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Freelance Cad Designer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Structural CAD/BIM Designer Full Time Office Dsg/Drafter 310 Raleigh, NC, Raleigh, NC, US 30+ days ago Requisition ID: 1647 Hazen and Sawyer is seeking a Structural CAD/BIM Designer for our Raleigh ...

CAD Operator IV

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

$19 - $26/hr

Transforms initial rough product designs using computer aided design (CAD) into working documents. Reviews engineering drawing and designs to ensure adherence to established specifications and ...

New

CAD Operator IV

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

$19 - $26/hr

Transforms initial rough product designs using computer aided design (CAD) into working documents. Reviews engineering drawing and designs to ensure adherence to established specifications and ...

New

Senior Cad Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Develop and prepare engineering designs and drawings from preliminary concepts, sketches, specification sheets and other data, using computer-aided design (CAD), according to client specifications.

CAD Drafter

Durham, NC · On-site

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

As a CAD Drafter, you will play a key role in bringing projects to life by preparing and modifying detailed drawings that meet project specifications and customer requirements using computer-aided ...

CAD Designer - Land Development

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

Recognized as the 2025 ENR Design Firm of the year for the Southeastern US Responsibilities ... designed to support your personal and professional needs. Work/Life: * Generous Paid Time Off

Senior Cad Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Develop and prepare engineering designs and drawings from preliminary concepts, sketches, specification sheets and other data, using computer-aided design (CAD), according to client specifications.

CAD Drafter

Durham, NC

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

As a CAD Drafter, you will play a key role in bringing projects to life by preparing and modifying detailed drawings that meet project specifications and customer requirements using computer-aided ...

Utilities CAD Operator

Rolesville, NC · Hybrid

$13.25 - $18/hr

Role summary / purpose Transforms initial rough product designs using computer aided design (CAD) into working documents. Reviews engineering drawing and designs to ensure adherence to established ...

New

Utilities CAD Operator

Morrisville, NC · Hybrid

$18.25 - $25/hr

Role summary / purpose Transforms initial rough product designs using computer aided design (CAD) into working documents. Reviews engineering drawing and designs to ensure adherence to established ...

New

Senior Cad Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Develop and prepare engineering designs and drawings from preliminary concepts, sketches, specification sheets and other data, using computer-aided design (CAD), according to client specifications.

Senior Cad Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

Develop and prepare engineering designs and drawings from preliminary concepts, sketches, specification sheets and other data, using computer-aided design (CAD), according to client specifications.

Utilities CAD Operator

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

$19 - $26/hr

Role summary / purpose Transforms initial rough product designs using computer aided design (CAD) into working documents. Reviews engineering drawing and designs to ensure adherence to established ...

New

Senior Cad Operator

Raleigh, NC

$19 - $26/hr

Develop and prepare engineering designs and drawings from preliminary concepts, sketches, specification sheets and other data, using computer-aided design (CAD), according to client specifications.

Utilities CAD Operator

Garner, NC · Hybrid

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Role summary / purpose Transforms initial rough product designs using computer aided design (CAD) into working documents. Reviews engineering drawing and designs to ensure adherence to established ...

New

CAD Designer - Land Development

Cary, NC

$25 - $34.50/hr

Recognized as the 2025 ENR Design Firm of the year for the Southeastern US Responsibilities ... designed to support your personal and professional needs. Work/Life: * Generous Paid Time Off

Utilities CAD Operator

Clayton, NC · Hybrid

$16.50 - $22.75/hr

Role summary / purpose Transforms initial rough product designs using computer aided design (CAD) into working documents. Reviews engineering drawing and designs to ensure adherence to established ...

New

CAD Drafter

Durham, NC · On-site

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

As a CAD Drafter , you will play a key role in bringing projects to life by preparing and modifying detailed drawings that meet project specifications and customer requirements using computer-aided ...

Utilities CAD Operator

Holly Springs, NC · Hybrid

$17 - $23.25/hr

Role summary / purpose Transforms initial rough product designs using computer aided design (CAD) into working documents. Reviews engineering drawing and designs to ensure adherence to established ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Freelance Cad Designer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$14

$46

$128

How much do freelance cad designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance cad designer in Raleigh, NC is $46.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.56 and $60.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance CAD designer?

A Freelance CAD Designer is an independent professional who uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings, plans, and 3D models for various industries such as architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and product design. Unlike in-house designers, freelancers work on a project-by-project basis for multiple clients, often remotely. Their work can include creating blueprints, prototypes, and design concepts based on client specifications. Freelance CAD Designers must have strong technical skills, an understanding of design principles, and the ability to meet deadlines and client requirements. They are responsible for managing their business, including client communication, billing, and project management.

What does a freelance CAD designer do?

The job of a freelance CAD designer or engineer is to help develop models, blueprints, or technical schematics using computer-aided design software, such as AutoCAD. A CAD designer may work in many fields, including architecture, civil engineering, product design, manufacturing, landscape design, and electronics. Their responsibilities are to create technical drawings or develop prototype draft concepts on behalf of a client. Although this is a contract position, a freelance CAD designer often works with an in-house project manager or specialist who communicates the design needs of the client and ensures the proper technical specifications are included for builders or manufacturers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance CAD designer?

