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Cad Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

CAD Designer

Fresno, CA · On-site

$52 - $76/hr

The CAD Designer role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role also supports project objectives ...

New

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 ...

The CAD Administrator serves as the primary technical administrator for Configuration and Data Management and the Engineering department, supporting complex engineering tools including CAD, modeling ...

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 ...

CAD Drafter

Salida, CA · On-site

$25 - $38/hr

CAD DrafterPay: $25-$38/hr (DOE)Schedule: Full-timeBenefits: 401k, Medical - Dental - Vision - Life - FSA - Aflac, 9 Paid Holiday'sRole OverviewThe CAD Drafter supports the Engineering team by ...

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 ...

CAD Designer

Fremont, CA

$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 ...

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CAD Draftsperson

Riverside, CA · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Job Summary Aleph Group Inc. is seeking an experienced CAD / SolidWorks Designer with a strong background in fabrication and manufacturing . The ideal candidate will be comfortable taking concepts ...

CAD Drafter Pay: $25-$38/hr (DOE) Schedule: Full-time Benefits: 401k, Medical - Dental - Vision - Life - FSA - Aflac, 9 Paid Holiday's Role Overview The CAD Drafter supports the Engineering team by ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Cad information

See California salary details

$19.7K

$88.3K

$137.2K

How much do cad jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for cad in California is $88,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $107,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are CAD jobs?

CAD, or computer-aided design, is used in a variety of fields. For example, you might be a building architect that uses a drafting program to create a set of blueprints. You could also be an engineer for construction projects, where you use CAD to create 3D models of building or product schematics. Another job possibility is in electrical engineering, where you use CAD to design a circuit schematic. You don’t need artistic skills in this career, but you need training in programs like AutoCAD.

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

To thrive as a CAD Designer, you need proficiency in drafting, engineering principles, and technical drawing, typically supported by a degree in engineering, architecture, or a related field. Expertise in computer-aided design software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, as well as relevant certifications, is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set outstanding CAD Designers apart. These skills are critical to producing accurate, efficient designs that meet project requirements and facilitate collaboration in engineering and architectural environments.

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

CAD professionals often encounter challenges when collaborating on design projects, such as managing version control, ensuring compatibility across different software platforms, and maintaining clear communication with team members from various disciplines. It's essential to establish standardized file naming conventions, use centralized data management systems, and participate in regular project meetings to align on design changes and updates. By proactively addressing these challenges, CAD professionals can contribute to smoother workflows and more successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Cad vs Draftsman?

AspectCadDraftsman
CredentialsOften requires CAD software proficiency, certifications like AutoCAD or RevitTypically has technical drawing training, sometimes certifications in drafting
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, engineering companies, architecture officesArchitectural, engineering, or construction firms
Industry UsageUsed across architecture, engineering, manufacturingPrimarily in architecture and engineering
Job FocusDesign, modeling, and drafting using CAD softwareCreating detailed technical drawings and plans

Cad professionals focus on designing and modeling using CAD software, while Draftsmen primarily produce detailed technical drawings based on specifications. Both roles are essential in architecture and engineering, but Cad roles often involve more digital design work, whereas Draftsmen focus on detailed documentation.

Is CAD a good career?

CAD (Computer-Aided Design) is a viable career path for those interested in engineering, architecture, or manufacturing, as it involves creating detailed technical drawings using specialized software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. The profession offers opportunities in various industries, often requiring technical skills, certifications, and attention to detail, with job stability and potential for advancement. However, success depends on continuous skill development and staying current with industry tools and standards.

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

The most popular types of Cad jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cad jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cad job openings:

Infographic showing various Cad job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,255 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 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