Entrylevel Computer Aided Design Designer Jobs in Oakland, CA

At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For over 60 years, we have dedicated ourselves to innovative, sustainable engineering that shapes the built environment and tackles complex infrastructure challenges. Our team culture emphasizes balance, growth, and well-being, supporting each member's professional journey with flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work-life integration.

With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF's decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more at www.kpff.com.

We are looking for motivated Civil CAD Designers with AutoCAD Civil 3D experience, ideally in site development, to join our NorCal Civil team in San Francisco. In this role, you will contribute to the production of high-quality civil engineering plans, working closely with engineers, drafters, surveyors, and project managers. Your expertise will be essential in preparing accurate, well-presented drawings while collaborating on a variety of civil design projects.

At KPFF, we are committed to fostering professional growth. As part of our team, you'll receive ongoing training and development to advance your skills and take on new responsibilities as your career progresses.

We're seeking individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact through their work and in their community. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication abilities are essential for collaborating with both internal teams and clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and modify civil engineering drawings using AutoCAD Civil 3D, including grading plans, drainage plans, and utility layouts.
• Collaborate with engineers and other team members to develop comprehensive site development, roadway infrastructure, and stormwater management plans.
• Contribute to sustainable design efforts and ensure ADA code compliance in all projects.
• Prepare technical specifications and support the development of other project documentation.
• Review and refine drawings for clarity, accuracy, and visual presentation.

Typical Scope of Work Includes

• Site development and grading plans
• Drainage and stormwater quality design
• Roadway and utility infrastructure design
• Sustainable and green design solutions
• ADA compliance assessments
• Technical specification preparation

• Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated professional CAD experience, with specific emphasis in site development
• Demonstrated proficiency in professional communication and proven ability to operate effectively within collaborative team environments
• Comprehensive understanding of industry-standard CAD protocols and civil engineering documentation
• Demonstrated expertise in strategic time management with proven capability to handle multiple concurrent priorities
• Associate's Degree or professional certification in Civil Design Technology, Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD), or related technical field
• Extensive working knowledge of industry-standard civil engineering design software applications, including AutoCAD, Civil3D, Microsoft Office Suite, and Bluebeam
• Demonstrated commitment to professional development through mentoring entry-level engineers, drafters, and interns in AutoCAD applications
• Advanced proficiency in creating and modifying AutoCAD styles and LISP routines is highly advantageous

Compensation

The base salary for this role is competitive, with a range of $55,000 - $90,000, determined by experience, education, and skills. KPFF also offers performance-based bonuses to recognize outstanding contributions. Additional details about the full compensation package will be provided during the interview process.

Culture and Benefits
At KPFF, we offer a rewarding career path that emphasizes autonomy, innovation, and professional development. Our culture prioritizes employee ownership, teamwork, and shared values, creating an environment where contributions are celebrated, and career growth is encouraged. We aren't just colleagues; we're a community dedicated to collaborative innovation, providing you the platform to make a lasting impact on meaningful projects.

KPFF Employee Benefits

• Medical Plan Options: Choice of Traditional PPO or HDHP with HSA, covering preventive care and prescriptions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Dental & Vision: Full preventive care, plus coverage for major dental services and vision allowances.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for personal, family, and work challenges.
• Life & AD&D Insurance: Company-provided life insurance equal to one year's salary, plus AD&D.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: KPFF contributes 3% of salary, with no match needed. 
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term coverage at 60% income, fully covered by KPFF.
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, two floating holidays, and paid company holidays.
• Paid Family Leave: Six weeks at 60% pay, with options to use PTO for full income.

KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.