer who will be responsible for CAD designs for our stellarator fusion ...

CAD Designer

Portland, TN · On-site

$24.50 - $33.75/hr

Position: CAD Designer Travel: This position will require around 25% travel Job Summary The CAD Designer is a key member of the Alleguard technical/engineering team and is responsible for creating ...

SUE CAD Technician Work Location: Atlanta, GA Salary: Based on experience and will be discussed with manager in interview Position Overview: Accura is seeking a skilled SUE CAD Technician to join our ...

The CAD Design Manager at Type One Energy leads a team of design professionals responsible for delivering high-quality, precise CAD models, drawings, and documentation that support the development of ...

SUE CAD Technician Work Location: Atlanta, GA Salary: Based on experience and will be discussed with manager in interview Position Overview: Accura is seeking a skilled SUE CAD Technician to join our ...

SUE CAD Technician Work Location: Atlanta, GA Salary: Based on experience and will be discussed with manager in interview Position Overview: Accura is seeking a skilled SUE CAD Technician to join our ...

SUE CAD Technician Work Location: Atlanta, GA Salary: Based on experience and will be discussed with manager in interview Position Overview: Accura is seeking a skilled SUE CAD Technician to join our ...

CAD Designer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

As a CAD Designer at SpaceXAI, you will play a critical role in supporting the design and development of our state-of-the-art data centers and AI infrastructure. You will create detailed technical ...

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Cad Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$13

$20

$30

How much do cad operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for cad operator in Tennessee is $20.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cad Operator vs Draftsman?

AspectCad OperatorDraftsman
Required CredentialsTypically high school diploma; some roles may require CAD certificationHigh school diploma; often CAD training or certification
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, construction companiesArchitectural, engineering, or manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in construction, engineering, architectureUsed in architecture, engineering, manufacturing

Both Cad Operators and Draftsmen work with CAD software in similar environments, focusing on creating technical drawings. While their roles overlap, Cad Operators often handle more technical tasks and software operation, whereas Draftsmen may focus more on drafting and design details. The choice depends on specific job responsibilities and required certifications.

Is being a CAD operator hard?

Being a CAD operator requires attention to detail, proficiency with CAD software, and understanding technical drawings. The job can be challenging due to the need for accuracy and the ability to interpret complex designs, but it is manageable with proper training and experience.

What are CAD Operators?

CAD Operators, also known as Computer-Aided Design Operators, are professionals who use specialized software to create technical drawings, blueprints, and plans for a variety of industries, including architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. They translate ideas and specifications from engineers or architects into detailed digital designs that guide the construction or manufacturing process. CAD Operators must be skilled in using CAD software and interpreting technical information to ensure accuracy and compliance with industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by CAD Operators when working on collaborative design projects?

CAD Operators often work closely with architects, engineers, and other design professionals, which can present challenges related to version control, communication, and ensuring design intent is accurately represented. Miscommunication about revisions or project specifications can lead to errors or rework, so attention to detail and clear documentation are crucial. Many teams use shared platforms or project management tools to streamline collaboration, but adapting to different workflows and software standards may also be necessary.

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

To thrive as a CAD Operator, you need a solid understanding of drafting principles, technical drawing, and attention to detail, typically supported by a degree or certification in drafting or engineering technology. Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or MicroStation, along with familiarity with file management systems, is crucial. Strong problem-solving skills, communication, and the ability to collaborate with engineers and architects are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure accurate, efficient creation of technical drawings that support project success in engineering, architecture, and manufacturing.

Are CAD operators in demand?

CAD operators are in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, where precise technical drawings are essential. The job outlook is steady, with opportunities increasing as companies adopt advanced CAD software and require skilled technicians to produce detailed plans and models.

What does a CAD operator do?

A CAD operator creates detailed technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design software. They interpret engineering or architectural specifications, ensure accuracy, and often collaborate with engineers or architects to produce precise digital models for construction, manufacturing, or design projects.

What Is a CAD Operator?

CAD operators use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to create drawings and blueprints for a variety of products and buildings. They usually specialize in a specific field, such as architectural drafting, civil drafting, or mechanical drafting, and work closely with a team of engineers and architects to produce accurate and safe plans for each product. The job is essential in many industries, including architecture, aerospace, construction, engineering, and manufacturing.

Is CAD a high income skill?

CAD (Computer-Aided Design) is considered a valuable skill in many engineering, architecture, and manufacturing fields, often leading to higher-paying positions. While CAD proficiency can increase earning potential, overall income depends on experience, industry, location, and additional skills such as project management or specialized software knowledge.
What are popular job titles related to Cad Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Cad Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Cad Operator jobs in TN? For Cad Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Cad Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,192 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Drafter - CAD Operator (DR3)

BNH

Arnold Air Force Base, TN

$24.90/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Overview

Job Title: Drafter- CAD Operator

Location: Arnold AFB, TN

Job Family Code: O - Engineering

Function/Branch: Design & Manufacturing

Directorate: Engineering & Tech Support

Position Type: Regular, Full Time

Pay Type: Non-Exempt

Sponsorship: Position Not Sponsored

Grade: L05 (OA0501)

Minimum Starting Hourly Rate: $24.90 / hour     

 

Overview

Open to Internal/External candidates. Beyond New Horizons, LLC (BNH) has an exciting opportunity for a Drafter-CAD Operator, supporting TOS II, at Arnold Air Force Base in Arnold, TN. The Drafter will be working as a member of an integrated team responsible for supporting the United States Air Force Test Operations and Sustainment efforts.

Job Summary

Drafter-CAD operators will apply their software skills with commercial drafting programs to work with engineers and create designs for new systems and facilities, as well as modifications and upgrades to existing systems and facilities.

 

Primary responsibility for developing and maintaining:

  • Piping layout drawings and schematics for liquid and gaseous fluid system.
  • Single line drawings for low, medium, and high voltage power distribution systems
  • Facility and building layouts
  • Electrical drawings for process controls of facility & test systems
  • Machined Parts

Job Duties:

 

Under general supervision, and according to established standards and procedures, prepares engineering drawings from rough sketches, marked-up prints, or from general engineering and design information. Supervisor provides general instructions on new assignments, gives guidance when questions arise, and reviews completed work for accuracy.  Typical assignments may include:

 

  • Prepare complete engineering drawings or diagrams delineating equipment, engineered systems, structures and plant arrangements with sufficient detail in drawings to guide manufacturers in developing shop drawings and to guide construction in their work.
  • Generate 3-D CAD design models based on information from others
  • Work with engineers and other designers in the overall assignment to coordinate designs
  • Compile, maintain and access job drawing files, records, and drawing controls, as instructed
  • Make basic mathematical calculations related to the group's drawing responsibilities.
  • Prepare "as-built" drawings to reflect changes to designated work during construction, operations.
  • Complex revisions are produced from sketches, computer models or specifications that clearly depict the desired product.
  • As assigned, check work of less experienced drafters for accuracy, presentation, and compliance to AEDC drafting standards
  • Selects required information from computer programs, internet sites, precedents, manufacturers' catalogs, and technical guides.
  • Independently resolves most of the problems encountered. Supervisor or design originator may suggest methods of approach or provide advice on unusually difficult problems.
  • It is a condition of employment to wear company issued PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) in accordance with supervisory direction and company policy.
  • Perform other related duties as required.

 

Basic Qualifications:

 

  • Vocational school drafting certification that comprises of at least two semesters in Drafting or CAD operations or 9 semester hours of college with courses relevant to drafting and/or design plus a minimum of one year of relevant drafting & drawing experience. (Transcripts and curriculum must be submitted demonstrating relevant competencies have been achieved).
  • A minimum of four (4) years of progressive and relevant drafting experience or any combination of education/training and progressive and relevant experience
  • United States Citizenship is required

 

Preferred Qualifications

 

  • Experience with Autodesk software, particularly AutoCAD, Inventor, Plant 3D
  • Sound knowledge of CAD design and drafting techniques, engineering drawing, graphic arts, reading of drawings and reproduction methods used by the group
  • Experience with ASME Y14.5 GD&T
  • Basic computer skills such as use of Microsoft Office products, file naming, and computer folder structures
  • Skill in reading, interpreting and using related documents and drawings prepared by other project groups
  • Experience with AEDC design practices and processes
  • Experience with 3D modeling software
  • Current or prior Department of Defense Security Clearance

What We Offer

  • Competitive salaries
  • Continuing education assistance
  • Multiple healthcare benefits packages
  • 401K with employer matching
  • Paid time off (PTO) along with a federally recognized holiday schedule

 

U.S. Citizenship is required. At this time BNH will not sponsor any applicants for employment authorization or offer any immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1b, F1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, E-2, E-3, L-1, or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer).

The minimum and maximum full-time annual salaries for this role are listed below, by location. Please note that this salary information is solely for candidates hired to perform work within one of these locations and refers to the amount BNH is willing to pay at the time of this posting. Salaries for part-time jobs will be adjusted based upon the number of hours agreed to work.

$24.90/hour at location TN 

BNH is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, and any other grounds for discrimination prohibited by applicable law.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training

Employment Type: OTHER