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Entry Level Autocad Drafting Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SSI

Electrical Designer

Brea, CA · On-site

... * Entry-level position (up to two years of professional drafting experience). * Candidate must be knowledgeable in AutoCad Electrical * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. * Candidate must ...

SSI

Electrical Designer

Brea, CA · On-site

... * Entry-level position (up to two years of professional drafting experience). * Candidate must be knowledgeable in AutoCad Electrical * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. * Candidate must ...

Cordoba Corporation

Associate Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

The Associate Engineer provides entry-level engineering and technical support for the ... Minimum of one (1) year of relevant engineering, drafting, design, or construction support ...

Cordoba Corporation

Associate Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

The Associate Engineer provides entry-level engineering and technical support for the ... Minimum of one (1) year of relevant engineering, drafting, design, or construction support ...

Fluor

Associate Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

The Associate Engineer provides entry-level engineering and technical support for the California ... as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or MicroStation Working knowledge of engineering drawings, drafting ...

Cupertino Electric, Inc.

VDC Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28 - $46/hr

This is the entry level of technical work requiring a AutoCAD and Revit certification or the ... Perform AutoCAD/Revit support - drafting, plotting, plotter maintenance, record documents

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Entry Level Autocad Drafting information

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How much do entry level autocad drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level autocad drafting in California is $22.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level AutoCAD drafter?

An entry level AutoCAD drafting job involves using AutoCAD software to create technical drawings and plans for various engineering, architectural, or manufacturing projects. Individuals in this role typically assist senior drafters or engineers by preparing detailed layouts, diagrams, and schematics based on rough sketches or specifications. Responsibilities may include updating existing drawings, making corrections, and ensuring drawings comply with industry standards. These roles are ideal for recent graduates or those new to the field looking to gain practical experience and develop their drafting skills.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level AutoCAD drafter?

To thrive as an Entry Level AutoCAD Drafter, you need a basic understanding of drafting principles, strong spatial visualization, and proficiency in AutoCAD software, often supported by a certificate or associate degree in drafting or a related field. Familiarity with industry-specific standards, CAD file management systems, and sometimes other design tools like Revit or SolidWorks is important. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication help you interpret project requirements and collaborate with engineers and architects. These skills ensure accurate technical drawings, efficient workflow, and successful integration of design intent into real-world projects.

What are common challenges faced by entry level AutoCAD drafters and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level AutoCAD drafters often face challenges such as interpreting complex design specifications, adapting to varying drafting standards across projects, and managing revisions efficiently. To overcome these, it's helpful to communicate regularly with senior drafters and engineers, seek feedback on your drawings, and become familiar with company-specific CAD templates and layer conventions. Staying organized and proactive in learning new features of AutoCAD will also make it easier to handle revisions and meet project deadlines. Collaboration and continuous learning are key to building confidence and competence in this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Autocad Drafting vs Junior Civil Drafter?

AspectEntry Level Autocad DraftingJunior Civil Drafter
CredentialsBasic AutoCAD training, high school diploma or equivalentAutoCAD skills, some civil engineering coursework or diploma
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, architectural offices, construction companiesCivil engineering firms, construction sites, consulting agencies
Industry UsageCommonly used in architecture, interior design, and constructionPrimarily used in civil engineering, infrastructure projects
Job FocusCreating technical drawings, drafting plans under supervisionAssisting in civil design, drafting site plans, and infrastructure layouts

While both roles involve AutoCAD skills and drafting, Entry Level Autocad Drafters focus on general design drawings across various industries, whereas Junior Civil Drafters specialize in civil engineering projects like roads and utilities. The latter often requires some civil coursework and works specifically within civil engineering teams.

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

The most popular types of Autocad Drafting jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs in California?

For Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Autocad Drafting job openings:

Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Autocad Drafting job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,140 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Associate Transportation Engineer

Sacramento, CA • On-site

Jaquith Consulting Group Inc
See more jobs at Jaquith Consulting Group Incexternal

$74K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with engineering design, drafting, and construction support activities for transportation infrastructure projects.

  • Prepare, revise, and maintain engineering drawings, sketches, exhibits, and construction support documents using CAD software.

  • Support project delivery by coordinating with team members, reviewing drawings for accuracy, and maintaining project documentation.

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Profit sharing

Location: Sacramento (On-site), 25% travel
Estimated Salary Range: $74,000-$120,000 (based on experience)
Jaquith Consulting Group is seeking an Associate Engineer to provide entry-level engineering and technical support for the California High-Speed Rail Authority.
Position Summary
Under the direction of Senior Engineering staff, the incumbent assists with engineering design support, drafting, construction documentation, and project coordination activities. The Associate Engineer utilizes Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to prepare and modify engineering drawings, supports engineering analyses, and assists with maintaining project documentation while gaining practical experience in transportation infrastructure delivery.
Position Responsibilities
  • Prepare, revise, and maintain engineering drawings, sketches, exhibits, and construction support documents using AutoCAD, Civil 3D, MicroStation, or other approved CAD software.
  • Assist engineers with engineering design, drafting, and construction support activities for transportation infrastructure projects.
  • Review engineering drawings, plans, specifications, and supporting documents for completeness and accuracy under the guidance of senior staff.
  • Incorporate redline markups and revisions into engineering drawings and maintain drawing files in accordance with established project standards.
  • Support field engineering staff by preparing construction sketches, record drawings, and as-built documentation.
  • Assist with engineering calculations, quantity takeoffs, technical reports, and preparation of project exhibits and presentations.
  • Coordinate with engineers, designers, surveyors, construction managers, contractors, and other project team members to support project delivery.
  • Maintain organized electronic engineering files and assist with document management and version control processes.
  • Participate in design reviews, project meetings, and construction coordination activities.
  • Perform other engineering and technical duties as assigned in support of project delivery.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Engineering Technology, Construction Management, or a closely related engineering field and a minimum of one (1) year of relevant engineering, drafting, design, or construction support experience; or, in lieu of a degree, five (5) years of relevant engineering, drafting, design, or construction support experience.
  • Demonstrated proficiency using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or MicroStation.
  • Working knowledge of engineering drawings, drafting principles, and construction documentation.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Preferred Qualifications, Certifications, and Licensures
  • Experience supporting transportation, rail, highway, bridge, or other infrastructure projects.
  • Experience using Autodesk AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Bentley MicroStation, or OpenRoads.
  • Familiarity with Bluebeam Revu, ProjectWise, or electronic document management systems.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or progress toward obtaining EIT.
  • Familiarity with Caltrans standards and transportation engineering practices.
  • Internship or academic project experience involving engineering design, CAD drafting, or construction support.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of engineering drafting principles, CAD standards, and construction documentation practices.
  • Skill in preparing, revising, and maintaining engineering drawings using AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or MicroStation.
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering plans, specifications, and redline markups accurately.
  • Skill in performing basic engineering calculations and quantity takeoffs with strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to organize and maintain electronic engineering files with reliable document management and version control.
  • Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, with engineers, designers, and project team members.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines while working under the direction of senior staff.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Benefits
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan, profit sharing
  • Paid holidays
Jaquith Consulting Group is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.