ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cad Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Essel

CAD Designer

Whittier, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Develop intricate part and assembly models using SolidWorks 3D CAD * Design components to meet manufacturing specifications, including sheet plastic routing, fusion welding, sheet metal bending ...

Industrial Threaded Products

CAD Drafter

Ontario, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Prepare technical CAD drawings for assigned projects. Job Responsibilities * Creating Technical Drawings: Drafting precise technical drawings, plans, and diagrams using CAD software based on ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

CAD Designer

Concord, CA · On-site

$76K/yr

As a CAD Designer, you will prepare layout drawings and schematic diagrams of temporary works plans under the direction of the Construction Engineering Group. Your role will be crucial in ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

CAD Designer

Concord, CA

$76K/yr

As a CAD Designer, you will prepare layout drawings and schematic diagrams of temporary works plans under the direction of the Construction Engineering Group. Your role will be crucial in ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

CAD Designer

Concord, CA · On-site

$74K - $76K/yr

As a CAD Designer, you will prepare layout drawings and schematic diagrams of temporary works plans under the direction of the Construction Engineering Group. Your role will be crucial in ...

ATA Engineering, Inc

CAD Designer

CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

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 ...

DK Engineer Corp

CAD Drafter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.50/hr

Are you a skilled CAD Drafter looking to contribute to exciting and innovative civil engineering projects in Southern California? DK Engineer Corp (DKE) is seeking a talented individual to join our ...

CesiumAstro

Principal CAD Designer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$28.75 - $39.75/hr

We are looking to add a Principal CAD Designer to our team. If you are great at what you do, enjoy working in a startup environment, and are passionate about developing leading-edge hardware for ...

CesiumAstro

Principal CAD Designer

El Segundo, CA

$48.50 - $58.35/hr

We are looking to add a Principal CAD Designer to our team. If you are great at what you do, enjoy working in a startup environment, and are passionate about developing leading-edge hardware for ...

Aequor

CAD Designer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$29.50 - $40.75/hr

Please visit www.aequor.com for additional information The CAD designer will be required to rely on experience and training to accomplish goals with minimal supervision. Create/update AutoCAD ...

CesiumAstro

Principal CAD Designer

El Segundo, CA

$28.75 - $39.75/hr

We are looking to add a Principal CAD Designer to our team. If you are great at what you do, enjoy working in a startup environment, and are passionate about developing leading-edge hardware for ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsCad JobsCad Trainee JobsCad Trainee Jobs in California

Cad Trainee information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$35

How much do cad trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for cad trainee in California is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $23.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CAD trainee?

CAD trainees are entry-level professionals who are learning to use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and plans used in industries like architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. They work under the supervision of experienced CAD technicians or engineers to develop their skills in drafting, modeling, and interpreting design specifications. CAD trainees typically assist with creating and modifying digital blueprints, ensuring designs meet project requirements and industry standards. Their training period is focused on mastering CAD software, understanding technical drawings, and gaining practical experience in design processes.

What are some typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for a CAD trainee during the first six months on the job?

As a CAD Trainee, your initial responsibilities will likely include creating and modifying basic technical drawings under the supervision of experienced designers or engineers. You'll gain hands-on experience with industry-standard CAD software, learn to interpret engineering sketches, and become familiar with company drafting standards and procedures. Collaboration with project teams is common, and you'll often participate in review meetings to understand the project workflow. Over time, you'll have the opportunity to take on more complex assignments and receive feedback to enhance your technical and problem-solving skills.

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

To thrive as a CAD Trainee, you need a solid grounding in technical drawing, spatial reasoning, and basic engineering or architectural principles, typically supported by a relevant diploma or coursework. Familiarity with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is essential, and CAD certification can be advantageous. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and strong communication skills help trainees excel in team environments and adapt to project requirements. These skills ensure accurate design outputs, efficient collaboration, and a strong foundation for career growth in technical drafting roles.

What is the difference between Cad Trainee vs CAD Designer?

AspectCad TraineeCAD Designer
QualificationsBasic CAD training, diploma or certificateAdvanced CAD skills, degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised tasksIndependent project work, client interactions
Experience LevelEntry-level, learning phaseMid-level, professional experience required
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with CAD drawings, learning softwareCreating detailed CAD designs, revisions

The main difference between a Cad Trainee and a CAD Designer is experience and responsibility. A Cad Trainee is typically in training, focusing on learning CAD software and gaining foundational skills. In contrast, a CAD Designer is a more experienced professional responsible for producing detailed designs and managing projects independently.

How to become a CAD Trainee with no experience?

To become a CAD Trainee with no experience, focus on gaining basic knowledge of CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks through online tutorials or courses. Building a portfolio of simple projects and obtaining relevant certifications can improve your chances, and some employers may offer on-the-job training for entry-level candidates.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cad jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cad jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Cad Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cad Trainee job openings:

Cad Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cad Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,414 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

CAD Designer

Essel

Whittier, CA • On-site

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago

Job description

Are you passionate about design and fascinated by crafting top-tier custom industrial machinery and automation systems? 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 meet manufacturing specifications, including sheet plastic routing, fusion welding, sheet metal bending, waterjet cutting, CNC machining, and more
  • Create and refine production engineering drawings (assemblies, components, layouts) ensuring timely delivery within budget
  • Collaborate closely with production teams, aligning designs with fabrication and assembly processes for efficient manufacturing
  • Generate and manage bills of materials for mechanical assemblies
  • Maintain meticulous organization of CAD files using SolidWorks Product Data Management system for file storage, revisions, and lifecycle management
  • Actively engage in Design Reviews to optimize design concepts
  • Conduct thorough checks on drawings prepared by Engineers and other Designers to ensure compliance with design standards and best practices

Requirements

Qualifications:

  • CAD certification or a two-year technical AA degree
  • 5 years of work experience
  • Proficiency in SolidWorks CAD and PDM at an advanced level
  • Demonstrated portfolio showcasing strong 3D modeling skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
  • Self-motivated, accountable, and committed to continual improvement
  • Collaborative team player with cross-functional skills

Preferred Skills:

  • Proficiency in Plan and Elevation system views using AutoCAD Mechanical
  • Experience in piping systems design and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
  • Administration expertise in Product Data Management systems
  • Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks design modules (frames, routing, sheet metal, large assemblies)
  • Structural analysis familiarity using SolidWorks Simulation FEA
  • Understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing as per ANSI Y14.5
  • Capability in electrical schematic creation using AutoCAD Electrical

Benefits

Competitive Salary, Medical, Dental, and Vision, 401K, Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays