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Drafting Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Legora

Legal Engineer Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

... drafting. • Capture insights from users and translate them into clear, actionable feedback for ... years (Trainee/paralegal) experience. • Not necessarily a coder, but eager to engage with AI ...

Learnkwik.com

Agentic AI Training

Long Beach, CA · On-site

We advise our trainees not to wait till the next class to seek answers to any technical issue. • ... Help with drafting and obtaining OPT employment letters that meet USCIS requirements. • We ...

Learnkwik.com

Agentic AI Training

Long Beach, CA

We advise our trainees not to wait till the next class to seek answers to any technical issue ... Help with drafting and obtaining OPT employment letters that meet USCIS requirements. We provide ...

Resourcex,Inc.

Agentic AI Training

Oakland, CA · On-site

We advise our trainees not to wait till the next class to seek answers to any technical issue. • ... Help with drafting and obtaining OPT employment letters that meet USCIS requirements. • We ...

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee

Lebec, CA

$28.50 - $30.35/hr

Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain proper output of the generating units, proper water flows, pressures, temperatures draft conditions and fuel consumption.

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee

Lebec, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $30.35/hr

Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain proper output of the generating units, proper water flows, pressures, temperatures draft conditions and fuel consumption.

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee (IC&E)

Coyote, CA · On-site

$32.77 - $34.90/hr

Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain proper output of the generating units, proper water flows, pressures, temperatures draft conditions and fuel consumption.

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee (IC&E)

Pittsburg, CA

$32.77 - $34.90/hr

Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain proper output of the generating units, proper water flows, pressures, temperatures draft conditions and fuel consumption.

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee (IC&E)

Coyote, CA · On-site

$32.77 - $34.90/hr

Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain proper output of the generating units, proper water flows, pressures, temperatures draft conditions and fuel consumption.

Calpine

Power Operations Trainee (IC&E)

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$32.77 - $34.90/hr

Performs the necessary operating, regulating and adjusting duties to maintain proper output of the generating units, proper water flows, pressures, temperatures draft conditions and fuel consumption.

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All JobsDrafting JobsDrafting Trainee JobsDrafting Trainee Jobs in California

Drafting Trainee information

What is the difference between Drafting Trainee vs Draftsman?

AspectDrafting TraineeDraftsman
QualificationsBasic diploma or certificate in drafting or CAD softwareDiploma or degree in drafting, architecture, or engineering
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised tasks, learning phaseProfessional work environment, producing technical drawings
ExperienceEntry-level, on-the-job trainingPractical experience in drafting projects
Industry UsageUsed during training programs, internshipsFull-time role in engineering, architecture, construction

In summary, a Drafting Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and developing drafting skills under supervision, while a Draftsman is a more experienced professional responsible for creating detailed technical drawings independently.

What is a drafting trainee?

Drafting trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to create technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering. They work under the supervision of experienced drafters or engineers, gaining hands-on experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software and understanding industry standards. Their responsibilities include preparing detailed drawings, making revisions, and assisting with project documentation. This role provides foundational skills that can lead to more advanced drafting or design positions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a drafting trainee?

To thrive as a Drafting Trainee, you need a solid understanding of technical drawing principles, spatial visualization, and basic mathematics, often supported by a relevant diploma or coursework in drafting or engineering. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks is typically necessary, along with knowledge of industry standards. Attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate and efficient production of technical drawings, support collaboration with engineering teams, and facilitate growth within the field.

What challenges do drafting trainees face when adjusting to industry-standard software and workflows?

Drafting Trainees often encounter challenges adapting to specialized CAD software and understanding complex project standards. It can take time to become efficient with tools like AutoCAD or Revit while also learning to interpret architectural or engineering drawings accurately. Additionally, trainees must quickly become comfortable working within established workflows and collaborating with senior drafters, engineers, or architects to ensure their work meets project requirements. Overcoming these challenges usually involves a mix of on-the-job training, mentorship, and proactive learning.

How do you train to be a drafting trainee?

Training to be a drafting trainee typically involves completing a relevant diploma or degree in drafting, engineering, or architecture, followed by on-the-job training where trainees learn to use CAD software and drafting standards under supervision. Developing technical skills, attention to detail, and understanding of construction or manufacturing processes are essential components of the training process.

How to start a career in drafting trainee?

To start a career as a drafting trainee, obtain a relevant diploma or degree in drafting, engineering, or architecture, and develop proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD or Revit. Gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships and building a strong understanding of technical drawings and industry standards are essential steps.

What are the most commonly searched types of Drafting jobs in California?

The most popular types of Drafting jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Drafting Trainee jobs?

Cities in California with the most Drafting Trainee job openings:

Drafting Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drafting Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Assistant Planner Trainee/Assistant Planner/Associate Planner

Stanislaus County, CA

Modesto, CA • On-site

$86K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Salary : $86,756.80 - $105,456.00 Annually
Location : Planning and Community Development - 1010 10th St, Ste 3400, Modesto CA 95354, CA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 5219-26
Department: Planning & Community Development
Division: Planning
Opening Date: 07/30/2026
Closing Date: 8/18/2026 5:00 PM Pacific
About the Opportunity
GENERAL INFORMATION
Assistant Planner Trainee - $29.70 hourly
Assistant Planner - $34.94 - $42.47 hourly
Associate Planner - $41.71 - $50.70 hourly
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The Planning and Community Development Department is seeking a candidate with strong organizational, quality control, time management, and communication skills wanting to work in a team-oriented environment focused on customer service and service delivery. The ideal candidate must have the ability to work collaboratively with internal and external customers and have a can-do attitude.
Gain insights into Stanislaus County's application process. Review our and
TENTATIVE RECRUITMENT SCHEDULE
Application Deadline: 08/18/2026
Written Examination: 08/31/2026
Oral Examination: 09/14/206
To learn more about the Planning and Community Development Department, https://www.stancounty.com/planning/
THE POSITION
The Department is seeking a qualified candidate for the Trainee, Assistant, or Associate Planner position. As a member of the Planning and Community Development Department, you'll be part of an organization that fosters collaboration, teamwork, and a strong sense of community. Excellent writing and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a multi- disciplinary environment are essential.
The position will be assigned current planning tasks including, but not limited to, processing land use entitlements, subdivisions, and preparing initial studies in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act; however, other assignments may be made as department needs shift.
As a block-budgeted position, a promotion from the Assistant to Associate Planner may be approved by the Department Head once an incumbent demonstrates the leadership and ability to work effectively and independently with minimal supervision and has attained the minimum years of experience. As required by department workload and funding, the incumbent may be assigned to various tasks within the Department.
ABOUT THE TRAINEE DESIGNATION
  • Trainees are part of the unclassified service of the County;
  • All trainees will be appointed to the first step of the salary range for the appropriate position, and will be compensated 15% below the range established for the Assistant Planner classification;
  • Trainee appointments are not to last longer than one year; however, appointments are extendible to a maximum of two years in cases where minimum qualifications are involved; and
  • Upon completion of the training period and the acquisition of minimum qualifications, the individual may be upgraded to a probationary appointment at step 1 of the Assistant Planner salary range. (An approximate 15% increase in salary)

Questions? We're Here to Help!
If you are interested in learning more about this opportunity, the recruitment process, or need assistance with your application, please contact the Recruitment Analyst at 209 525 6330.
Typical Tasks
ASSISTANT PLANNER
  • Assist the public at the front counter, on the phone, and in writing, by answering questions and providing detailed information regarding zoning, development standards and development proposals;
  • Review entitlement and building permit applications for completeness and accuracy and compliance with applicable ordinances and guidelines;
  • Prepare initial studies and environmental determinations in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA);
  • Review development proposals, subdivision proposals, and building plans for consistency and conformance with appropriate regulations;
  • Research, collect, analyze, summarize and present data related to entitlement applications for land use studies and related environmental studies;
  • Assist in the compilation, analysis, and presentation of data for elements of the General Plan or other County projects such as capital improvement and conservation programs;
  • Assist in the drafting and administration of ordinances relating to the County's planning program;
  • Confer with and advise architects, builders, attorneys, contractors, engineers, outside agencies and the general public regarding County development policies and standards;
  • Coordinate project review with other County departments and outside agencies;
  • Prepare all project related written correspondence in accordance with applicable laws, policies and customer service standards;
  • Prepare graphics, charts, and other illustrative materials;
  • Prepare Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors Agenda reports containing findings and recommendations;
  • Present and explain projects and problems at public meetings and conferences;
  • Assist with grant management, including competitive grant funding, or state or federal entitlement grant funded programs (such as Community Development Block Grant and HOME Investment Partnership Programs) administered by the Department; and
  • Perform other duties of a similar nature as assigned.

ASSOCIATE PLANNER (In addition to the tasks listed above)
  • Independently and with minimal assistance and supervision, conduct all tasks listed above for both routine and complex projects;
  • Review, process, and implement all levels of environment assessments in accordance with CEQA; and
  • Plans, assigns, trains, and supervises work of subordinate personnel.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education/Experience)
KNOWLEDGE
ASSISTANT AND ASSOCIATE PLANNER
  • Principle and practices of land use planning and zoning;
  • Principle and practices applying to governmental planning;
  • Local, State and Federal laws relating to planning procedures;
  • State and Federal environmental laws;
  • Current trends in local, State and Federal Planning;
  • Trend and statistics affecting public planning; and
  • Engineering and building drawing and topographic mapping.

SKILLS/ABILITIES
ASSISTANT PLANNER
  • Review, collect, analyze, and interpret data pertaining to planning, demographic and zoning situations;
  • Prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive written and oral reports;
  • Provide project reports at public meetings such as the Planning Commission;
  • Work on and coordinate several complex planning projects simultaneously, often as part of a team;
  • Effectively communicate and maintain harmonious relations with subordinates, governmental officials, fellow employees and the public;
  • Complete work assignments in a timely and accurate manner;
  • Read site and plot plans and blueprints;
  • Understand governmental structures and current policy issues in Stanislaus County;
  • Review current legislation and identify the impact on current programs; and
  • Use PC's, including word processing, spreadsheet and GIS applications.

ASSOCIATE PLANNER (In addition to abilities defined above)
  • Plan, assign, and supervise the work of others.

We recognize your time is valuable, please only apply if you meet the following required qualifications.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
ASSISTANT PLANNER TRAINEE
  • This position can be made at the Trainee level. For this recruitment, appointees will be selected at the Trainee level consistent with the County's 'Trainee' provision. This means their appointment will be 15% below the salary assigned to the Assistant Planner.
  • The person applying for the 'Trainee position' is not required to meet the minimum qualifications but must be within one (1) year of acquiring the education and experience required for the Assistant Planner.
  • Appointments under the 'Trainee' provision will be up to 12 months. For successful performance and meeting the minimum qualifications, the Trainee will be considered for regular appointment.

ASSISTANT PLANNER
  • Related education and/or experience, which would lead to the acquisition of the required knowledge and abilities listed above. This would typically be acquired by possession of a Bachelor's Degree in City or Regional Planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Public Administration, Economics, Geography or a similar degree or a combination of four (4) years of related education and/or planning experience; OR
  • A Bachelor's Degree in an unrelated field may be substituted for one (1) year experience within the above pattern orfour (4) years of non-professional planning experience with a local government land-use planning agency and completion or commitment to complete an approved land-use certification program may be substituted for a Bachelor's Degree; AND
  • One (1) year of progressively responsible related professional experience in governmental or similar land use planning work.

NOTE: A Master's Degree in City or Regional Planning may be substituted for six (6) months of the required experience.
ASSOCIATE PLANNER
  • Related education and/or experience, which would lead to the acquisition of the required knowledge and abilities listed above. This would typically be acquired by possession of a Bachelor's Degree in City or Regional Planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Public Administration, Economics, Geography or a similar degree or a combination of four years (4) of related education and/or planning experience. A Bachelor's Degree in an unrelated field may be substituted for one (1) year of experience within the above pattern; AND
  • Two (2) years of progressively responsible professional experience in governmental or similar land use planning work.

NOTE: A Master's Degree in City or Regional Planning may be substituted for six (6) months of the required experience.
Proof of education must be provided at the time of application. Applicants who are unable to submit proof must call 209-525-6330 to make other arrangements before 5pm on the final filing date. Failure to submit proof or make other arrangements before final filing deadline will result in disqualification.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS
In addition to the minimum qualifications, applicant screening will focus on the following desirable qualifications. Please list any of these qualifications you may have within the "Duties" section of the online application.
  • One (1) year experience in applying the principles and practices of the California Land Use Planning and Zoning Laws, Subdivision Map Act, and California Environmental Quality Act in the review of land use entitlement applications; OR
  • One (1) year experience in processing environmental assessments in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) or National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA); OR
  • One (1) year experience in working with a Geographic Information System (GIS) to review, analyze and develop geographical data; OR
  • One (1) year of progressively responsible experience working with grant management, including competitive grants or entitlement grants such as Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Programs or similar federal and state grants; OR
  • Possession of a Bachelor's Degree in City or Regional Planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Public Administration, Economics, or Geography.

Application and Selection Procedures
APPLICATION PROCEDURES/FINAL FILING DATE
Applications cannot be submitted later than 5:00 p.m. on the final filing date. Make your online application as complete as possible so a full and realistic appraisal may be made of your qualifications.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application.
Attaching your resume and cover letter are an optional feature for those who wish to do so in addition to completing the required application. Information on your resume and cover letter will not substitute for the education, work experience and required fields on the County application. The online County application is the primary tool used to evaluate your job qualifications.
EXAMINATION PROCESS
Most County recruitments consists of the steps detailed below and are governed by Merit Principles. The examination process ensures that all applicants are given the same opportunity to gain employment within Stanislaus County.
  • Application Review and Screening. Applications are carefully screened based on information provided. Those who submit incomplete applications that lack relevant qualifications or do not submit all required documents will not be invited to move on.
  • Written Examination. Applicants will be invited to participate in a written exam that tests knowledge for the position.
  • Oral Examination. Applicants are invited to a panel interview in which they will be evaluated by County subject matter experts.
  • Eligible Lists. Candidates who pass the examination will be placed on an eligible list for that classification. Eligible lists are effective for six months, but may be extended up to eighteen months.

GENERAL INFORMATION
CLASSI

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