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Entry Level Solidworks Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

StenTech, Inc

JUNIOR CAM PROGRAMMER I

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

This position is ideal for individuals with machining experience, entry-level CAM programming ... Fusion 360 * SolidWorks * Blueprint reading and GD&T * CNC machining operations and vertical ...

All JobsSolidworks JobsEntry Level Solidworks JobsEntry Level Solidworks Jobs in Portland, OR

Entry Level Solidworks information

See Portland, OR salary details

$16

$23

$30

How much do entry level solidworks jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level solidworks in Portland, OR is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $26.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money can you make with entry level Solidworks?

Entry-level SolidWorks drafters or designers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on location, industry, and experience. Developing proficiency in CAD skills and obtaining certifications can improve earning potential for this role.

What are entry level SolidWorks jobs?

Entry-level jobs that use SolidWorks software focus on design and modeling using this CAD software. In this role, you may use this software for drafting a product design, testing ideas, and looking for flaws within existing product designs. Companies use SolidWorks for many different purposes, but entry-level jobs that specialize in using this software often include working under more experienced drafters or engineers. Other details of this job depend on the employer, and your job may not focus exclusively on using SolidWorks. As an entry-level employee, you may also spend time learning to use SolidWorks and other company software rather than helping develop products.

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

As an entry-level SolidWorks professional, you will typically assist with creating and modifying 2D and 3D CAD models, updating engineering drawings, and supporting the design team with documentation. Common tasks include preparing parts and assembly models, collaborating with engineers to resolve design issues, and ensuring that drawings meet company standards. You may also participate in design reviews and occasionally help with prototypes or testing. This role offers hands-on exposure to the product development process and is a great foundation for advancing into more specialized engineering or design positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level SolidWorks designer?

To thrive as an Entry Level SolidWorks Designer, you need foundational knowledge of mechanical design principles, a degree or coursework in engineering or drafting, and proficiency in SolidWorks CAD software. Experience with technical drawing standards, 3D modeling, and familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems are also valuable. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These skills are crucial for accurately translating concepts into manufacturable designs, collaborating with teams, and ensuring project success.

What is the difference between Entry Level Solidworks vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectEntry Level SolidworksMechanical Drafter
Required SkillsBasic Solidworks proficiency, CAD modeling, design documentationDrafting skills, CAD software knowledge, technical drawing
CertificationsOptional Solidworks certificationsDrafting certifications or technical diplomas often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesEngineering departments, manufacturing plants, architectural firms
Industry UsageProduct design, mechanical engineering, manufacturingConstruction, manufacturing, engineering projects

Entry Level Solidworks roles focus on creating 3D models and technical drawings using Solidworks software, often requiring basic CAD skills and certifications. Mechanical Drafters also produce technical drawings but may use a broader range of drafting tools and software. Both roles are common in engineering and manufacturing industries, but Entry Level Solidworks positions emphasize 3D modeling expertise, while Mechanical Drafters focus on detailed technical drawings.

Is entry level SolidWorks in demand?

Entry level SolidWorks positions are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, engineering, and product design, where 3D CAD modeling skills are essential. Employers seek candidates with basic proficiency in SolidWorks, often requiring certifications or coursework, and the demand is expected to grow with increased reliance on digital design tools.
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Entry Level Solidworks jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Solidworks job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 17% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,582 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

JUNIOR CAM PROGRAMMER I

StenTech, Inc

Hillsboro, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Description:

StenTech's Pentagon location in Hillsboro, Oregon is seeking a motivated Junior CAM Programmer to join our manufacturing team. This position is ideal for individuals with machining experience, entry-level CAM programming experience, manufacturing education, or a combination of these backgrounds who are eager to continue developing their technical and manufacturing knowledge.


Working alongside experienced programmers and machinists, the Junior CAM Programmer will create and modify CNC programs for vertical machining centers, support production activities, and assist with developing efficient and repeatable machining processes.

This position offers excellent opportunities for professional growth in advanced machining strategies, multi-axis programming, tooling optimization, and manufacturing engineering.


Benefits:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
Requirements:

and Primary Responsibilities

Experience with one or more of the following is preferred:

  • Create and modify CNC programs utilizing GibbsCAM.
  • Program vertical 3-axis machining centers.
  • Interpret engineering drawings and CAD models.
  • Develop setup documentation.
  • Assist with machining strategy development.
  • Support production during program prove-out.
  • Troubleshoot programming issues with machinists.
  • Edit existing production programs.
  • Assist with tooling selection.
  • Participate in continuous improvement projects.
  • Maintain programming documentation.
  • Continue developing machining and programming skills


Preferred Qualifications

Experience with one or more of the following is preferred:

  • GibbsCAM
  • Mastercam
  • Fusion 360
  • SolidWorks
  • Blueprint reading and GD&T
  • CNC machining operations and vertical machining centers
  • Basic tooling selection
  • Setup documentation

Minimum Qualifications

Candidates should possess one or more of the following:

  • CNC machining experience
  • CAM programming experience
  • Manufacturing Technology education
  • Mechanical Engineering Technology education
  • Tool & Die background
  • CNC setup experience
  • Apprenticeship in machining
  • Equivalent combination of education and manufacturing experience

What We Are Looking For

We're looking for someone who is eager to learn, enjoys solving technical challenges, and takes pride in producing quality work. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

  • Strong mechanical aptitude and technical curiosity
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • A positive attitude and willingness to learn
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills
  • The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Strong organizational and time management skills
  • Adaptability in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
  • Accountability, dependability, and a strong work ethic
  • A commitment to continuous improvement


Career Growth

This position is designed for individuals who want to build a long-term career in manufacturing.

As you grow in this role, you'll have opportunities to develop skills in:

  • Advanced machining strategies
  • Multi-axis programming
  • Tooling optimization
  • Fixture development
  • Manufacturing process engineering
  • Lean Manufacturing
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Manufacturing problem solving
  • Production optimization


What Success Looks Like within your first year, you'll work toward:

  • Independently programming standard production work
  • Developing efficient machining strategies
  • Producing accurate setup documentation
  • Supporting production with increasing independence
  • Expanding your technical knowledge and CNC programming skills
  • Contributing ideas that improve manufacturing efficiency and process optimization

Why Join Our Team

Our programming department values technical curiosity, collaboration, and continuous learning. We encourage employees to contribute ideas, explore new manufacturing technologies, and grow their careers while helping build efficient, repeatable manufacturing processes.


Whether you're beginning your CAM programming career or looking to expand your manufacturing knowledge, you'll have the opportunity to learn alongside experienced professionals and grow with a team committed to quality, innovation, and operational excellence.