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Entry Level Autocad Electrical Jobs in Rochester, NY

Entry Level Autocad Electrical information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$40K

$85.2K

$140.6K

How much do entry level autocad electrical jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level autocad electrical in Rochester, NY is $85,229.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $102,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level AutoCAD Electrical professional, you need fundamental knowledge of electrical engineering concepts, blueprint reading, and a relevant associate degree or technical certification. Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical software and familiarity with related tools like PLC programming or schematic design platforms are typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate electrical drawings, collaborating with engineering teams, and ensuring project efficiency and safety.

What is the difference between Entry Level Autocad Electrical vs Electrical Drafter?

AspectEntry Level Autocad ElectricalElectrical Drafter
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certification, basic Autocad skillsAssociate degree or technical certification, proficiency in Autocad
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, construction companies, manufacturingEngineering firms, construction, manufacturing
Industry UsageDesigning electrical systems, circuit layoutsCreating detailed electrical drawings and schematics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Autocad Electrical and Electrical Drafter roles both require similar certifications and work in comparable environments. The main difference is that Entry Level Autocad Electrical focuses on designing electrical systems using Autocad, while Electrical Drafters primarily create detailed schematics and drawings. Both positions serve the electrical industry and often overlap in skills and responsibilities, making them common comparison points for job seekers.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an Entry Level AutoCAD Electrical professional?

As an Entry Level AutoCAD Electrical professional, you will typically assist in creating and updating electrical schematics, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams for various industrial or commercial projects. Your daily responsibilities may include drafting electrical drawings under the guidance of senior engineers, revising existing plans based on redlines, and ensuring all documentation meets relevant standards. You’ll often collaborate with engineers, designers, and other drafters, which helps you learn industry best practices and develop your technical skills. Over time, you may also support site visits, help with bill of materials, and gain exposure to project coordination, all of which can pave the way for career advancement.

What can I do with AutoCAD Electrical?

Entry Level Autocad Electrical professionals use the software to design, document, and troubleshoot electrical control systems and wiring diagrams. It helps create accurate schematics, automate tasks, and improve project efficiency, often requiring knowledge of electrical standards and CAD skills.

Can I get an AutoCAD job with no experience?

Entry-level AutoCAD electrical jobs often do not require prior professional experience, but familiarity with AutoCAD software and basic electrical drafting skills are essential. Gaining certifications or completing relevant training can improve chances of employment, even without work experience.

Is AI replacing AutoCAD?

AI is increasingly being integrated into AutoCAD and other CAD software to automate tasks like drafting, editing, and data analysis, but it is not replacing the core role of AutoCAD in electrical design. Entry level AutoCAD electrical professionals still need to understand electrical standards, create detailed schematics, and use the software effectively, with AI serving as a tool to enhance productivity rather than replace the skill set entirely.

Is AutoCAD useful for electricians?

AutoCAD is a valuable tool for entry-level electrical professionals, including electricians, as it allows for precise electrical system design, wiring diagrams, and layout planning. Proficiency in AutoCAD can improve accuracy and efficiency in project documentation and is often a required skill in electrical drafting and design roles.

What does an Entry Level AutoCAD Electrical professional do?

An Entry Level AutoCAD Electrical professional assists in creating, modifying, and maintaining electrical control schematics and wiring diagrams using AutoCAD Electrical software. They support engineers and senior designers by drafting layouts, updating documentation, and ensuring that all designs comply with industry standards and specifications. Their responsibilities often include collaborating with project teams, troubleshooting design issues, and learning best practices in electrical drafting. This role is ideal for those starting a career in electrical design or engineering, offering valuable hands-on experience.
Entry-level Electrical Design Engineer

Entry-level Electrical Design Engineer

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Rochester, NY

$30 - $34.86/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Salas O'Brien rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 369 rated engineering


Job description

Design Engineer

M/E Engineering, a Salas O’Brien company.

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us:

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary:

The Entry-Level Electrical Design Engineer is an entry-level to early-career engineering role responsible for supporting the design and development of building systems across a wide range of project types. This position works under the direction of senior engineering staff to develop layouts, perform engineering calculations, assist in the creation of construction documents, and ensure technical quality.

This role is designed to build the foundational skills required to advance into a Project Engineer position. The Entry-Level Electrical Design Engineer is expected to demonstrate initiative, curiosity, technical competency, and strong collaboration skills while actively supporting project execution. Displays M/E Engineering's core values on a daily basis- Stewardship, Approachability, Design Excellence, Professionalism and Integrity.

Responsibilities:

  • Works with Senior Engineer, Project Engineer, and or Principal.
  • Independently perform assignments after instructions as to the general results expected.
  • Receives guidance on unusual problems and supervisory approval on developed plans.
  • Assists in the preparation of contract documents.
  • Plans, schedules, and conducts all phases of the work in a part of or a total project of moderate scope.
  • Performs conventional engineering work including standard designs.
  • Makes engineering calculations.
  • Develop elementary designs expanding on detailed schematic sketches.
  • Coordinates production and coordination with Senior Engineer/Designer or Project Engineer/Designer.
  • May supervise or coordinate the work of CAD Operators and Designers.

Qualifications and Experience:

  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering (or related discipline/equivalent combination of experience and education).
  • Foundational understanding of building systems design (energy, etc.) preferred.
  • Basic knowledge of building codes, industry standards, and engineering principles preferred.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and design documents.
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD and/or Revit; basic understanding of BIM workflows preferred.
  • Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a team-oriented environment.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Location: Rochester or Buffalo, NY

Travel: Up to 15%

Compensation & Benefits:

The expected base salary range for this role is $30.00 - $34.86 USD per hour, hourly, non-exempt. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

This role is also eligible for a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement


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