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Entry Level Cad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Clayton Homes

Cad Operator

Buckeye, AZ · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

From entry-level to more experienced positions, we're actively recruiting individuals who are ... The CAD Technician is responsible for producing drawing files for production and submitting plans ...

Weston Inc.

CAD Operator

Warrensville Heights, OH

$19 - $26/hr

JOB TITLE: CAD Operator DEPARTMENT: Project Management REPORTS TO: Director of Project Management STATUS: Full-Time, Salaried, Exempt About the Role The CAD Operator will collaborate with tenants and ...

Kratos Defense

CAD Operator

Dallastown, PA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Support CAD Designers by creating working drawings for basic shelters and mechanical and electrical modifications, including rack installations, ECU installations, entry panel installations, lighting ...

GAI Consultants

CAD Operator 3

Albany, NY · On-site

$38 - $44/hr

As a CAD Group member, you will support a multidiscipline engineering and surveying team and work ... CAD Operators. Given general instructions and works independently with minimal supervision.

Adecco

CAD Designer/CAD Operator

Sharon, PA

$75K - $90K/yr

CAD Designer / CAD Operator Direct Hire | Full-Time Salary: $75k-$90k DOE +/- Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K We're looking for a detail-oriented CAD Designer to join our manufacturing team!

Clayton Homes

CAD Operator

Middlebury, IN

$17.50 - $24/hr

From entry-level to more experienced positions, we're actively recruiting individuals who are ... The CAD Technician is responsible for producing drawing files for production and submitting plans ...

vetegrity

CAD Operator

Englewood, CO · On-site

$65K/yr

- Provides CAD support and Configuration Management services - Utilize (Army Corps of Engineering) CAD standards for all in house design as well as as-built drawings. - Conducts site surveys to verify ...

Schnabel Engineering

Entry-Level CAD Designer

Helena, MT · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

The Helena, Montana office is seeking an entry level CAD Designer to support our engineering group. We are looking for a motivated candidate with attention to detail, a passion to continue to develop ...

Schnabel Inc.

Entry-Level CAD Designer

Helena, MT · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

The Helena, Montana office is seeking an entry level CAD Designer to support our engineering group. We are looking for a motivated candidate with attention to detail, a passion to continue to develop ...

GDIT

Drafter/CAD Operator I (Entry Level)

Chesapeake, VA · Hybrid

$17.85 - $24.15/hr

Yes Drafter/CAD Operator I Seize your opportunity to make a personal impact as a Drafter/CAD Operator I supporting multiple government customers. GDIT is your place to make meaningful contributions ...

Ameren Services

CAD Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Produce and revise drawings with AutoCAD or other related CAD tools * Create, revise, and maintain detailed electrical drawings, including substation layouts, transmission and distribution plans ...

Thew Associates LS, PLLC

Survey CAD Operator

Liverpool, NY

$18.75 - $25.75/hr

We are seeking highly motivated CAD Operators, at our Canton, Marcy, and Syracuse locations. The selected candidate(s) will work under the direction of a Land Surveyor to perform a broad range of ...

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Entry Level Cad Operator information

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$15

$22

$34

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cad operator in the United States is $22.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cad Operator vs Junior Civil Designer?

AspectEntry Level Cad OperatorJunior Civil Designer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic CAD trainingAssociate's degree or related certification, some CAD experience
Work EnvironmentOffice setting, CAD drafting tasksOffice environment, design and drafting support
Employer & Industry UsageArchitectural, engineering, construction firmsCivil engineering firms, infrastructure projects
Common Search & ComparisonEntry Level Cad Operator vs Junior Civil Designer

The Entry Level Cad Operator typically performs basic CAD drafting tasks with minimal experience, focusing on technical drawing support. In contrast, a Junior Civil Designer often has more design responsibilities and may require additional education or certifications. Both roles are common in engineering and construction industries, but the Junior Civil Designer usually involves more complex design work and project involvement.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level CAD Operator, you need a solid understanding of drafting principles, attention to detail, and typically a technical diploma or associate degree in drafting or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks is essential, and some employers may prefer certifications like Autodesk Certified User. Strong organizational skills, communication, and the ability to collaborate with engineers or architects help you stand out in this role. These competencies ensure accurate drawings, efficient project workflows, and effective teamwork in design and engineering environments.

Can a CAD technician be entry level?

Yes, entry-level CAD technicians are common and typically require basic knowledge of CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks, along with a relevant diploma or certification. These roles often involve supporting senior designers and engineers, and may require on-the-job training to develop technical skills and familiarity with industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level CAD Operators during their first year on the job?

Entry level CAD Operators often face challenges such as adapting to company-specific CAD standards, learning to efficiently interpret technical drawings, and managing feedback from more experienced engineers or designers. Balancing accuracy with speed while meeting tight deadlines is also a common hurdle. However, most teams provide mentorship and on-the-job training to help new hires develop their skills and become more confident in handling complex projects.

