2

Entry Level Cad Designer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

CAD Technician I

Hixson, TN · On-site

$29 - $33/hr

CAD Technician I Komline As a pioneering leader in advanced separation technologies, Komline has established a global reputation for engineering excellence. Through our combination of innovative ...

CAD Drafter/Dseginer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Practical CAD, drafting, reverse engineering, inspection, or manufacturing experience is more important for this position. This SOLIDWORKS Engineering Technician will work through a large list of ...

Company Description IT Role: CAD Engineer Location: Memphis, TN Duration: Fulltime BGV will be done ... Create designs/drafts using AutoCad, MS Visio, or other software Produce, consistent, high quality ...

Showing results 41-60

Entry Level Cad Designer information

See Tennessee salary details

$14

$28

$38

How much do entry level cad designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cad designer in Tennessee is $28.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $32.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level CAD designer?

Entry Level CAD Designers are professionals who use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and plans for products, buildings, or structures. They typically work under the supervision of senior designers or engineers, translating concepts and specifications into detailed blueprints. This role is ideal for individuals who are new to the field and have recently completed relevant education or training. Entry Level CAD Designers often assist with revising designs, preparing documentation, and collaborating with other team members to ensure projects meet standards and deadlines.

What does an entry level CAD designer do?

As an entry-level CAD designer, you perform many of the same duties and responsibilities as CAD designers with more experience, but you learn some duties during on-the-job training. As an entry-level CAD designer, you apply computer-aided drafting skills while learning more about drafting tools like NX, Inventor, and Solidworks. You prepare figures and construction drawings and take blueprints from engineers to reformat them digitally using CAD software. You are also in charge of inspecting designs to make sure that they meet safety specifications. If you notice errors in the design that may compromise quality or safety, you need to make appropriate changes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level CAD designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level CAD Designer, you need a foundational understanding of drafting principles, spatial reasoning, and a relevant associate degree or technical certification. Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is typically expected, along with familiarity with industry-specific standards. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate design work, efficient collaboration with engineering teams, and successful project outcomes.

What are some typical projects and collaborative tasks an entry level CAD designer can expect to work on?

As an Entry Level CAD Designer, you will likely be involved in creating and modifying technical drawings and blueprints under the guidance of senior designers or engineers. Your daily tasks might include updating existing designs, preparing layouts, and ensuring that drawings meet project specifications and industry standards. Collaboration is key—you'll often work closely with engineers, architects, and other CAD professionals to incorporate feedback and ensure accuracy. This team-based environment helps develop your technical skills while also building strong communication and problem-solving abilities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cad Designer vs Junior CAD Technician?

AspectEntry Level Cad DesignerJunior CAD Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certification in CAD or draftingHigh school diploma; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, architecture firmsConstruction sites, engineering firms, architectural offices
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in architecture, engineering, product designUsed in construction, civil engineering, infrastructure projects

Both roles involve CAD software use, but Entry Level Cad Designers focus more on creating detailed designs and drawings, while Junior CAD Technicians often assist with drafting and technical support. The roles are similar in industry and credentials but differ slightly in responsibilities and work settings.

How to become an entry level CAD designer with no experience?

To become an entry-level CAD designer with no experience, focus on learning CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks through online tutorials or courses, and build a portfolio of simple projects to demonstrate your skills. Gaining foundational knowledge in drafting, engineering principles, and technical drawing can improve your employability, and obtaining relevant certifications can also enhance your prospects.

Is there a demand for entry level CAD designers?

There is steady demand for entry-level CAD designers across industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, especially as companies seek new talent familiar with CAD software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks. Employers often look for candidates with basic technical skills, a relevant portfolio, and the ability to learn quickly, making entry-level positions accessible for recent graduates or those with limited experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Designer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Cad Designer jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Tennessee?

For Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Cad Designer jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Cad Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cad Designer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,896 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

Drafter - CAD Operator (DR3)

BNH

Arnold Air Force Base, TN • On-site

$24.90/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Drafter- CAD Operator

Location: Arnold AFB, TN

Job Family Code: O - Engineering

Function/Branch: Design & Manufacturing

Directorate: Engineering & Tech Support

Position Type: Regular, Full Time

Pay Type: Non-Exempt

Sponsorship: Position Not Sponsored

Grade: L05 (OA0501)

Minimum Starting Hourly Rate: $24.90 / hour     

 

Overview

Open to Internal/External candidates. Beyond New Horizons, LLC (BNH) has an exciting opportunity for a Drafter-CAD Operator, supporting TOS II, at Arnold Air Force Base in Arnold, TN. The Drafter will be working as a member of an integrated team responsible for supporting the United States Air Force Test Operations and Sustainment efforts.

Job Summary

Drafter-CAD operators will apply their software skills with commercial drafting programs to work with engineers and create designs for new systems and facilities, as well as modifications and upgrades to existing systems and facilities.

 

Primary responsibility for developing and maintaining:

  • Piping layout drawings and schematics for liquid and gaseous fluid system.
  • Single line drawings for low, medium, and high voltage power distribution systems
  • Facility and building layouts
  • Electrical drawings for process controls of facility & test systems
  • Machined Parts

Job Duties:

 

Under general supervision, and according to established standards and procedures, prepares engineering drawings from rough sketches, marked-up prints, or from general engineering and design information. Supervisor provides general instructions on new assignments, gives guidance when questions arise, and reviews completed work for accuracy.  Typical assignments may include:

 

  • Prepare complete engineering drawings or diagrams delineating equipment, engineered systems, structures and plant arrangements with sufficient detail in drawings to guide manufacturers in developing shop drawings and to guide construction in their work.
  • Generate 3-D CAD design models based on information from others
  • Work with engineers and other designers in the overall assignment to coordinate designs
  • Compile, maintain and access job drawing files, records, and drawing controls, as instructed
  • Make basic mathematical calculations related to the group’s drawing responsibilities.
  • Prepare “as-built” drawings to reflect changes to designated work during construction, operations.
  • Complex revisions are produced from sketches, computer models or specifications that clearly depict the desired product.
  • As assigned, check work of less experienced drafters for accuracy, presentation, and compliance to AEDC drafting standards
  • Selects required information from computer programs, internet sites, precedents, manufacturers' catalogs, and technical guides.
  • Independently resolves most of the problems encountered. Supervisor or design originator may suggest methods of approach or provide advice on unusually difficult problems.
  • It is a condition of employment to wear company issued PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) in accordance with supervisory direction and company policy.
  • Perform other related duties as required.

 

Basic Qualifications:

 

  • Vocational school drafting certification that comprises of at least two semesters in Drafting or CAD operations or 9 semester hours of college with courses relevant to drafting and/or design plus a minimum of one year of relevant drafting & drawing experience. (Transcripts and curriculum must be submitted demonstrating relevant competencies have been achieved).
  • A minimum of four (4) years of progressive and relevant drafting experience or any combination of education/training and progressive and relevant experience
  • United States Citizenship is required

 

Preferred Qualifications

 

  • Experience with Autodesk software, particularly AutoCAD, Inventor, Plant 3D
  • Sound knowledge of CAD design and drafting techniques, engineering drawing, graphic arts, reading of drawings and reproduction methods used by the group
  • Experience with ASME Y14.5 GD&T
  • Basic computer skills such as use of Microsoft Office products, file naming, and computer folder structures
  • Skill in reading, interpreting and using related documents and drawings prepared by other project groups
  • Experience with AEDC design practices and processes
  • Experience with 3D modeling software
  • Current or prior Department of Defense Security Clearance

What We Offer

  • Competitive salaries
  • Continuing education assistance
  • Multiple healthcare benefits packages
  • 401K with employer matching
  • Paid time off (PTO) along with a federally recognized holiday schedule

 

U.S. Citizenship is required. At this time BNH will not sponsor any applicants for employment authorization or offer any immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1b, F1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, E-2, E-3, L-1, or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer).

The minimum and maximum full-time annual salaries for this role are listed below, by location. Please note that this salary information is solely for candidates hired to perform work within one of these locations and refers to the amount BNH is willing to pay at the time of this posting. Salaries for part-time jobs will be adjusted based upon the number of hours agreed to work.

$24.90/hour at location TN 

BNH is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, veteran status, and any other grounds for discrimination prohibited by applicable law.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training