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Entry Level Cad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thew Associates LS, PLLC

Survey CAD Operator

Marcy, NY · On-site

$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

$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 Company

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 ...

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 ...

Alro Steel Corp

CAD Operator

Orlando, FL

$18.25 - $25/hr

Overview Alro Steel is currently seeking a CAD Operator to join our team in Orlando, FL. Join the Alro team and start building your tomorrow! Whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced ...

Delaware Park Casino & Racing

CAD Operator

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Responsible for all computer aided design duties including design, drawing, replication and cataloged storage of architectural drawings and blueprints. * Responsible to transpose existing drawings ...

Alro Steel Corp

CAD Operator

Orlando, FL · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Overview Alro Steel is currently seeking a CAD Operator to join our team in Orlando, FL. Join the Alro team and start building your tomorrow! Whether you are a recent graduate or an experienced ...

Delaware Racing Association

CAD Operator

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Responsible for all computer aided design duties including design, drawing, replication and cataloged storage of architectural drawings and blueprints. * Responsible to transpose existing drawings ...

Bowhead

Drafter/CAD Operator IV

King George, VA · On-site

$21 - $28.25/hr

Overview Drafter/CAD Operator IV (H40-2026-25264) Bowhead seeks a Drafter/CAD Operator IV to support a newly awarded contract in Dahlgren, VA. This contract will provide configuration management (CM ...

GAI Consultants

Associate CAD Operator

Du Bois, PA · On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

GAI Consultants, Inc. is seeking an Associate CAD Operator. This position will be hybrid, based out of Dubois, PA. The ideal candidate has good analytical thinking, problem-solving techniques ...

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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
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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.

Survey CAD Operator

Thew Associates LS, PLLC

Marcy, NY • On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Thew Associates PE-LS, PLLC is a land and hydrographic surveying and mapping firm headquartered in Canton, New York with branch offices in Marcy (Utica), Saranac Lake, and Syracuse, New York. Thew Associates has been providing professional surveying services since 1972. As a result of our commitment to quality and service, Thew Associates is among the most respected surveying firms practicing in New York State.

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 drafting duties to support the firm's service areas.

Thew Associates' services include; surveying and mapping (topographic, boundary retracement, construction, hazardous waste site, and as-built surveying and mapping); hydrographic surveying and mapping (multi- and single beam acoustic, ADCP, magnetometer, sub-bottom profiling, and sediment sampling); and remote sensing (terrestrial laser scanning and sUAS surveying and mapping.)

The following education, experience, and skills are preferred:


  • Preferred A.A.S. in Surveying Technology or B.S. in Surveying Engineering or A.A.S. in Computer Aided Design and Drafting Technology
  • experience performing document research, processing of survey data, creating digital terrain models, and performing boundary line determination
  • excellent computer and technical skills; including AutoCAD Civil 3D and Microsoft Word and Excel. Experience with MicroStation is a plus
  • must be able to work independently
  • valid driver's license
  • willingness to embrace and learn new technologies

Salary will be commensurate with experience. Benefits include health insurance, employer 401(k) contribution and benefit time.

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