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Civil Engineering Drafting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DK Engineer Corp

CAD Drafter

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.50/hr

Experience in civil engineering drafting preferred but not required. Ready to Join Us? If you're ready to be part of a dynamic team that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence, we want to ...

Nasland Engineering

Civil Engineer Intern

San Diego, CA

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

AutoCAD Drafting * Project Research * Engineering Calculations * Occasional Administrative Duties Qualifications * Civil Engineering Student (Sophomore level or above) * Computer Experience * AutoCAD ...

Nasland Engineering

Civil Engineer Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

AutoCAD Drafting * Project Research * Engineering Calculations * Occasional Administrative Duties Qualifications * Civil Engineering Student (Sophomore level or above) * Computer Experience * AutoCAD ...

Nasland Engineering

Civil Engineer Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

AutoCAD Drafting * Project Research * Engineering Calculations * Occasional Administrative Duties Qualifications * Civil Engineering Student (Sophomore level or above) * Computer Experience * AutoCAD ...

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All JobsCivil Engineering Drafting JobsCivil Engineering Drafting Jobs in California

Civil Engineering Drafting information

See California salary details

$57.2K

$65.6K

$71.6K

How much do civil engineering drafting jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineering drafting in California is $65,616.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,700.00 and $69,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Civil Engineering Drafting professional typically collaborate with engineers and project managers on large infrastructure projects?

Civil Engineering Drafting professionals play a key role in project teams by translating engineers' calculations and designs into detailed technical drawings and plans. They regularly coordinate with civil engineers to ensure that drawings meet project specifications and comply with regulatory standards. Collaboration with project managers is also common, as drafters need to update plans based on project changes, field data, or feedback from construction teams. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential to ensure all stakeholders are aligned and project milestones are met.

What is civil engineering drafting?

Civil engineering drafting is the process of creating detailed drawings and plans for civil engineering projects such as roads, bridges, water systems, and buildings. Drafters use computer-aided design (CAD) software and traditional drafting techniques to produce technical diagrams that convey the specifications and dimensions needed for construction. These drawings serve as guides for engineers, architects, and construction crews to ensure projects are built accurately and safely.

What is the difference between Civil Engineering Drafting vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectCivil Engineering DraftingCivil Engineering Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; CAD certificationsAssociate degree in civil engineering technology or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD labsConstruction sites, design offices
Job FocusCreating detailed drawings and plansAssisting in project design, data collection, and site inspections
Industry UsageUsed by architects, engineers, drafting firmsEmployed by civil engineering firms, government agencies

While both roles support civil engineering projects, Civil Engineering Drafting primarily focuses on creating detailed technical drawings, whereas Civil Engineering Technicians assist with project implementation, data collection, and site work. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Civil Engineering Drafter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civil Engineering Drafter, you need proficiency in technical drawing, a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, and typically an associate degree in drafting or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software such as AutoCAD and Civil 3D, along with knowledge of GIS systems, is commonly required. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with engineers and meeting project deadlines. These skills ensure accurate, efficient design documentation that supports successful civil engineering projects.
What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineering Drafting jobs in California? For Civil Engineering Drafting jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Civil Engineering Drafting jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Civil Engineering Drafting jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Civil Engineering Drafting jobs? Cities in California with the most Civil Engineering Drafting job openings:
Civil Engineering Drafting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Engineering Drafting job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,616 per year, or $31.5 per hour.
Civil Engineering Operations Director

Civil Engineering Operations Director

Essel

Roseville, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Essel is seeking a dynamic and experienced individual for the role of Operations Director. As a leader in civil engineering, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions to our clients. The Operations Director will play a crucial role in overseeing and enhancing the performance of our Engineering, Drafting, and Survey Departments.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Interface with department heads and employees within Engineering, Drafting, and Survey Departments.
  • Enhance capabilities and performance of assigned employees while enforcing company policies and Engineering departmental processes.
  • Accountable for achieving group performance objectives and reporting status to the President.
  • Develop executable engineering processes using metrics within the Engineering Department.
  • Attend and lead meetings to resolve issues on specific projects.

Requirements

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a valid Professional Engineer license in the State of California.
  • Minimum 10+ years related experience and 5+ years of leadership experience.
  • Strong time management, complex problem-solving, and dispute resolution skills.
  • Excellent written/oral communication and Microsoft Office computer skills.

Benefits

Compensation Structure:

Base salary with discretionary increases dependent on metrics / performance

Job-Level Bonus Potential

o Bonus based on attainment of mutually agreed upon, annually established position-

specific metrics, key performance indicators, milestones, etc.

o Bonus based on attainment of subjective elements/components.

Enterprise-Level Bonus Potential (e.g., "Profit Sharing"), if applicable

o Discretionary bonus based on attainment of annually established enterprise-level

metrics, key performance indicators, milestones, etc.

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