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Entry Level Cad Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SENIOR CAD DESIGNER/ASSOCIATE MANAGER BASIC JOB FUNCTION The CAD Designer II/Associate Manager is ... Proven ability to manage entry-level CAD Staff * Must effectively communicate with all project team ...

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SENIOR CAD DESIGNER/ASSOCIATE MANAGER BASICJOB FUNCTION The CAD Designer II/Associate Manager is a ... Proven ability to manage entry-level CAD Staff * Must effectively communicate with all project team ...

CAD Designer I

Saint Joseph, MI · On-site

$25.50 - $35.25/hr

CAD Designer I For over 90 years, LECO has been a leader in the development and production of world class laboratory instruments delivering state of the art products nationwide and across the globe.

Apply Early

CAD Designer I

Saint Joseph, MI

$25.50 - $35.25/hr

CAD Designer I For over 90 years, LECO has been a leader in the development and production of world class laboratory instruments delivering state of the art products nationwide and across the globe.

CAD Designer

Lakeland, FL · On-site

$26 - $36/hr

CAD Designer Location: Lakeland, FL Company: H2sOlutions Job Type: Full-Time About the Role H2sOlutions is looking for a motivated and detail-oriented CAD Designer to join our team in Lakeland, FL.

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SENIOR CAD DESIGNER/ASSOCIATE MANAGER BASIC JOB FUNCTION The CAD Designer II/Associate Manager is ... Proven ability to manage entry-level CAD Staff * Must effectively communicate with all project team ...

Apply Early

SENIOR CAD DESIGNER/ASSOCIATE MANAGER BASIC JOB FUNCTION The CAD Designer II/Associate Manager is ... Proven ability to manage entry-level CAD Staff * Must effectively communicate with all project team ...

Apply Early

CAD Designer

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$25.75 - $35.50/hr

The CAD designer is responsible for creating , modifying, and managing detailed technical drawings and 3D models from initial concepts, sketches, and specifications. The candidate plays a crucial ...

CAD Designer

West Bend, WI · On-site

$26.75 - $37/hr

Provides computer aided design (CAD) drafting, prepares drawings derived from a variety of specifications, layouts, and sketches. Transforms rough product designs into working documents using CAD ...

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CAD Designer I

Saint Joseph, MI · On-site

$25.50 - $35.25/hr

CAD Designer I For over 90 years, LECO has been a leader in the development and production of world class laboratory instruments delivering state of the art products nationwide and across the globe.

Survey CAD Designer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$23.50 - $32.50/hr

The Survey CAD Designer will support our survey and engineering teams by preparing detailed CAD drawings, maps, and design documents derived from survey data. This role involves working closely with ...

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Survey CAD Designer

New Orleans, LA · On-site

$25.75 - $35.50/hr

The Survey CAD Designer will support our survey and engineering teams by preparing detailed CAD drawings, maps, and design documents derived from survey data. This role involves working closely with ...

Survey CAD Designer

Daphne, AL · On-site

$23.50 - $32.50/hr

The Survey CAD Designer will support our survey and engineering teams by preparing detailed CAD drawings, maps, and design documents derived from survey data. This role involves working closely with ...

Apply Early

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Entry Level Cad Designer information

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

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cad designer in the United States is $31.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.96 and $35.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Entry Level CAD Designers?

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.

How to get an entry-level CAD job?

To secure an entry-level CAD designer position, develop proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks through coursework or self-study, and build a portfolio showcasing your work. Gaining relevant certifications and internships can also improve your chances, along with strong attention to detail and understanding of drafting standards.

How to get started as a CAD designer?

To start as an entry-level CAD designer, obtain a relevant degree such as an associate's or bachelor's in engineering, architecture, or design, and develop proficiency in CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or personal projects and earning certifications can improve job prospects.

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 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.

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.

Is AI replacing CAD designers?

AI is increasingly used to assist CAD designers by automating repetitive tasks and optimizing designs, but it does not fully replace the need for skilled human designers. Entry-level CAD designers still require proficiency in CAD software and design principles, as AI tools serve as supplements rather than substitutes for creative and technical expertise.

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 is the salary of AutoCAD with 1 year experience?

For an entry-level CAD designer with one year of experience, the average salary typically ranges from $45,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on location and industry. Proficiency in AutoCAD and related design skills can influence earning potential.
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cad Designer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Cad Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Designer jobs? The most popular types of Cad Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Cad Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Cad Designer jobs include:
Senior CAD Designer / Associate Manager

Senior CAD Designer / Associate Manager

West Yost

San Diego, CA • On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Who We Are:

West Yost is a water resource management and engineering firm focused exclusively on water. Since our founding in 1990, we have partnered with public agencies including cities, counties, utilities, and water districts to plan, design, and deliver water, wastewater, and stormwater solutions that support safe, reliable, and resilient communities.

Our team of more than 270 professionals brings together expertise in groundwater, water supply, treatment, infrastructure, recycled water, stormwater, construction management, and operations technology. We support projects from early planning and permitting through design and construction and complement our engineering services with program management and public outreach to help clients move work forward and engage their communities.

