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Entry Level Drafter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Mechanical Drafter

San Diego, CA · On-site

Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and one or more year(s) of experience as an entry level drafter. May substitute additional education in lieu of work experience. * Must have a ...

Residential Fire Systems, Inc.

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Entry Level Draftsman

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Entry level Draftsmen: Duties will be assisting the engineering team by preparing the necessary files for design, redlines, as-built, minor corrections, creating details, submitting to local building ...

RimePro Inc

Plumbing Drafter / Detailer

Alameda, CA · On-site

The company is open to candidates ranging from entry-level through intermediate experience, provided they have the right combination of plumbing knowledge, technical education, and drafting ...

347 Group, Inc.

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Engineering Drafter

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Develop entry-level drawings by using computer-aided design software under the direct supervision ... planning, drafting, and detailing * Perform other duties as needed Required Qualifications

EnCore

Drafter

Huntington Beach, CA

Following company drafting standards and engineering practices * Verifying quantities, materials ... Open to both entry-level and experienced candidates. Skills: * Ability to manage multiple tasks ...

EnCore

Drafter

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Following company drafting standards and engineering practices * Verifying quantities, materials ... Open to both entry-level and experienced candidates. Skills: * Ability to manage multiple tasks ...

M.R. Mold & Engineering

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Associate injection mold designer - Entry Level.

Brea, CA · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

In this entry-level role, you will work closely with senior designers and engineers to translate ... Key Responsibilities * CAD Drafting & Modeling: Utilize 3D CAD software to create precise technical ...

VOLT

Entry Level Mechanical Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$30 - $32/hr

As an entry level Mechanical Design Engineer, you will: * Create and maintain the Mechanical and ... The successful candidate will have a working knowledge of engineering drawings and drafting ...

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Entry Level Drafter information

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$15

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How much do entry level drafter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drafter in California is $22.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level drafter?

An Entry Level Drafter is a professional who uses computer-aided design (CAD) software or manual drafting techniques to create technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, architecture, or engineering projects. They work under the supervision of senior drafters or engineers to produce detailed layouts, diagrams, and schematics based on specifications and sketches. Entry level drafters are often responsible for making revisions, ensuring drawings comply with industry standards, and assisting with documentation. This role is ideal for individuals starting their careers in drafting and design, usually requiring a certificate or associate degree in drafting or a related field.

What does an entry level drafter do?

An entry-level drafter uses computer programs such as CAD and AutoCAD to create scale drawings for construction projects or product manufacturing. In this job, your duties include using engineering plans to create diagrams that builders and manufacturers will then apply to their construction or production projects. You may also work on very detailed designs, such as an electronic switchboard. Your responsibilities also include incorporating the designs of the architect, if applicable, and information about all necessary codes and regulations. An entry-level drafter may work on one aspect of the drawings under the direction of a manager.

What skills do I need as an entry level drafter?

To thrive as an Entry Level Drafter, you need a basic understanding of drafting principles, technical drawing, and proficiency in mathematics, often supported by an associate degree or certification in drafting or a related field. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks is typically required. Attention to detail, good communication, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for producing accurate technical drawings that serve as the foundation for engineering and construction projects.

What types of projects and tasks can an entry level drafter expect to work on in their first year?

As an Entry Level Drafter, you can expect to assist with creating technical drawings and plans under the guidance of senior drafters or engineers. Your daily tasks will likely include updating existing blueprints, converting sketches into digital formats using CAD software, and ensuring drawings meet project specifications and standards. You'll also collaborate closely with design teams and may attend project meetings to understand requirements. This hands-on exposure helps you build practical skills and provides a foundation for more complex drafting responsibilities as you gain experience.

What is the difference between Entry Level Drafter vs Junior CAD Technician?

