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Computer Aided Drafting Design Jobs in California

Drafting / CAD Technician This role focuses on supporting a line of patient-specific medical implants by creating precise SolidWorks models and related documentation. You will collaborate closely ...

New

In this role, your CAD expertise will directly support field crews and project teams by turning ... Strong proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D and computer-aided drafting practices. Ability to read and ...

... drafting (CAD) tools. As part of the Product Care Team, the role is supporting all Product Change Management as well as supporting active projects / programs with documentation needs. Reports to:

... drafting (CAD) tools. As part of the Product Care Team, the role is supporting all Product Change Management as well as supporting active projects / programs with documentation needs. Reports to:

CAD Designer

CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

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 ...

Principal CAD Designer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$48.50 - $58.23/hr

Provide advanced CAD drafting and design support throughout the product development lifecycle using SolidWorks. * Generate, modify, and maintain detailed 3D models, assemblies, engineering drawings ...

Principal CAD Designer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$48.50 - $58.23/hr

Provide advanced CAD drafting and design support throughout the product development lifecycle using SolidWorks. * Generate, modify, and maintain detailed 3D models, assemblies, engineering drawings ...

Principal CAD Designer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$28.75 - $39.75/hr

Provide advanced CAD drafting and design support throughout the product development lifecycle using SolidWorks. * Generate, modify, and maintain detailed 3D models, assemblies, engineering drawings ...

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Drafting/Design, or related ... Minimum of five (5) years of professional experience producing electrical CAD designs using ...

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Computer Aided Drafting Design information

See California salary details

$14

$26

$42

How much do computer aided drafting design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer aided drafting design in California is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is computer aided drafting design?

Computer Aided Drafting Design (CADD or CAD) is the use of computer software to create precise drawings and technical illustrations for engineering, architecture, and manufacturing projects. CAD professionals use specialized tools to develop 2D and 3D models, which help visualize and communicate design concepts. This technology improves accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration compared to manual drafting methods, and is essential in fields like construction, automotive, aerospace, and product design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer aided drafting design professional?

To thrive as a Computer Aided Drafting Design (CADD) professional, you need a solid understanding of drafting principles, spatial reasoning, and technical drawing, typically supported by an associate degree or certificate in drafting or engineering technology. Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, along with familiarity with relevant industry codes and standards, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with engineers and interpreting complex design requirements. These skills ensure accurate, efficient creation of technical drawings that meet project specifications and facilitate smooth teamwork in engineering and architectural environments.

What are some common challenges faced by computer aided drafting design professionals when collaborating with engineering teams?

Computer Aided Drafting Design (CADD) professionals often work closely with engineers and architects, which requires clear communication to accurately interpret technical specifications and design changes. A common challenge is ensuring that all team members are on the same page when project requirements are updated, as miscommunication can lead to costly revisions. Additionally, CADD professionals may need to adapt quickly to new software tools or industry standards, and must balance precision with efficiency to meet tight deadlines. Regular meetings, thorough documentation, and proactive communication are key strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Computer Aided Drafting Design vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectComputer Aided Drafting DesignMechanical Drafter
CredentialsTypically requires a certificate or associate degree in CAD or draftingRequires a similar technical degree or certification in mechanical drafting
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesManufacturing plants, engineering departments, construction sites
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including architecture, engineering, manufacturingPrimarily in mechanical engineering and manufacturing sectors
Job FocusCreating detailed technical drawings using CAD softwarePreparing mechanical drawings and plans based on engineering specifications

Computer Aided Drafting Design and Mechanical Drafter roles both involve creating technical drawings, but CAD Design focuses on using software to develop detailed plans across multiple industries, while Mechanical Drafters specialize in mechanical engineering drawings for manufacturing and machinery. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but their work environments and industry applications differ slightly.

Is computer-aided drafting design a good career?

Computer-aided drafting design (CADD) is a viable career that involves creating technical drawings and plans using software like AutoCAD or Revit. It offers opportunities in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, often requiring technical skills and certifications, with job stability and potential for advancement.

Is there a demand for computer aided drafting design drafters?

Computer Aided Drafting Design drafters are in steady demand across industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, especially as building projects and product development grow. Proficiency in CAD software like AutoCAD or Revit and relevant certifications can enhance job prospects, which are expected to remain stable or grow in the coming years.

