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Entry Level Draftsman Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Drafter II

San Diego, CA · On-site

$48K - $71K/yr

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 ...

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 ...

347 Group, Inc.

Be Seen First

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

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Entry Level Draftsman information

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$14

$26

$42

How much do entry level draftsman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level draftsman in California is $26.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $30.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Draftsman vs Junior Architect?

AspectEntry Level DraftsmanJunior Architect
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree, basic CAD skillsBachelor's degree in architecture, some internships
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, construction companies, architectural departmentsArchitectural firms, design studios, construction projects
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in architecture and engineering sectorsUsed in architecture and design industries, often as a stepping stone

Entry Level Draftsmen typically have basic technical skills and assist in creating drawings under supervision, while Junior Architects have more advanced education and participate in design development. Both roles work in similar environments, but Junior Architects often take on more responsibility and client interaction as they gain experience.

Are drafters still in demand?

Entry-level drafters are still in demand in industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, especially those proficient in CAD software like AutoCAD or Revit. Job opportunities depend on regional construction activity and infrastructure projects, with demand often linked to economic growth and technological advancements in design processes.

What are entry level draftsmen?

Entry level draftsmen are professionals who create technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, and engineering projects. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced draftsmen or engineers and use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce detailed diagrams based on specifications. Their responsibilities may include revising drawings, preparing layouts, and ensuring that plans comply with industry standards. Entry level draftsmen often have an associate degree or a certificate in drafting and are building foundational skills in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level draftsmen, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level draftsmen often encounter challenges such as adapting to new drafting software, interpreting complex design specifications, and ensuring accuracy in technical drawings under tight deadlines. To overcome these challenges, it's important to seek feedback from senior team members, participate in hands-on training sessions, and consistently review project requirements before starting each task. Developing strong communication skills and asking clarifying questions can also help ensure your work aligns with engineers’ or architects’ expectations.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Draftsman, you need fundamental knowledge of drafting techniques, attention to detail, and a relevant associate degree or technical certification. Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks and familiarity with industry standards are typically required. Strong communication, organization, and the ability to follow instructions help set candidates apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for producing precise technical drawings that support engineers and architects in delivering accurate project plans.

Will drafters be replaced by AI?

Entry level draftsmen perform technical drawing and design tasks that require understanding of engineering and architectural principles. While AI tools can assist with drafting and automate repetitive tasks, human oversight and expertise remain essential for complex design decisions and accuracy. Therefore, AI is more likely to augment rather than fully replace draftsmen in the near future.

How to become a CAD drafter with no experience?

To become an entry-level CAD draftsman with no experience, start by learning CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks through online tutorials or courses. Obtain relevant certifications or training programs, and build a portfolio of practice drawings to demonstrate your skills to potential employers.

What does an entry-level drafter do?

An entry-level draftsman creates technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, or engineering projects. They use computer-aided design (CAD) software to develop detailed schematics and must follow specifications and standards. This role often involves collaborating with engineers and architects and may require basic knowledge of drafting tools and industry codes.
What are the most commonly searched types of Draftsman jobs in California? The most popular types of Draftsman jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Draftsman jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Draftsman job openings:
Entry Level Draftsman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Draftsman job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 31% Locum Tenens, 3% Internship, 22% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 22% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,130 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Drafter II

General Atomics

San Diego, CA • On-site

$48K - $71K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 71 rated aerospace companies

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.

What General Atomics employees say

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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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