AspectEntry Level DrafterJunior CAD Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic CAD trainingHigh school diploma, CAD certification or training
Work EnvironmentArchitectural, engineering, manufacturing firmsEngineering, construction, manufacturing companies
Industry UsageCommonly used in design and drafting rolesOften used interchangeably with Entry Level Drafter in technical settings

Both roles involve CAD software use and basic drafting tasks, but Junior CAD Technicians typically have more specialized training or certifications. Entry Level Drafters focus on learning drafting standards, while Junior CAD Technicians may assist with more complex projects. Both positions serve as stepping stones into technical careers in design and engineering industries.

Are entry level drafters still in demand?

Entry level drafters are still in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, especially as companies seek to fill positions requiring proficiency in CAD software like AutoCAD or Revit. Demand varies by region and industry growth, but overall, the role remains a valuable entry point for careers in design and technical drafting.

How to become an entry level drafter with no experience?

To become an entry-level drafter with no experience, focus on obtaining a relevant education such as a high school diploma or technical training in drafting or CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Building a portfolio of practice drawings and gaining familiarity with industry standards can improve employability; some employers may also offer on-the-job training or internships for beginners.
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Entry Level Drafter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Drafter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,140 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Mechanical Drafter

San Diego, CA • On-site

General Atomics
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about General Atomicsexternal

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.
The Design Services group within GA-EMS supports the entire organization with design and drawing releases, both new development and sustainment. We are hiring a Mechanical Drafter to join this team in Rancho Bernardo.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Use computer-aided design (CAD), plans layouts, drawings, and revises detailed part, assembly, and installation engineering drawings from basic layouts, established references, and standard data.
  • Makes frequent simple decisions in absence of clear-cut precedents. Completes details of major layout drawings prepared by others in accordance with standard engineering drafting practices.
  • /Working from engineering notes, written instructions, and detailed sketches with some latitude for independent action, prepares readable detailed drawings, parts list, sketches, schematics, assemblies, and installation drawings for engineering or manufacturing purposes.
  • Creates new or completes revised drawings showing dimensions, tolerances, tabulations, and appropriate sectional views in accordance with established procedures, practices, standards, machinist handbooks, and vendor catalog data.
  • Verifies own completed work, checking dimensions, materials to be used, and quantities.
  • Incorporates changes to existing drawings including redrawing or tracing as appropriate and making rearrangements of views according to instructions.
  • Uses standard CAD digitizing techniques and skills required to perform the required tasks. These may include but are not limited to creating and modifying 2D or 3D wire frame or solid model geometry, and creating and changing text, dimensions, or part lists.
  • Revises CAD or hand drawn board drawings as needed
  • Maintains records, files, drawings and part lists, or other data essential to the completion of engineering drawings as required.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the company.
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices. Additional Functions Other duties as assigned or required.
  • Manage the incoming design work queue and organize requests based on priority and urgency
  • Assign design tasks to team members according to workload, skills, and high priority items
  • Maintain a detailed log of workflow between design groups, including stakeholders and deadlines
  • Track status of each task and follow up to keep work moving to completion
  • Provide clear, concise status updates to the team to identify what is active, what is blocked, and incoming work
  • Early career designer who is comfortable balancing hands on design work with coordination tasks
  • Highly organized and detail oriented, with strong follow through
  • Able to multi-task requests and adjust priorities as needs change
  • Must have excellent communication, computer, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills, ability to work independently and as part of a team.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and one or more year(s) of experience as an entry level drafter. May substitute additional education in lieu of work experience.
  • Must have a working knowledge of basic drawing techniques and be skilled using 2D and 3D CAD modeling. SolidWorks experience is preferred.
  • Must be familiar with industry practices and standards. Requires intermediate knowledge in trigonometry, algebra, and plane and solid geometry as generally acquired through high school and/or trade school studies.
  • Requires good organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Must have a sound knowledge of computer operations and software relevant to drafting tasks.
  • The ability to maintain the confidentiality of sensitive information and the ability to work both independently and in a team environment is essential as is the ability to work extended hours as required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.
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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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