What can I do with a computer aided drafting design certificate?

A Computer Aided Drafting Design certificate prepares individuals for roles such as CAD technician or drafter, enabling them to create detailed technical drawings and plans using CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. This certification can improve job prospects in architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction industries, often requiring proficiency with design tools and technical standards.

What cities in California are hiring for Computer Aided Drafting Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Computer Aided Drafting Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Computer Aided Drafting Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,130 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Computer Aided Drafting & Design (CADD) Instructor (Part-Time Faculty Pool) Fresno City College

Fresno, CA • On-site

State Center Community College District
Education • 1 - 5K employees

$45.49 - $61.78/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


State Center Community College District rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Posting Details
Announcement Information
Posting Number
Title
Computer Aided Drafting & Design (CADD) Instructor (Part-Time Faculty Pool) Fresno City College
Campus Location
Fresno City College
Start Date
Essential Functions of Position
The ideal candidate will share Fresno City College's commitment to educating its racially and socioeconomically diverse student population. We currently enroll over 22,000 students of which 56% are Latinx, 10% are Asian/Pacific Islander, 5% are African American, 22% are White, and 6% are multiracial. FCC is a Hispanic-Serving Institution, reflecting the great responsibility that the College has to the educational attainment and economic well-being of the surrounding community. The successful candidate will join a department dedicated to the use of curriculum responsive to the students it serves.
Providing instruction in Computer Aided Drafting & Design (CADD), on the Fresno City College campus and/or at off-site community campus locations, the instructor will be responsible for:
  • Instructing on the principles, operation, and skills in drawing a complete set of working drawings for a project that includes a bill of materials and specifications using a computer;
  • Strong emphasis in Computer Aided Drafting/Design using AutoCAAD, SolidWorks and Geomagics software;
  • Drafting skills including sketching, geometric construction, orthographic projection, axonometric projection, section and auxiliary views;
  • Dimensioning including tolerancing, threads, fasteners, precision measurement, sheet metal, manufacturing process and welding representation;
  • Reverse engineering using CMM and laser scanners, technical report writing including research and oral presentation;
  • Designing projects meeting client requirements and producing preliminary and presentation drawings;
  • Prototype design projects using additive manufacturing processes, laser cutting and engraving, soft tooling, vacuum forming, plastic injection molding and applying finishes;
  • Duties may include assignments in a variety of instructional settings and times, including evening and/or weekends, on-line or off-campus, and large group instruction classes as needed; and
  • Otherwise fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of instructors as required by Administrative Regulation 7122.

Minimum Qualifications
  • A bachelor's degree and two years of directly related professional experience;
    OR
  • An associate degree and six years of directly related professional experience;
    OR
  • A valid California Community College credential;
    OR
  • The equivalent education and/or experience (requires and equivalency).
    All candidates must have evidence of responsiveness to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, as these factors relate to the need of equity-minded practices within the classroom.

Desirable Qualifications
  • Knowledge and recent experience applicable to courses in Computer Aided Drafting & Design, for example, sketching, mechanical drafting, dimensioning and tolerancing, manufacturing processes, design and working drawings, sheet metal drawings, welding drawings, design, specification writing, reverse engineering and additive manufacturing;
  • Experience working with students of various cultural backgrounds;
  • Ability to communicate effectively with students and staff;
  • Related work and professional experience;
  • Recent experience working with African American, Latinx, Native American, and other racially minoritized students in the classroom and an understanding of how historical patterns of exclusions of these groups in higher education shape patterns of participation and outcomes;
  • Willingness to examine and re-mediate one's instructional, relational, and classroom practices to more effectively engage and support racially minoritized students;
  • Experience and skill with addressing issues of equity in the classroom;
  • Potential for contribution to institutional vitality and growth; and
  • Knowledge of the community college and its missions and goals.

Salary and Benefits
Starting rates are $45.49 - $61.78 for lecture and $38.67 - $52.55 for lab Sick leave accrual is based on assignment hours.
Selection Procedure
The selection and hiring process will be explained by the hiring department if the candidate is extended an opportunity to interview.
Additional Information
Additional Information about the Position
Open Date
Close Date
Closing Time
Open Until Filled
No
Quick Link
https://scccd.peopleadmin.com/postings/1887

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