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Drafter Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Role We're hiring an Architectural/Structural Drafter to produce clean, accurate, permit‑ready construction documents. You'll work directly with our engineers and designers to turn markups ...

This Opportunity WSP is initiating a search for an Experienced Structural Drafter to join our Property & Buildings team in Irvine, CA. Provides technical support, under the supervision of a Lead ...

This Opportunity WSP is initiating a search for an Experienced Structural Drafter to join our Property & Buildings team in Irvine, CA. Provides technical support, under the supervision of a Lead ...

VDC Drafter

Ontario, CA · On-site

$61K - $76K/yr

We're looking for a skilled and motivated VDC Drafter to join our team and help drive project success through thoughtful planning and precise execution. Responsibilities * Develop and coordinate ...

We're looking for a skilled and motivated VDC Drafter to join our team and help drive project success through thoughtful planning and precise execution. Responsibilities * Develop and coordinate ...

VDC Drafter

Ontario, CA · On-site

$61K - $76K/yr

We're looking for a skilled and motivated VDC Drafter to join our team and help drive project success through thoughtful planning and precise execution. * Develop and coordinate detailed Revit models ...

Design/BIM Drafter

Brea, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Design/BIM Drafter Department: Building Information Modeling (BIM) Reports To: Virtual Design and Construction Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The Design/BIM Drafter is responsible ...

Design/BIM Drafter

Brea, CA · On-site

$24 - $26/hr

Design/BIM Drafter Department: Building Information Modeling (BIM) Reports To: Virtual Design and Construction Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The Design/BIM Drafter is responsible ...

Design/BIM Drafter Department: Building Information Modeling (BIM) Reports To: Virtual Design and Construction Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Position Summary The Design/BIM Drafter is responsible ...

Geoscience Drafter

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Tetra Tech, SWW is seeking a part-time Geoscience Drafter with extensive geotechnical background and knowledge to support our geotechnical group in Diamond Bar, CA. Under direct supervision from a ...

Geoscience Drafter

Diamond Bar, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

Tetra Tech, SWW is seeking a part-time Geoscience Drafter with extensive geotechnical background and knowledge to support our geotechnical group in Diamond Bar, CA. Under direct supervision from a ...

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Designer Drafting

San Bernardino, CA · On-site

$2.0K - $3.0K/mo (+ commission)

This Designer Drafting position is ideal for a bilingual professional fluent in Spanish and English, proficient in Revit Auto Desk Software, and experienced with architectural projects in both ...

Urgent

CAD Drafter / Designer

Corona, CA · On-site

$23.25 - $31.25/hr

Job Title: CAD Drafter / Designer Location: Corona, CA Job Type: Full-Time Position Summary We are seeking a detail-oriented CAD Drafter/Designer to join our Engineering team in Corona, CA. In this ...

Showing results 21-40

Drafter information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$28

$45

How much do drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafter in Riverside, CA is $28.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $31.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a drafter do?

A drafter uses computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software to create plans for manufacturing, construction, or engineering projects. Your duties in this career involve working to create computer-aided drawings that include all necessary details and technical specifications. You may use specifications from an architect if you are drafting for buildings, an industrial designer if you are creating plans for products, or an engineer if you are making plans for engineering projects or structures. Your responsibilities also include making changes or correcting existing drawings under the direction of the architect or engineer.

What is a drafter?

Drafters are professionals who use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and plans used by engineers, architects, and construction workers. Their drawings detail the specifications, dimensions, and materials necessary for building everything from machinery to buildings. Drafters often specialize in fields such as architectural, civil, mechanical, or electrical drafting, depending on the industry. They play a crucial role in transforming design concepts into precise, workable diagrams for manufacturing or construction.

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

To thrive as a Drafter, you need strong spatial visualization, technical drawing abilities, and a background in engineering or architectural principles, often backed by an associate's degree or drafting certification. Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SolidWorks is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help drafters collaborate with engineers and architects and ensure design accuracy. These skills are crucial for producing precise technical drawings that guide construction and manufacturing projects successfully.

How does a drafter typically collaborate with engineers and architects during a project's lifecycle?