Are CAD operators in demand?

CAD operators are in steady demand across industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, especially as companies seek skilled professionals to create precise technical drawings. Proficiency in CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks and relevant certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.

What are entry level CAD job titles?

Entry level CAD job titles typically include CAD Technician, CAD Drafter, Junior CAD Operator, and CAD Intern. These roles involve creating technical drawings and models using CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks, often requiring basic knowledge of drafting standards and attention to detail.

How to get an entry level CAD job?

To secure an entry-level CAD operator position, candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent, proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks, and basic knowledge of drafting standards. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, certifications, or relevant coursework can improve job prospects, and strong attention to detail is essential in this role.

What are Entry Level CAD Operators?

Entry Level CAD Operators are professionals who use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and plans under the supervision of more experienced designers or engineers. They typically work in fields like architecture, engineering, manufacturing, or construction, assisting in the creation of blueprints, schematics, and layouts. These roles are ideal for individuals new to the industry, offering hands-on experience with CAD software and the opportunity to learn industry standards and practices. Entry Level CAD Operators usually work as part of a team and are responsible for updating drawings, making revisions, and ensuring accuracy according to project specifications.
More about Entry Level Cad Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cad Operator jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Cad Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Operator jobs? The most popular types of Cad Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Cad Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Cad Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cad Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cad Operator jobs are:
Entry Level Cad Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cad Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,588 per year, or $22.9 per hour.
Drafter/CAD Operator I (Entry Level)

Drafter/CAD Operator I (Entry Level)

General Dynamics Information Technology

Chesapeake, VA • Hybrid

$17.85 - $24.15/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

General Dynamics Information Technology rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th of 210 rated it services

Job description

Share
REQ#: RQ223506Public Trust: None Requisition Type: Regular Your Impact

Own your opportunity to support our nation's defense. Make an impact by connecting and securing critical operations across the globe, keeping our country safe and secure.

Job Description

Drafter/CAD Operator I
Seize your opportunity to make a personal impact as a Drafter/CAD Operator I supporting multiple government customers. GDIT is your place to make meaningful contributions to challenging projects and grow a rewarding career.
We are seeking self-motivated individuals with strong communication skills and a passion to gain professional experience and knowledge in a team environment. You should be a detail-oriented professional, understand the importance of meeting personal and team commitments and be flexible in adapting to a fast-paced environment.
HOW A DRAFTER/CAD OPERATOR I WILL MAKE AN IMPACT
Communicate and coordinate project activities with internal team members
Work with the team to prepare drawings from engineering and/or field markups for designers and engineers and coordinate CAD for projects
Assist the Shipboard Installation Planning Team by completing drawing trackers in excel.
WHAT YOULL NEED TO SUCCEED:

Education: High School Diploma/GED

Required Experience: 0-2 years of related experience

Security Clearance Level: Must be able to obtain a Secret level security clearance

Required Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of 2D CAD, ability to read structural and electrical drawings, able to create CAD drawings from hand sketches, proficient use of office software (such as Outlook, Word, Excel, Access, etc.)

Preferred Skills: 3D CAD, knowledge of marine industry and marine vocabulary

Location: Chesapeake, VA, 23320

US Citizenship Required


GDIT IS YOUR PLACE:
Hybrid work week (2 days remote, 3 days in office)
401K with company match
Comprehensive health and wellness packages
Internal mobility team dedicated to helping you own your career
Professional growth opportunities including paid education and certifications
Cutting-edge technology you can learn from
Rest and recharge with paid vacation and holidays

Work Requirements
Years of Experience

0 + years of related experience

* may vary based on technical training, certification(s), or degree

Certification
Travel Required

10-25%

Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship Required

Salary and Benefit Information

The likely hourly rate for this position is between $17.85 - $24.15. This is not, however, a guarantee of compensation or salary. Rather, salary will be set based on experience, geographic location and possibly contractual requirements and could fall outside of this range.
View information about benefits and our total rewards program.

Our Identity Verification Process

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during virtual interviews. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. By proceeding, you authorize the collection, processing, and use of your biometric data for identity verification and security purposes.

About Our Work

We are GDIT. A global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense and intelligence community. Our 26,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. We operate across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading mission-ready capabilities in AI, cloud, cyber and software development.

Join our Talent Community to stay up to date on our career opportunities and events at gdit.com/tc.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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About General Dynamics Information Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GDIT is a global technology and professional services company that delivers technology solutions and mission services to every major agency across the U.S. government, defense, and intelligence community. Its 30,000 experts extract the power of technology to create immediate value and deliver solutions at the edge of innovation. The company operates across 50+ countries worldwide, offering leading capabilities in digital modernization, AI/ML, cloud, cyber, and application development.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

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