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Entry Level Autocad Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Drafter

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Develop entry-level drawings by using computer-aided design software under the direct supervision ... Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite * 3 years plus of professional experience with AutoCAD ...

VDC Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28 - $46/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE AutoCAD/Revit Modeler: This is the entry level of technical work requiring a AutoCAD and Revit certification or the equivalent of a degree in appropriate education and experience.

VDC Technician

San Jose, CA · On-site

$28 - $46/hr

ABOUT THE ROLE AutoCAD/Revit Modeler: This is the entry level of technical work requiring a AutoCAD and Revit certification or the equivalent of a degree in appropriate education and experience.

ABOUT THE ROLE AutoCAD/Revit Modeler: This is the entry level of technical work requiring a AutoCAD and Revit certification or the equivalent of a degree in appropriate education and experience.

Civil Design Engineer

Corona, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

S. in Civil Engineering with 1 to 3 years' experience in civil engineering field. (Entry level also considered) * E.I.T. certification preferred. * Proficiency in computer design programs AutoCAD ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Autocad information

See California salary details

$15

$22

$28

How much do entry level autocad jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level autocad 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 are entry level AutoCAD jobs?

Entry level AutoCAD jobs are positions for individuals who are new to using AutoCAD, a computer-aided design (CAD) software. These roles typically involve creating and editing technical drawings or blueprints under the supervision of more experienced designers or engineers. Responsibilities may include drafting plans for architecture, engineering, or manufacturing projects, making revisions based on feedback, and learning industry standards. Entry-level AutoCAD roles are ideal for recent graduates or those looking to start a career in drafting or design. Basic knowledge of AutoCAD and attention to detail are usually required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level AutoCAD technician?

To thrive as an Entry Level AutoCAD Technician, you need a solid understanding of drafting principles, technical drawing, and typically an associate degree or relevant coursework in drafting or engineering. Proficiency in AutoCAD software and familiarity with other CAD tools or industry-specific platforms are critical for producing accurate digital drawings. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication help you interpret design requirements and collaborate with engineers or architects. These skills ensure precise project documentation and efficient teamwork, which are vital for successful project delivery.

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

Entry-level AutoCAD professionals often face challenges such as adapting to varying drafting standards, managing tight project deadlines, and ensuring accuracy in their drawings. To overcome these, it's helpful to regularly review company CAD standards, communicate proactively with senior team members, and seek feedback on your work. Additionally, using checklists and double-checking dimensions can help reduce errors and improve efficiency.

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

AspectEntry Level AutocadEntry Level Civil Drafter
Required SkillsProficiency in AutoCAD, basic drafting, and design skillsAutoCAD, civil drafting standards, topographic mapping
Work EnvironmentArchitectural, engineering, or design firmsConstruction, civil engineering, infrastructure projects
CertificationsAutoCAD certification often preferredAutoCAD certification, civil drafting courses
Industry UsageDesign and architecture firmsEngineering and construction companies

While both roles require proficiency in AutoCAD, Entry Level Autocad focuses on general drafting skills for various design projects, whereas Entry Level Civil Drafter specializes in civil engineering drawings for infrastructure projects. The choice depends on your industry interest and specific skill set.

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

The most popular types of Autocad jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Autocad job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,140 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Structural Design Engineer (Entry-Level)

DN LLC

El Cajon, CA

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices.

  • Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.

  • Collaborate with construction teams and project managers to ensure design integrity from concept to completion.


Job description

Our culture is rooted in a shared vision — to help keep the world’s most precious resource safe — and in the core values that guide us in pursuing this vision and delivering on our mission to clients.

We provide the highest quality liquid storage design and construction services at the best long-term value with an unrivaled customer experience. We have built over 3,500 pre-stressed concrete liquid storage tanks over the past 90 years around the country and world, as a result we have become the leader in the industry when it comes to quality and innovation. 


Are you ready to design and build something that lasts? At DN, we don’t just construct tanks—we engineer resilience, reliability, and innovation into every project in order to protect the world’s most precious resource. We are seeking a Structural Design Engineer (Entry-Level) to join our team, bringing expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills to our industry-leading water solutions.
 
At DN, we push the boundaries of structural engineering to create durable, long-lasting concrete storage tanks for all water. Our projects span across the country, providing critical infrastructure that supports communities and businesses. We are committed to excellence, teamwork, and forward-thinking solutions.
What You'll Do:
    • Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices.
    • Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.
    • Utilize FEA modeling software to streamline designs
    • Collaborate with construction teams and project managers to ensure design integrity from concept to completion.
    • Engage in problem-solving and troubleshooting during project execution.
    • Stay ahead of industry advancements and integrate new technologies into designs.
Qualifications:
 
Required
    • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis
    • 0–2 years of structural engineering experience (additional experience considered for higher-level positions)
    • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification  
    • Understands steel and concrete behavior and applies engineering principles to real-world design challenges
    • Proficient in SAP 2000/SAFE, MS products, AutoCAD, and structural modeling software
    • Strong communication and critical thinking skills required to thrive in a team-driven environment
 
Preferred
    • Internship or co-op experience in structural engineering
    • Exposure to industrial, water, wastewater, or heavy civil infrastructure projects
    • Experience with Revit, AutoCAD, or BIM workflows
    • Exposure to ACI 350
    • Professional Engineer (PE) license or active pursuit of licensure
Total Rewards
Our Total Rewards offerings are designed to invest in our employees and their families, including:
 
    • Competitive base compensation plus eligibility for DN’s annual incentive bonus program
    • 401(k) retirement plan consisting of a 100% employer match on the first 6% of employee contributions and an additional 3% Safe Harbor company contribution
    • Medical coverage effective on date of hire, with DN covering 80%–85% of premiums depending on plan selection
    • Dental coverage effective on date of hire, with DN covering 75% of premiums
    • Voluntary vision coverage effective on date of hire
    • Flexible Spending Account options for eligible medical, dental and dependent-care expenses
    • Company-paid life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment coverage, and long-term disability coverage
    • Paid time off starting at 16 days annually, increasing with tenure, plus 9 paid holidays each year
    • Half-day Fridays between July 4 and Labor Day
    • Paid parental leave for birth mothers and spouses or committed partners
    • Employee Assistance Program available at no cost to employees and household members for work/life support
    • Tuition reimbursement 
    • Gym reimbursement
    • Employee referral incentive program 
    • Career growth, internal mobility and professional development opportunities within a stable, purpose-driven company
This is our good faith estimate of the base salary compensation range for this opportunity. Individual pay decisions will vary based upon the experience and qualifications of the applicant. This range is based on market rates and determined by considering many factors such as external market salary survey data, internal data for comparable roles, and the operational and budgetary objectives of the company.

At DN, we're building careers—not just filling positions. If this role excites you but your experience doesn't align perfectly with the listed qualifications, we still encourage you to apply. We consider candidates across multiple engineering levels and are committed to placing great people where they can make the biggest impact and continue to grow.


DN is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age, or any other federally protected class. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.


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About ēdn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing and household appliance manufacturing

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

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