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Civil Engineering Drafting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Essel

Civil 3D Designer/Drafter

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

Associate degree in Drafting, Civil Engineering Technology, or a related field. * 2+ years of experience in drafting and design with a focus on civil engineering projects. * Proficiency in AutoCAD ...

BKF

Drafter / Civil 3D Technician

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Support project teams with production drafting and document control * Coordinate with engineers and ... Support the office by staying up to date with Civil 3D tools and workflows, implementing best ...

BKF

Drafter / Civil 3D Technician

Brentwood, CA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Support project teams with production drafting and document control * Coordinate with engineers and ... Support the office by staying up to date with Civil 3D tools and workflows, implementing best ...

BKF

Drafter / Civil 3D Technician

Oakland, CA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Support project teams with production drafting and document control * Coordinate with engineers and ... Support the office by staying up to date with Civil 3D tools and workflows, implementing best ...

BKF

Drafter / Civil 3D Technician

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Support project teams with production drafting and document control * Coordinate with engineers and ... Support the office by staying up to date with Civil 3D tools and workflows, implementing best ...

BKF

Drafter / Civil 3D Technician

Oakland, CA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Support project teams with production drafting and document control * Coordinate with engineers and ... Support the office by staying up to date with Civil 3D tools and workflows, implementing best ...

BKF

Drafter / Civil 3D Technician

Clayton, CA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Support project teams with production drafting and document control * Coordinate with engineers and ... Support the office by staying up to date with Civil 3D tools and workflows, implementing best ...

BKF

Drafter / Civil 3D Technician

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Support project teams with production drafting and document control * Coordinate with engineers and ... Support the office by staying up to date with Civil 3D tools and workflows, implementing best ...

BKF

Drafter / Civil 3D Technician

Martinez, CA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Support project teams with production drafting and document control * Coordinate with engineers and ... Support the office by staying up to date with Civil 3D tools and workflows, implementing best ...

TSAC Engineering

Registered Civil Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$68 - $80/hr

TSAC Engineering is a growing Civil Engineering and Land Surveying firm with plenty of room for ... Ability to work independently and give instructions to designers and drafters. Desirable Experience:

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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 Jun 15, 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

Civil 3D Designer/Drafter

Essel

Carlsbad, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Essel is seeking a talented Civil 3D Designer/Drafter to join our engineering team and contribute to innovative civil engineering projects. As a Civil 3D Designer/Drafter, you will play a critical role in supporting the design and drafting processes for various projects, including land development, transportation, and municipal infrastructure.
Your responsibilities will include utilizing AutoCAD Civil 3D to generate detailed design models, drafting plans, and producing documentation that adheres to industry standards. You will collaborate with engineers and project managers to ensure design accuracy and functionality while meeting project specifications and deadlines.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Create and modify 2D and 3D designs using AutoCAD Civil 3D for grading, drainage, and alignment of civil projects.
  • Prepare construction drawings, including site plans, utility plans, and cross-sections.
  • Assist in the preparation of civil engineering reports and technical documentation.
  • Review and check plans for compliance with project specifications and local codes.
  • Coordinate with project teams to ensure that all aspects of design work are accurate and up to date.
  • Conduct field surveys and gather data to inform design decisions.

Requirements
Qualifications:
  • Associate degree in Drafting, Civil Engineering Technology, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in drafting and design with a focus on civil engineering projects.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D is required; additional knowledge of other CAD software is a plus.
  • Strong understanding of civil engineering principles, particularly in grading, drainage, and road design.
  • Ability to work collaboratively within a team and communicate effectively.
  • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Familiarity with local regulations and standards related to civil engineering projects.

Benefits
Numerous Company Events valuing Work/Life Balance
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

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