We are proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work®, and to be recognized among Fortune’s® Best Workplaces in Consulting and Professional Services from 2023 to 2025, as well as a top-ranked firm in the AEC Advisors Diversity Index. At West Yost, we are committed to being the water firm of choice for our clients and our team, advancing water resources for future generations through strong partnerships, practical solutions, and a shared commitment to quality.

Compensation Range: $80,205 - $110,520.  Based on our Lake Oswego office location.  (West Yost uses geographic salary differentials that would apply for candidates in other regions). 

Status: Full-time, Exempt

Location(s):  

  • Lake Oswego, Oregon
  • San Diego, California
  • Sacramento, California
  • Reno, Nevada
  • Concord, California
  • Irvine, California

 (https://www.westyost.com/locations/ ).

 

This is a Hybrid role with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote.

 

SENIOR CAD DESIGNER/ASSOCIATE MANAGER 

BASIC JOB FUNCTION 

The CAD Designer II/Associate Manager is a key member of the engineering team, with responsibility for drafting and design of various water and wastewater infrastructure projects in the public sector. They will collaborate with a team of civil engineers and project managers to provide outstanding engineering designs and construction documents. They will also assist the CAD Manager in tracking and balancing group CAD tasks and workload management.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES (IN ORDER OF IMPORTANCE) 

    • Develop 2D and 3D designs, drawings, plans, exhibits, and maps using Civil 3D
    • nder the guidance of the engineering team and project manager. 
    • Complete construction drawings for water and wastewater projects involving underground and above ground utilities including: pipelines; pumping and
    • booster stations; water and wastewater treatment plant, civil and process mechanical equipment and systems; structural and electrical, instrumentation, and control systems. 
    • Update, revise, and scale designs as necessary according to client feedback.
    • Work with other internal teams to get designs approved and executed. 
    • Assist the CAD Manager in balancing workload, tracking tasks and driving work
    • to completion.
    • Assist the CAD Manager in managing the CAD team.

QUALIFICATIONS 

    • Certification from a college or technical school or an Associate degree in CAD
    • Drafting or Design. 
    • 10+ year(s) of experience in CAD design for the A/E/C industry. 
    • Proficient with Bluebeam Revu, Civil 3D, and other 3D software
    • programs. Familiarity with Revit, BIM concepts, and MicroStation are a plus. 
    • Proficient in MS Office including Word and Excel. 
    • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. 
    • Proven ability to assist a team in balancing workload across a group.
    • Proven ability to manage entry-level CAD Staff
    • Must effectively communicate with all project team members. 

 

Travel Requirements

*This position may require travel to other offices and/or client offices.

 

A Little About the West Yost Life

You will experience many opportunities to grow and develop professionally with your colleagues through collaborative in-person work experience, knowledge sharing, and mentorship opportunities. We also offer hybrid and flexible work schedules to our employees to help promote and encourage a healthy work/life balance.  All of our team members have access to local and company-wide events, our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Workgroup, Culture Workgroup, Wellness Workgroup, book clubs, charitable giving and community service, firm-wide resources, peer groups (young professionals & middlers group), and mentorship and leadership programs.  We support and foster your career success and encourage you to be in control of your future with us.

At West Yost, we make space for connection across the firm. Each month, we hold an all-hands meeting that bring together team members from every location, including those working remotely, to stay aligned and engaged. Individual sectors and teams also hold their own monthly meeting. At the local level, our offices host gatherings, from camping trips and river rafting to community events and celebrations.

Once a year, we come together in person for our Annual All Staff event, a firmwide experience focused on learning, networking, and building relationships across teams. That evening, we continue our longest-standing tradition, the Duck Dinner, where West Yosters are encouraged to bring a guest and enjoy a night of great food, connection, and entertainment.

We work hard, and we place equal value on having fun.

Our commitment to quality begins with our hiring practices. We employ the most talented team members in our industry from all backgrounds. We are highly selective of the individuals we choose to represent the firm, seeking only those individuals whose technical abilities and commitment to client service matches our vision for excellence.  We are dedicated to our number one asset, our employees.  Because we are employee-owned, we are responsible for and rewarded by our own success. Come to West Yost where, with our support, you’ll do the best work of your life.

 

Standard Benefits:

We provide a comprehensive array of valuable benefits to protect your health, your family, and your way of life. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health saving accounts (with West Yost contribution), paid vacation, paid sick leave and holidays, two employee assistance programs, travel assistance program, 401(k) profit sharing with employer match, leaves of absence with additional supplemental paid time off, parental leave, life and AD&D insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, and even pet insurance.

Other Unique Benefits:

You’ll be provided with support in on-going education through our 529 college savings plan/student loan repayment program, tuition reimbursement, paid professional memberships, paid training, and Leadership Academy programs. You’ll be recognized for your contributions at West Yost through milestone anniversary benefits, peer to peer recognition programs, the potential for employee stock ownership, annual monetary and paid time off bonuses, performance-based bonus eligibility, merit increase eligibility, and employee referral bonuses. We also offer a wellness reimbursement.

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.