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Computer Aided Design Jobs in Norfolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

The successful candidate will leverage advanced engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD), rapid prototyping, fabrication, and field testing to deliver innovative solutions that meet ...

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DESIGNER 3 @ NNS

Newport News, VA · On-site

$31.13 - $40.95/hr

This role requires strong proficiency in both 2D and 3D CAD tools and extensive experience with shipboard piping or HVAC system design. Key Responsibilities * Design components and portions of ...

CAM Programmer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

The CAM Programmer will be well-versed in computer aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (Mastercam). The person in this position will be required to interface with both engineering and ...

Showing results 41-60

Computer Aided Design information

See Norfolk, VA salary details

$11

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$45

How much do computer aided design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer aided design in Norfolk, VA is $25.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.30 and $28.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computer aided design (CAD)?

Computer Aided Design (CAD) refers to the use of computer software to create, modify, analyze, or optimize a design. CAD is widely used by engineers, architects, and designers to produce precise technical drawings and 3D models. It streamlines the design process, enhances productivity, and allows for easy revisions and detailed documentation. CAD software can be used for a range of applications, including architecture, mechanical engineering, product design, and more.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer aided design (CAD) designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Aided Design (CAD) Designer, you need strong spatial reasoning, technical drawing abilities, and a background in engineering, architecture, or a related field. Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, and sometimes certifications like Autodesk Certified Professional, are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills for collaborating with teams and interpreting project requirements. These abilities are essential for producing accurate, efficient designs that meet client specifications and industry standards.

What are some typical challenges faced by computer aided design (CAD) professionals in collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams?

CAD professionals often work closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure that digital designs translate effectively into real-world products. A common challenge is maintaining clear communication to address design changes, manufacturability concerns, and technical specifications. CAD specialists must balance precision with adaptability, frequently updating models based on feedback while ensuring all documentation is current. Successful collaboration requires strong attention to detail, an understanding of technical requirements, and the ability to use project management tools to track revisions.

What is the difference between Computer Aided Design vs Drafting Technician?

AspectComputer Aided DesignDrafting Technician
CredentialsCAD certifications, technical degreesAssociate degree or diploma in drafting or engineering technology
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturingArchitectural, engineering, or manufacturing settings
Industry UsageDesign and product developmentCreating technical drawings and plans
Primary FocusCreating detailed 3D models and designsProducing precise 2D drawings and schematics

Computer Aided Design (CAD) professionals focus on creating detailed 3D models and designs using specialized software, often involved in product development and engineering. Drafting Technicians primarily produce technical 2D drawings and schematics based on engineers' or designers' concepts. While both roles require technical skills and familiarity with drafting tools, CAD specialists typically handle complex modeling, whereas Drafting Technicians focus on precise technical documentation.

Is computer-aided design a good career?

Computer-aided design (CAD) is a viable career that involves creating technical drawings and models using specialized software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. It requires technical skills, attention to detail, and often a relevant degree or certification; job prospects are strong in industries such as engineering, architecture, and manufacturing.

What jobs can you do with computer-aided design?

Computer-aided design (CAD) skills open opportunities in fields such as architecture, engineering, product design, and manufacturing. Common roles include CAD technician, design engineer, architectural drafter, and mechanical designer, often requiring proficiency with CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. These jobs typically involve creating detailed technical drawings and models for construction, manufacturing, or product development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Aided Design jobs in Norfolk, VA?

The most popular types of Computer Aided Design jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Computer Aided Design jobs in Norfolk, VA?

For Computer Aided Design jobs in Norfolk, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Computer Aided Design jobs in Norfolk, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Computer Aided Design jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

What cities near Norfolk, VA are hiring for Computer Aided Design jobs?

Cities near Norfolk, VA with the most Computer Aided Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Aided Design job openings in Norfolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 75% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,422 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Mid-Level Drafter 2 (Power & Lighting Electrical Design) - 29578

HII's Mission Technologies division

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Create and refine technical drawings and models supporting engineering and manufacturing operations.

  • Use CAD tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Inventor to produce detailed technical drawings and 3D models.

  • Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure designs meet operational and project requirements.


