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Entry Level Cad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

GAI Consultants

Associate Substation CAD Operator

Lisle, IL · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

GAI Consultants is seeking an Associate Substation CAD Operator to support Substation projects. This position requires working with engineering and other technical subject matter experts in all ...

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 ...

Clayton Homes

Cad Operator

Waco, TX

$17.25 - $23.75/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 ...

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 ...

Kratos Defense

CAD Operator

Dallastown, PA

$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 ...

Clayton Homes

Cad Operator

Waco, TX · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/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 ...

Clayton Homes

CAD Operator

Middlebury, IN · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

Thew Associates LS, PLLC

Survey CAD Operator

Marcy, NY

$18.25 - $25/hr

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

AMS 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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsEntry Level Cad Operator Jobs

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 Jun 19, 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.

Will CAD drafters be replaced by AI?

CAD drafters are unlikely to be fully replaced by AI in the near future, as their role involves complex interpretation of design requirements and manual adjustments that AI cannot fully replicate. However, AI tools can assist with automating repetitive tasks and improving efficiency, making CAD operators more productive. Developing skills in CAD software and understanding design principles remain important for entry-level CAD operators.

What is CAD operator salary?

The salary for an entry-level CAD operator typically ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and experience. CAD operators use computer-aided design software like AutoCAD and often require basic technical skills and certifications to qualify for these roles.

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.

What are entry level CAD job titles?

Entry level CAD job titles typically include CAD Technician, Junior CAD Designer, CAD Drafter, or CAD Operator. These roles involve creating technical drawings and plans using CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks and often require basic knowledge of engineering or architectural principles. Advancement may lead to senior drafting or design positions with additional experience and certifications.

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.

How to become a CAD drafter with no experience?

To become an entry-level CAD drafter with no experience, you should learn CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks through online courses or tutorials, and develop basic drafting skills. Gaining knowledge of engineering or architectural principles and obtaining relevant certifications can improve your prospects, and internships or entry-level positions can provide practical experience.
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Entry Level Cad Operator jobs near you

CAD Operator

Weston Inc.

Warrensville Heights, OH

$19 - $26/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

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 the Leasing Team to design future tenant spaces while supporting the Development Team in creating possible site plans and analyzing future development opportunities. This role will be responsible for providing diagrams of meters to be incorporated into PDFs as well as keeping records current with correct tenant/utility information as necessary for move-ins, move-outs, expansions, retractions, etc.
What You Will Do
• Draft and manage building documents in AutoCAD
• Develop and design layouts for tenant spaces in AutoCAD
• Develop and draft building proposals on parcels
• Interpret and utilize ALTA survey drawings
• Organize and standardize information
• Develop drawings showing locations of utility meters, HVAC units, and emergency protection systems
• Verify accuracy of building drawings for newly acquired properties and redraw property if necessary or if drawings are missing or outdated
• Maintain database of utility account numbers and meter numbers
• Maintain accurate records of active meters for water, sewer, electric, gas, and steam meters for all properties
• Maintain up-to-date drawings of HVAC equipment, roof conditions, and building modifications made by tenants or Weston
• Create and maintain list of buildings and suite square footages in accordance with BOMA standard, to be used in leases
• Update building stacking plans as tenants move in and out of suites
• Trace out utility services and identify which serve specific tenant spaces
• Develop and maintain accurate and current processes amp; procedures for all duties/functions
Skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to convey information and ideas clearly
• Proven ability to evaluate and select among alternative courses of action quickly and accurately
• Must show initiative in job performance, including the ability to anticipate needs before they arise
• Ability to maintain professionalism, composure, and objectivity under pressure
• Skilled in handling problems in the workplace with the ability to anticipate, prevent, identify, and solve issues effectively and efficiently
• Ability to assimilate complex information, data, etc., from multiple sources and consider, adjust, or modify to meet the constraints of the particular need
• Effective at listening to, understanding, and clarifying the concerns and issues raised by co-workers and customers
• Ability to work with and understand financial information, data and perform basic mathematical functions
Education and Experience
• High School Diploma required
• Associate or Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 2-3 years of relevant work experience preferred
• Proficiency with:
o AutoCAD products
o Adobe Acrobat
o Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience with Adobe editing software or Bluebeam Revu is a plus
• Strong understanding of property surveys and survey interpretation
• Understanding of building codes and standards
• Strong research and analytical abilities
Physical Demands and Work Environment
• This position may require occasional lifting, standing, pulling, pushing, climbing, and bending
• This position is indicative of a typical office environment involving office equipment and supplies
• Field work is required including tracing utility lines and assessing warehouse roofs
• Occasional out-of-town travel (approximately once every other month) to update or create business drawings
• This is a full-time position. Typical work hours are Monday through Friday with occasional work outside of normal business hours
At Weston, Inc., we foster a dynamic and collaborative work environment where everyone is valued and respected. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees. Discrimination or harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic is strictly prohibited by federal, state, and local laws.
This extends to all aspects of employment, including hiring, recruitment, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. Our hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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