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Drafter Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

The design and/or drafting of fire life safety and other low voltage shop drawings for multi-family, high-rise, military, and commercial buildings. * Work closely with the HCI Design Manager to ...

Drafting experience in Surveying (LiDAR, GPS, Total Stations) (Surveying equipment: Trimble, Carlson). โ€ข Experience using 3D laser scanner (Leica RTC 360) and scan rendering software (Register 360 ...

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Electrical CAD Drafter/Designer

Tustin, CA ยท On-site

$40K - $75K/yr

2+ years of applicable experience In-office position at our Tustin, CA location Salary range: $40k+ (depending upon relevant design/drafting experience) This position requires a demonstrated ...

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Electrical CAD Drafter/Designer

Tustin, CA ยท On-site

$40K - $75K/yr

2+ years of applicable experience In-office position at our Tustin, CA location Salary range: $40k+ (depending upon relevant design/drafting experience) This position requires a demonstrated ...

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Millwork Estimator/Draftsman

Ontario, CA ยท Remote

$70K - $75K/yr

Preferably 5+ years in Drafting commercial millwork projects. Must be capable of reading and understanding Architectural Plans. Position will be two parts. One part will be reading through ...

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Entry Level Draftsman

Anaheim, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Entry level Draftsmen: Duties will be assisting the engineering team by preparing the necessary files for design, redlines, as-built, minor corrections, creating details, submitting to local building ...

EIC Design Manager

CA ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Work with Drafting Leads, Project Managers, Engineers and other internal stakeholders to prioritize Drafting group work. * Develop complex electrical layouts, 3D modeling, cable tray designs, and ...

Mechanical Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$50 - $56/hr

Review drawings from Drafters/Designers and provide feedback. * Support engineers on simple-medium complexity projects; may provide guidance to Drafters/Designers. * Prepare technical reports ...

Showing results 41-60

Drafter information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$28

$45

How much do drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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 job categories do people searching Drafter jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Drafter jobs in Riverside, CA 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,278 per year, or $28 per hour.

Fire Alarm/Low Voltage Drafter

HCI Systems

Ontario, CA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Overview

We are seeking a Fire Alarm/Low-Voltage CAD Operatorย to join our team. In this role you will design and generate fire alarm and low voltage shop drawings, as well as prepare technical submittals, RFI's and closeout documents.

Responsibilities
  • The design and/or drafting of fire life safety and other low voltage shop drawings for multi-family, high-rise, military, and commercial buildings.
  • Work closely with the HCI Design Manager to complete accurate designs and prepare submittals in a timely and professional manner.
  • Manage and update electronic and physical engineering libraries including job folders, equipment manuals, technical data sheets, brochures, and templates.
  • Apply company and National CAD Standards to shop drawings.
  • Resolve design problems through research of multiple alternatives.
  • Coordinate designs with other trades and building owners as needed to create a complete design.
  • Read and interpret blueprints, diagrams, submittals, specifications, schematics, and operational product manuals.
  • Identify out of scope work, design flaws by review of the contract documents, proposal, plans, and specifications provided.
  • Identify and assist with suggested solutions for an efficient design.
  • Assist with all questions and concerns on the design in a timely and professional manner.
  • Effectively communicate project status to management.
  • Perform document control tasks such as printing, downloading, and filing.
  • Perform take-offs (counts) on plans.
  • Complete all appropriate company paperwork as required.
  • ย 
Qualifications
  • Familiar with CBC, CFC, CMC, CEC/NEC, NFPA 72, UFC codes and City Municipal Codes as it pertains to Fire Alarm Systems is a plus.
  • Industry related NICET, RCDD or similar certification is a plus.
  • Engineering degree or aptitude for engineering is a plus.
  • Computer proficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, and Bluebeam.
  • Must have excellent writing and verbal communication skills.
  • Must be self-motivated, have strong organizational skills, a multi-tasker, reliable, self-determined and have excellent follow up skills.
  • Possess the ability to take the initiative to get a project completed.
  • Applicants must meet requirements in relation to background and driving record.
  • Regular, reliable, predictable attendance.

HCI Systems Inc. is a licensed C-7, C-10 and C-16 low voltage systems integration contractor offering a full spectrum of services including sales, engineering, installation, service, and maintenance with over 600 employees in our seven branches. We offer fire life safety, fire suppression, fire sprinkler, access control, video management, intrusion detection, structured cable, nurse call and other related electronic detection solutions to our customers.

Why Join Us?

  • Unlimited Growthย - Our expanding product lines and markets drive consistent double-digit growth, creating ongoing opportunities for advancement.
  • Comprehensive Benefitsย - Enjoy 401(k) with matching, reduced-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus flexible spending accounts. Additional voluntary benefits include life insurance, disability, and accident coverage.
  • Paid Time Offย - Recharge with paid holidays and our PTO plan
  • Weekly Payย - Get paid every Friday.
  • Employee Perksย - From appreciation events and department outings to wellness programs and pet insurance, we invest in our team's well-being.

Equal Employment Opportunity

HCI is an equal opportunity employer. We will not unlawfully discriminate against qualified applicants or employees with respect to any terms and conditions of employment and give equal opportunity considerations to applicants and employees regardless of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions and lactation), gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, disability, protected medical condition as defined by applicable state or local law, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances ("Protected Classifications"). HCIย will reasonably accommodate employees and applicants with disabilities as required by law, if the person is otherwise qualified to perform all the essential functions of the position safely and competently.

Pay RangeUSD $25.00 - USD $30.00 /Hr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME