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Entry Level Design Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

CAD TECHNICIAN II

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

We are looking for an entry-level position in our Design, Drafting, and Engineering Department. Our preferred candidate will have some experience in CAD Drafting and Design. The ideal candidate will ...

You will design, implement, and configure automation systems, and/or write custom systems. We ... Responsibilities Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience RoviSys offers a broad ...

Launch Your Career Building Virginia's Transportation Infrastructure ATCS is seeking an Entry-Level ... Gain exposure to all phases of project development, from planning and design through construction

No experience required for an entry level position in the electric utility industry. More experience performing detailed CAD/design for high voltage substation projects could result in a higher pay ...

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Entry Level Design information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$19

$25

How much do entry level design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level design in Raleigh, NC is $19.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Design vs Graphic Designer?

AspectEntry Level DesignGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant courseworkBachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related field
Work EnvironmentInternships, junior roles, freelance projectsDesign agencies, corporate marketing teams, freelance
Industry UsageEntry positions in various industriesCreative and marketing industries
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in designEntry-level design roles and career path

Entry Level Design typically refers to initial roles requiring basic skills and minimal experience, often involving internships or freelance work. Graphic Designer is a more specific job title that usually requires a formal degree and involves creating visual content for clients or companies. While both roles serve as starting points in the design industry, Entry Level Design is broader, encompassing various entry positions, whereas Graphic Designer is a specialized role within the field.

What is an entry level design job?

An entry level design job is a starting position in the design industry, typically suited for recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles often involve assisting senior designers, creating basic design assets, and learning industry tools and workflows. Entry level designers may work in fields such as graphic design, web design, or industrial design, and are expected to have a foundational understanding of design principles and software like Adobe Creative Suite. The goal is to build practical skills, gain experience, and develop a professional portfolio to advance in the field.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Designer, you need a solid understanding of design principles, proficiency in visual communication, and a relevant degree or coursework in graphic, web, or industrial design. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and basic knowledge of design systems or prototyping platforms is important. Strong attention to detail, creativity, collaboration, and openness to feedback set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities enable designers to produce high-quality work, adapt to team needs, and grow in a fast-evolving creative field.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level design professional expect in their first year?

Entry-level design professionals typically work on a variety of supporting tasks, such as preparing drafts, creating visual assets, and assisting with layout or branding projects. They often collaborate closely with senior designers and art directors, gaining exposure to client feedback and the revision process. While responsibilities may start with smaller assignments, there are frequent opportunities to contribute ideas during team brainstorming sessions and to gradually take on more complex projects as skills develop. This hands-on experience is crucial for building a strong portfolio and understanding real-world design workflows.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Design jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Design jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Design job openings:
CAD TECHNICIAN II

CAD TECHNICIAN II

JDS Consulting, PLLC

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

JDS Consulting, a Raleigh-based engineering firm, is seeking individuals to join our Design, Drafting, and Engineering Department (DDE Division) on local and national projects. We are looking for an entry-level position in our Design, Drafting, and Engineering Department. Our preferred candidate will have some experience in CAD Drafting and Design. The ideal candidate will work with other drafters and designers to perform structural engineering and building design services for production home builders, custom home builders, and light commercial construction. Some of our projects have been featured on home improvement shows and have been further enjoyed by our customers for years.

Who we are:
Our product is progress.
At JDS Consulting, progress is the way we do business. Progress represents the rapid and streamlined manner in which we move clients from initial requests to final delivery. Progress represents the infrastructure improvements we make by delivering innovative yet practical solutions for every step of the life cycle. We measure progress by the value we bring to your investments, the reputation we build for excellence, and the lives we improve by creating safe, sustainable, and fulfilling spaces where people live, work, travel, and play.
JDS Priorities for 2026:
Employee experience & quality of life
Risk management
Communication & customer service
Lastly financial profitability


Position Summary


The preferred candidate will have experience in CAD Drafting and Design. The ideal candidate will collaborate with other drafters and designers to provide structural engineering and building design services for production home builders, custom home builders, and light commercial construction projects. Ideal candidate to have an architectural design background for national, regional, and custom builders.


Primary Responsibilities and Expectations


  • Highly detail-oriented

  • Self-motivated

  • Ability to work with focus and care

  • Interest in this field of work

  • Three years of AutoCAD experience required

  • Ability to follow complex written and oral instructions on simultaneous assignments

  • Ability to read design drawings, maps, and sketches

  • Reasonable ability to sketch concepts for graphic representation

  • Reasonable ability to perform mathematical and statistical computations

  • Some knowledge of the techniques, practices, methods, and procedures of building inspection

  • In-field construction experience desired

  • Intermediate knowledge of standard construction practices and details

  • Education in related fields is desired

  • Must be authorized to work in the US

  • Knowledge of the techniques, practices, methods, and procedures of AutoCAD /or computer-aided design. Ability to communicate with clients verbally, orally, and timely.

  • Intermediate knowledge of MS Word, Excel, Outlook, and Gmail, and the ability and willingness to learn new software applications.

  • Excellent organizational skills, communication skills, the ability to multitask, and most importantly, the ability to work well in a team.

  • Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey data, both internal and external

  • Highly Proficient with Microsoft, Adobe Acrobat, and Google applications.

  • Excellent time management skills with a high attention to detail.

  • Must be able to manage multiple projects at a time and communicate with clients and managers about project status regularly


An in-person or remote assessment will be required to ensure qualifications and CAD technician skills.


Position is open to remote workers in the EST time zone.



Benefits (After 60 Days of Employment):
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental Insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • 9 Paid holidays
  • Paid time off (vacation, sick, bereavement, parental leave)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
  • Bonus structure

Required education:
Associate's or Bachelor’s degree from a U.S. accredited university in Civil or Construction Engineering or a related field.

A job for which military-experienced candidates are encouraged to apply.