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Entry Level Autocad Drafting Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Autocad Drafting information

See Utah salary details

$14

$20

$26

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

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level autocad drafting in Utah is $20.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters, including those in entry-level AutoCAD drafting roles, are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI in the near future. While AI tools can assist with automating repetitive tasks and improving efficiency, skilled human oversight is still essential for complex design decisions, accuracy, and creativity in drafting work.

What are some 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.

How to become a CAD drafter with no experience?

To become an entry-level AutoCAD drafter with no experience, start by learning AutoCAD through online tutorials or community college courses. Building a portfolio of basic drafting projects and obtaining relevant certifications can improve your chances, and gaining familiarity with industry standards and software tools is essential for entry into the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level AutoCAD Drafter, and why are they important?

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.

Is CAD drafting in demand?

CAD drafting, including entry-level AutoCAD drafting, remains in demand across industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. Employers seek skilled drafters proficient in AutoCAD and related software to produce technical drawings and plans, with job opportunities often available for those with foundational knowledge and certifications.

What is an entry level AutoCAD drafting job?

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.

Is CAD a lot of math?

Entry level AutoCAD drafting primarily involves understanding geometry, measurements, and spatial relationships, which require basic math skills. Advanced math is generally not necessary, but accuracy in calculations and measurements is important for creating precise drawings. Familiarity with basic algebra and geometry helps in efficiently using CAD tools.
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Autocad Drafting job openings in Utah as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,562 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Lecturer Design, Drafting, and Manufacturing USU Eastern

Utah State University

Price, UT

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Utah State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Technology, Design, and Technical Education Department of Utah State University seeks candidates for a full-time, academic-year (9-month), non-tenure-track term lecturer position in the Engineering, Drafting, and Design Technology (EDDT) certificate program. This position will be located in the School of Professional and Technical Education (SPTE) at Utah State University (USU) in the new academic year. The appointment is 95% teaching and 5% service.

It is anticipated that the individual selected for this faculty position will start in August of 2026. The successful candidate for this position will teach a variety of technical drafting, Design, and 3D modeling courses. As part of USU’s land-grant mission to make academic programs accessible throughout the state, this position will be based at the USU Eastern campus in Price, Utah.


  • The successful applicant will teach and support courses in the USU EDDT program with an emphasis on the Technical Certificate (TC). Instruction will focus on foundational drafting and technical design skills that prepare students for entry-level drafting careers.
  • Course content includes technical sketching, orthographic and pictorial projection, scaling, isometric drawings, section views, and the creation of clear, standards-based technical drawings. Instruction may also introduce basic 2D and 3D modeling concepts, emphasizing spatial reasoning, design intent, and creative problem-solving.
  • The ideal candidate is comfortable teaching drafting fundamentals, understands technical drawing standards, and is familiar with common 2D/3D modeling software. Expertise in a specific software platform is not required.
  • Courses may be delivered face-to-face, via broadcast to statewide campuses, or online. The position includes collaborating with program faculty, teaching diverse student populations (including concurrent and non-traditional students), and participating in departmental and university service.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Certificate of Completion (minimum 900-hour/30-credit, or equivalent) in drafting, modeling, or design, from a postsecondary institution.
  • At least three years of industry or related experience where work is performed to recognized industry standards and is primarily focused on drafting and/or design.
  • Up to one additional year of postsecondary education may be substituted for one year of qualifying work experience.
  • SolidWorks CAD Design Associate (CSWA) credential, or the ability to obtain the certification within one year of hire date.
  • Autodesk AutoCAD Certified User (ACU), or the ability to obtain the certification within one year of hire date.
  • Practical experience and/or certification in one of the following programs: AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Revit, Inventor, Blender.
  • In-depth understanding of drafting standards and conventions standardized by ASME Y14.2 and ASME Y14.5.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • AS or AAS degree in drafting, design, or a very closely related field from an accredited school.
  • Experience teaching drafting and design at a post-secondary level.
  • CSWA.
  • Experience with additive manufacturing.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Teaching-focused candidate who understands and is committed to the mission of USU Eastern.
  • Willingness to work to improve instructional effectiveness and personal technical skills.
  • Cultural sensitivity and an ability to build rapport with co-workers.
  • A commitment to student success.
  • Demonstrated effectiveness in written and oral communication, interpersonal, organizational, and team-building skills.
  • An ability to set specific departmental goals and develop related curriculum.
  • Ability to work as a member of an instructional team; individual needs are subordinate to team goals.
  • The ability to create 2D mechanical prints and 3D models from provided or existing objects.
  • The ability to create 2D mechanical prints from 3D models, and vice versa.

Along with the online application, please attach:

  • A current Resume/CV that includes education degrees and dates of completion, employment dates and a description of responsibilities, professional certifications and including dates, and any awards, professional memberships, and drafting certifications you possess. This will be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
  • A Cover Letter that effectively elaborates on your best qualifications for this position to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Documents 1-10”
  • Unofficial electronic copy of transcripts to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Documents 1-10”
  • A Teaching Philosophy statement (1-2 pages) that clearly and effectively communicates your personal teaching philosophy as it applies to the drafting industryto be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Documents 1-10”
  • A list of three (3) professional references with contact information to be typed in at the beginning of your applicatation. 

Other materials which would be helpful, but are not required may include:

  • Examples of prints and models created by the candidate
  • Student evaluations or other evidence of quality teaching, if you have previous teaching experience
  • Applicants may choose to also provide other course materials such as sample syllabi, course notes, handouts or other teaching materials which show evidence of effective teaching.

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**


Commensurate with experience, plus excellent benefits

Employees typically work indoors and are protected from weather and/or contaminants, but not, necessarily, occasional temperature changes.  


Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

USU enrolls over 29,800 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State’s 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU educates students from all 50 states and more than 80 countries. For over 100 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns, serving every county in the state.

Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies’ long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by recent Mountain West regular-season and tournament championships in women’s volleyball, three consecutive Mountain West tournament titles in women’s soccer conference championships, and a first-ever conference championship for gymnastics, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement.

Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported and where diversity of thought and culture are cultivated. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU. 

The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and a reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu. 

*updated 12/2025


In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

Utah State University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination including harassment in employment including in hiring, promotion, transfer, or termination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy or any other federal, state, or local law.

Utah State University does not discriminate in its housing offerings and will treat all persons fairly and equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, familial status, disability, national origin, source of income, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Additionally, the University endeavors to provide reasonable accommodations when necessary and to ensure equal access to qualified persons with disabilities.

In all circumstances, Utah State University follows state and federal laws related to sex-segregated spaces.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies:

Matthew Pinner

Executive Director

Civil Rights & Title IX Office

matthew.pinner@usu.edu

435-797-1266 | Old Main Rm. 401D

1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322

Cody Carmichael

Title IX Coordinator

cody.carmichael@usu.edu

435-797-1266 | Old Main Rm. 402D

1475 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit crtix.usu.edu or contact:

U.S. Department of Education

Denver Regional Office

303-844-5695| OCR.Denver@ed.gov

U.S. Department of Education

Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights

800-421-3481 |  OCR@ed.gov

*updated 10/2025


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