To thrive as a Freelance CAD Designer, you need proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) principles, a solid understanding of engineering or architectural concepts, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with industry-standard CAD software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, as well as experience with file management and collaboration tools, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and time management are crucial soft skills for working independently and meeting client expectations. These skills ensure accurate designs, efficient workflows, and client satisfaction in a competitive freelance environment.

What are some common challenges freelance CAD designers face when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Freelance CAD designers often juggle several projects with overlapping deadlines, which can make time management and prioritization challenging. It’s important to establish clear communication with clients to set expectations regarding turnaround times and revisions. Additionally, freelancers must stay organized by using project management tools to track progress and deliverables. Handling different client requirements and software preferences can also require adaptability and continuous learning.

What is the difference between Freelance Cad Designer vs CAD Technician?

AspectFreelance Cad DesignerCAD Technician
CredentialsTypically requires CAD software proficiency, portfolio, sometimes certificationsOften requires technical diploma or certification in CAD software
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote or on-site, project-basedUsually employed by companies, working in office or on-site
Employer & IndustryClients across various industries, freelance basisArchitectural, engineering, manufacturing firms

Freelance Cad Designers work independently, often on diverse projects for multiple clients, requiring strong self-management. CAD Technicians are typically employed by organizations, focusing on detailed technical drawings within a team. Both roles require CAD software skills, but their work settings and employment structures differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Designer jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Cad Designer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Freelance Cad Designer jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Freelance Cad Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Cad Designer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,354 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

CAD Designer/Drafter - Water/Wastewater

MCKIM & CREED

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$60 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


McKim & Creed rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 451 rated engineering


Job description

McKim & Creed is a unique, employee-owned firm. First and foremost, we value people. This means we not only hire great talent, we’ve also created an environment where each individual can grow, flourish and apply innovative thinking. As a result, we’ve created a world-class team of professionals within a nimble organization. That’s what our clients want. That’s why we succeed. Our clients hire us because of our people.

We have an exciting opportunity to join our Water/Wastewater (W/WW) team as an CAD Designer, Water/Wastewater at our Raleigh office. If you want to work at a company that will help you become the best you can be, we’re glad you found McKim & Creed.

This person would be responsible for serving as a CAD / BIM designer in support of the Water Business Unit, preparing engineering construction documents for a variety of clients and projects. Supporting the overall vision and initiatives of the Business Unit. The ideal candidate will be experienced in utility design for municipal projects.

This position requires competent technical skills to prepare utility designs, construction plans, and permit packages.

They would be a key contributor in shaping a culture of continued innovation, supporting our core objectives of finding and solving problems with critical thinking, while contributing to the continued success of the Water Business Unit and our Clients.

YOUR DAY-DAY WILL INCLUDE:
  • Engage with project leads and assist project teams with design and drafting;
  • Support projects in the development and maintenance of their content;
  • Maintain awareness of current and future project needs;
  • Participate in the evaluation and testing of new design technology and workflows;
  • ·Stay informed of the latest industry trends in design technology content creation and management;
WHAT YOU NEED:
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent Civil AEC career experience
  • Preferred 3-5 years’ experience working within Civil infrastructure (Water/Wastewater)
  • Software Proficiencies in: Autodesk, Revit, AutoCAD, AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Ability and willingness to quickly learn new technologies.
  • Strong technical knowledge in MS Office, Bluebeam Revu and Adobe products.
  • Technological zeal and a problem-solving attitude.
  • People/Personal development, strong organizational skills, verbal and written communication skills, self-motivated, enthusiastic and flexible.
WHAT WILL MAKE YOU STAND OUT:
  • Autodesk Inventor, Solidworks and other 3D modeling software knowledge & experience
  • Autodesk BIM 360 knowledge & experience
  • Autodesk Revit Add-ins knowledge & experience
  • Autodesk Infraworks knowledge & experience
  • Familiarity with industry and local client standards
  • Share Point knowledge & experience
  • Bentley MicroStation knowledge & experience
WHAT WE OFFER:

Join a company that puts its employees first. Ranked as one of the Best Firms to Work For, here are just some of the reasons to become part of the McKim & Creed team:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): All employees are owners & benefit from profits earned
  • Competitive pay + paid holidays, bereavement and parental, medical, and military leave
  • Multiple office locations to work from: Stick close to home or travel for a change of scenery
  • Growth opportunities & training: Grow confidently in your career with our mentoring & training options
  • Professional development: Tuition reimbursement, early career professional program, online courses & more
  • Work that makes a difference: See the direct impact your work has on our communities
  • Collaborative, supportive team: People to help you solve problems, cheer successes & encourage you along the way
WATCH THIS VIDEO TO LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT IT’S LIKE TO BE A PART OF OUR TEAM!

We have an exciting opportunity to join our team. If you want to work at a company that will help improve the future of the communities where we live work and play, we're glad you found McKim & Creed.

McKim & Creed is an Equal Opportunity and Affiliated Action Employer, and VEVRAA Federal Contractor and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status and maintains a Drug Free Workplace.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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