Drafters work closely with engineers and architects by translating their concepts and sketches into detailed technical drawings and plans. Throughout a project's lifecycle, drafters often participate in meetings to clarify design intent, update drawings based on feedback, and ensure all specifications are accurately represented. Effective communication and attention to detail are essential, as drafters must coordinate revisions and address any design or structural issues that arise. This collaborative workflow helps ensure that the final construction documents align with both regulatory standards and client expectations.

What is the difference between Drafter vs CAD Technician?

AspectDrafterCAD Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical training or certification in CAD software
Work EnvironmentArchitectural, engineering, manufacturing settingsDesign firms, engineering companies, manufacturing industries
Job FocusCreating technical drawings based on specificationsDeveloping, editing, and managing CAD models and drawings
Tools UsedManual drafting tools, CAD softwarePrimarily CAD software like AutoCAD, Revit

Both Drafters and CAD Technicians create technical drawings, but Drafters focus more on manual and traditional drafting methods, while CAD Technicians specialize in digital CAD modeling and editing. The roles often overlap, but CAD Technicians tend to have more advanced skills in CAD software, making them more involved in digital design processes.

Do drafters make a lot of money?

Drafters typically earn a moderate income that varies by industry, experience, and location. According to industry data, the median annual salary for drafters is around $55,000, with some specialized roles or those with advanced skills earning higher wages. Certification in CAD software can also influence earning potential.

Is a CAD drafter a good job?

A CAD drafter is a skilled professional who creates technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design software, often working in engineering, architecture, or manufacturing fields. The job offers steady employment opportunities, requires attention to detail, and benefits from proficiency in CAD tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. It can be a good career choice for those interested in technical design and precision work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drafter jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Drafter jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Drafter jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Drafter jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Drafter jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Drafter job openings:

Infographic showing various Drafter job openings in Riverside, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,278 per year, or $28 per hour.

Architectural/Structural Drafter

Irvine, CA • On-site

Archinect
Architectural Services • 1 - 10 employees

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

About Us

New Beginnings Engineering is a structural engineering and architectural design firm based in Irvine, CA, licensed across 30+ states. We deliver complete A&E solutions for residential, custom home, commercial, multi-family, and industrial projects, including ADUs, foundation design, seismic retrofitting, load-bearing wall removal, and SB326/SB721 balcony inspections. We’re a tight-knit team that values precision, ownership, and doing right by our clients.

The Role

We’re hiring an Architectural/Structural Drafter to produce clean, accurate, permit‑ready construction documents. You’ll work directly with our engineers and designers to turn markups, sketches, and calculations into coordinated drawing sets that move projects through plan check and into construction. This is a hybrid role based out of our Irvine office.

What You’ll Do
  • Prepare architectural and structural drawings, including plans, sections, details, and schedules, from engineer markups and design intent
  • Develop permit‑ready construction document sets for residential, custom home, commercial, and multi-family projects
  • Coordinate drawings across disciplines to ensure accuracy and constructability
  • Incorporate redlines, revisions, and plan‑check corrections promptly
  • Maintain drawing standards, layering, title blocks, and file organization
  • Communicate with engineers and project managers to keep sets on schedule
What We’re Looking For
  • 5+ years of drafting experience in architecture, structural engineering, or construction, though strong entry‑level candidates with relevant training will be considered
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit
  • Working knowledge of construction documentation and how a set comes together for permitting
  • Familiarity with California building codes, including CBC/IBC, and the plan‑check process a plus
  • Strong attention to detail, organization, and follow‑through
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
  • Associate degree, technical certificate, or equivalent experience in drafting/CAD, architecture, or engineering technology
Nice to Have
  • Experience with residential and light‑commercial structural drawings
  • Knowledge of wood, steel, concrete, and cold‑formed steel (CFS) framing
  • Exposure to ADUs, seismic retrofits, or tenant improvement projects
What We Offer
  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Hybrid schedule with a collaborative Irvine office
  • Direct mentorship from licensed PEs and exposure to a wide range of project types
  • Room to grow as the firm grows
How to Apply

Submit your resume and a portfolio or sample drawing set, in PDF format, demonstrating your CAD/Revit work. Applications without work samples are welcome, but samples are strongly preferred.

New Beginnings Engineering is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

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