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Cad Trainee Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Parsons Corporation

CAD Specialist

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$88K - $154K/yr

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented CAD Specialist to join our team! Ready to be part of a team that tackles defense and data challenges? Want to take your construction/facilities skills to ...

Parsons

CAD Specialist

Annapolis Junction, MD

$88K - $154K/yr

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented CAD Specialist to join our team! Ready to be part ofa team that tackles defense and data challenges? Want to take your construction/facilities skills to ...

M&J Engineering

CAD Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

M&J is seeking a CAD Operator to provide drafting, design, and technical drawing support for WMATA's engineering and construction projects under the task order. Responsibilities * Create and update ...

M&J Engineering

CAD Operator

Arlington, VA

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

M&J is seeking a CAD Operator to provide drafting, design, and technical drawing support for WMATA's engineering and construction projects under the task order. * Create and update detailed 2D and 3D ...

M&J Engineering

CAD Operator

Arlington, VA

$22.25 - $30.50/hr

M&J is seeking a CAD Operator to provide drafting, design, and technical drawing support for WMATA's engineering and construction projects under the task order. Responsibilities * Create and update ...

Actalent

Cad Designer

Arlington, VA

$31 - $43/hr

Mechanical CAD Designer We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Mechanical CAD Designer to support advanced communication systems in Washington, DC. This hands-on role spans the full product ...

Actalent

Cad Designer

Arlington, VA

$31 - $43/hr

Mechanical CAD Designer We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Mechanical CAD Designer to support advanced communication systems in Washington, DC. This hands-on role spans the full product ...

Alternative Experts LLC

CAD Specialist II

Washington, DC · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

The CAD Specialist II supports architectural, engineering, and facility design projects by creating, modifying, converting, and standardizing CAD drawings using industry-standard software. This role ...

SOLTESZ

CAD Systems Administrator

Rockville, MD · On-site

What You'll Do CAD Systems Administration * Administer, configure, and maintain Bentley MicroStation and OpenRoads Designer environments * Manage workspaces, standards, user configurations, and ...

Actalent

Cad Designer

Columbia, MD

$37.02 - $40/hr

Job Title: CAD Designer/ Drafter This role focuses on creating precise 3D and 2D designs in SolidWorks to support the development of complex mechanical systems, including mooring stations and large ...

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All JobsCad JobsCad Trainee JobsCad Trainee Jobs in Washington

Cad Trainee information

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 Washington?

The most popular types of Cad jobs in Washington are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Washington are hiring for Cad Trainee jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Cad Trainee job openings:

Cad Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cad Trainee job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Specialist

West Mclean, VA • Hybrid

SMS Data Products Group, Inc.
IT Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about SMS Data Products Group, Inc.external

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

SMS is hiring a CAD Specialist to support our Base Infrastructure (BIM) contract. This position will create and maintain Computer-Aided Design (CAD) drawings, network topology diagrams, and technical
illustrations supporting network design, documentation, and operational requirements. This position is a hybrid position with work being remote, on base for surveys or at our office in McLean, VA as needed for meetings, work sessions, etc.

Since 1976, SMS has specialized in modernizing legacy IT and sustaining complex enterprise environments for federal agencies. With the goal of building long-term partnerships with our customers, we invest in our employees by providing the training, tools, and support they need to keep critical missions operational, improve performance, and reduce risk. SMS is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, with offices and on-site operations at customer locations throughout the United States. For additional information on SMS, visit www.sms.com.

Submit your resume today!

Job Responsibilities

  • Create and maintain Computer-Aided Design drawings, network topology diagrams, and technical illustrations supporting network design, documentation, and operational requirements
  • Develop detailed CAD drawings for Outside Plant fiber optic infrastructure, Inside Plant structured cabling, and network equipment layouts
  • Create network topology diagrams in DoDAF format including OV-1, OV-2, SV-1, and SV-2 viewpoints
  • Prepare as-built documentation incorporating redline changes from installations
  • Develop facility layout drawings showing Communications Equipment Location configurations
  • Create technical illustrations for proposals, documentation, and presentations
  • Maintain drawing libraries and version control
  • Coordinate with engineers and technical personnel gathering information for drawing development
  • Ensure drawings comply with technical standards and Government requirements
  • Utilize AutoCAD, Microsoft Visio, and other CAD/diagramming tools
  • Update drawings reflecting network changes and modifications

Required Qualifications

  • Possesses Associate's degree in drafting, CAD technology, or related field
  • Minimum 4 years of CAD technician experience.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD, Visio, and network diagramming tools required.
  • Some travel may be required for his position (5% or less)
  • DoD Secret security clearance required or the ability to successfully pass a background check and obtain an interim Secret clearance.

SMS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Req # 2026-5410

Apply