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Drafting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Drafting 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 ...

Drafting 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 ...

SW Drafting Technician

Dixon, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $35/hr

SW Drafting Technician Location: Dixon, CA Job type: Full-time/On-site Pay Range: $28 to $35 per hour Hiring Company: Team 360 Staffing About the Role Team 360 Staffing is seeking a detail-oriented ...

Fully trained in the use of AutoCad, and experience in 3D Drafting with software such as Solidworks or Autocad Inventor. Minimum five years' experience working in a network environment. Proficiency ...

SW Drafting Technician

Dixon, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Fully trained in the use of AutoCad, and experience in 3D Drafting with software such as Solidworks or Autocad Inventor. Minimum five years' experience working in a network environment. Proficiency ...

AUTOCAD 2014 Drafting

Sacramento, CA

$24 - $32.25/hr

AUTOCAD 2014 Drafting Location: Sacramento CA Mandatory Requirements Minimum 5 or more years of experience in utilizing AutoCad 2014 and previous versions to create or edit engineering drawings ...

Draftsman

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Diploma in drafting, engineering, or related fields * Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in site planning or a related field * Knowledge of zoning laws, land use regulations, and environmental ...

Draftsman

Fresno, CA ยท On-site

Diploma in drafting, engineering, or related fields * Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in site planning or a related field * Knowledge of zoning laws, land use regulations, and environmental ...

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Drafting information

See California salary details

$14

$24

$36

How much do drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for drafting in California is $24.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $25.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Drafting vs CAD Technician?

AspectDraftingCAD Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical trainingHigh school diploma; technical certification or associate degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentArchitectural, engineering, or manufacturing offices; on-siteDesign studios, engineering firms, manufacturing companies; computer-based work
Industry UsageUsed across architecture, engineering, manufacturingPrimarily in engineering, architecture, and product design
Work FocusCreating technical drawings manually or with basic softwareDeveloping detailed 3D models and drawings using CAD software

While both Drafting and CAD Technicians create technical drawings, Drafting typically involves manual or basic digital drawing skills, whereas CAD Technicians focus on advanced 3D modeling and detailed digital designs using specialized software. The roles often overlap, but CAD Technicians usually require more technical training in CAD tools.

What jobs make $3,000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can earn $3,000 a day include specialized roles such as experienced surgeons, corporate lawyers, investment bankers, and certain high-level consultants. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve high-pressure environments or significant responsibilities.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters perform detailed technical drawings and designs that require human judgment and expertise. While AI and automation tools can assist with repetitive tasks and improve efficiency, they are unlikely to fully replace skilled CAD drafters in the near future, as complex design work still relies on human creativity and understanding of project requirements.

Do drafters make a lot of money?

Drafting is a skilled profession that typically offers a moderate to good salary, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level drafters usually earn less, while experienced professionals with certifications and advanced skills can earn higher wages, especially in specialized fields like civil or mechanical drafting.

Is drafting still a good career?

Drafting remains a viable career as it is essential in fields like architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. Skilled drafters who are proficient with CAD software and have relevant certifications are in demand for designing and creating technical drawings. The profession offers stable employment opportunities, especially with experience and specialization.

What are some typical challenges drafters face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Drafters often collaborate with architects, engineers, and construction professionals, which can present challenges such as coordinating design changes, managing conflicting feedback, and adhering to tight deadlines. Effective communication and attention to detail are crucial, as errors can lead to costly revisions. Staying up-to-date with the latest CAD software and industry standards also helps drafters integrate seamlessly with diverse teams and deliver accurate technical drawings.

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 technical drawing skills, attention to detail, and a background in drafting or engineering technology, often supported by an associate degree or certification. Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SolidWorks is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate with architects and engineers help drafters excel. These skills ensure accurate technical plans, effective teamwork, and the successful translation of concepts into precise construction or manufacturing documents.

What is drafting?

Drafting is the process of creating detailed technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, architecture, and engineering. Drafters use specialized software or manual techniques to produce precise representations of structures, machinery, or systems. These drawings serve as blueprints for builders, engineers, and manufacturers, ensuring projects are constructed accurately and safely. Drafting is essential for communicating complex design ideas and specifications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Drafting jobs in California? The most popular types of Drafting jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Drafting jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Drafting jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Drafting jobs? Cities in California with the most Drafting job openings:
Infographic showing various Drafting job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,241 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

  • Support Project Managers and Engineers on a daily basis with design, drafting and mapping deliverables within the expectations of work quality, schedule, and budget.
  • Work with Project Managers and Engineers to estimate quantities of design drawings for complete design packages.
  • Coordinate daily activity of assigned Drafting staff based on project schedule to ensure timely completion. 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 other design deliverables that satisfy all technical requirements of a project from the preliminary design stage through the detail design stage.
  • Maintain project controls and records as required by Company and/or client policy.
  • Produce or assist less experienced designers in producing finished Electrical Design deliverables using CAD software.
  • Ensure industry design recommended practices and safety considerations are included in all designs.
  • Complete the deliverables for the detail design phase of a project.
  • Recommend modifications and changes for design improvement and simplification.
  • Check other designer's work for accuracy, completeness and compliance with company and project specifications and standards.
  • Evaluate and implement CAD software-based efficiency tools.
  • Work with team members to identify mistakes and eliminate rework.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
  • Associates Degree in Drafting or Design Technology or related major, Bachelor's Degree preferred.
  • This position requires a minimum of 10 years of design experience. Experience in the oil & gas industry is desirable.
  • Knowledge of CAD software - AutoCAD, Revit, Microstation, AutoCAD Electric or others.
  • Experience working both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
  • At least 2 years of supervisory experience in a drafting environment.

Salary Range: $100K- $130K
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.