Job description

Requisition Number: 29578 

Required Travel: 11 - 25%

Employment Type: Full Time/Hourly/Non-Exempt

Anticipated Salary Range: $51,396.00 - $70,000.00 

Security Clearance: Ability to Obtain  

Level of Experience: Mid 

This opportunity resides with Global Security (GS). Mission Technologies' Global Security (GS) group comprises live, virtual, constructive (LVC) solutions; fleet sustainment; nuclear and environmental; and Australia business.
As a trusted partner to our military customers, HII designs, develops and operates the largest LVC enterprise that prepares warfighters for cross-domain battle. With advanced technologies to enable mission readiness, HII understands that preparation requires full coordination-not readiness in piece-parts.
For more than 40 years, the U.S. Navy has entrusted HII to maintain and modernize the vast majority of its fleet. With a holistic approach to life-cycle maritime defense systems-from small watercraft to submarines, surface combatants and aircraft carriers-HII ensures a high state of readiness.
HII supports the Department of Energy's national security mission through the management and operation of its sites, as well as the safe cleanup of legacy waste across the country. HII meets clients' toughest nuclear and environmental challenges.

Leadership Mindset at HII - Mission Technologies

Leadership at HII is a mindset, not a title. Through our Leadership Capability Framework, we define how every employee grows, leads, and contributes-regardless of role. It sets the standard for how you can develop yourself and what you can expect from leaders across our organization. We look for candidates who want to grow in alignment with these capabilities:

  • Know & Grow Your People - Commit to learning and supporting team success.
  • Build Relationships - Communicate openly, collaborate well, and build trust.
  • Take Ownership - Deliver on commitments and take pride in your work.
  • Customer First - Focus on the mission and those we serve.
  • Shape the Future - Bring ideas, curiosity, and continuous improvement.
  • Act with Urgency - Take initiative and follow through with purpose.

These capabilities guide how all employees contribute to our shared success across Mission Technologies.

Summary

Join HII as we keep the world's most powerful Navy afloat! We are seeking a skilled Drafter 2 with experience in Power and Lighting Electrical Design to join our team. In this role, you will create and refine complex technical drawings and models that support both engineering and manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, proficient with CAD tools, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. This is a full-time postion located in Virginia Beach, VA.

Essential Job Responsibilities
  • Design components or system elements and update existing designs to improve products or streamline manufacturing.
  • Use computer-aided design tools such as CAD, CAM, or CATIA.
  • Gather technical information, conduct studies, perform calculations, and produce original layouts and sketches.
  • Create detailed and accurate technical drawings and 3D models using CAD software.
  • Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure designs meet operational and project requirements.
  • Interpret and analyze design specifications and project needs.
  • Develop and maintain design documentation, including drawings, specifications, and reports.
  • Participate in design reviews and development meetings, providing technical insight.
  • Stay current on industry trends and new design technologies.
What You Must Have
  • Associates Degree or other 2 year technical degree in related discipline and 1 year of related experience; or High School Diploma or equivalent and 3 years related experience.
  • Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Inventor.
  • Strong knowledge of design principles, standards, and best practices.
  • Experience working in fast-paced environments with tight deadlines.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Experience in Power and Lighting Electrical Design.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
  • Flexibility to support changing Department of Defense project schedules.
Preferred Requirements
  • Experience performing shipchecks.
  • Familiarity with Record Selected Drawings.
  • Knowledge of Ingalls Shipyard Standards.
  • A current, active security clearance.
  • Experience in the Ship industry. 
Physical Requirements
Office, industrial or shipboard environment. Capable of climbing ladders and tolerating confined spaces and extreme temperature variances during site surveys. Lifting and moving of materials not to exceed the guidelines set for one man lift. Must be able to perform site surveys and carry a lap top computer.


The listed salary range for this role is intended as a good faith estimate based on the role's location, expectations, and responsibilities. When extending an offer, HII's Mission Technologies division takes a variety of factors into consideration which include, but are not limited to, the role's function and a candidate's education or training, work experience, and key skills.
Meet HII's Mission Technologies Division
Our team of more than 7,000 professionals worldwide delivers all-domain expertise and advanced technologies in service of mission partners across the globe. Mission Technologies is leading the next evolution of national defense - the data evolution - by accelerating a breadth of national security solutions for government and commercial customers. Our capabilities range from C5ISR, AI and Big Data, cyber operations and synthetic training environments to fleet sustainment, environmental remediation and the largest family of unmanned underwater vehicles in every class. Find the role that's right for you. Apply today. We look forward to meeting you.
To learn more about Mission Technologies, click here for a short video: https://vimeo.com/732533072
HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a new future. We offer competitive benefits such as best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices; wellness resources; employee assistance programs; Savings Plan Options (401(k)); financial planning tools, life insurance; employee discounts; paid holidays and paid time off; tuition reimbursement; as well as early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships. Bonus/other non-recurrent compensation is occasionally offered for qualified positions, and if applicable to this role will be addressed by the recruiter at the screening phase of application.
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. Our workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Do You Need Assistance? 
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address. Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #3 for HII Mission Technologies.