1

Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer Jobs in Poway, CA

CAD Designer

CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

ATA is seeking a CAD designer with a strong interest in designing and supporting fabrication and testing activities for all types of mechanical hardware across a variety of industries, including ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

Jamul, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

Loftsperson/CAD Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$40K - $64K/yr

Right now, we are seeking a Loftsperson/CAD Designer who is ready to take their career to the next level. This is a great opportunity to work along-side experienced professionals who are ready to ...

As a Sr Loftsperson/CAD Designer, you will: * Assists with designing components or portions of systems and modifies existing designs to develop or improve products and facilitate operations.

New

As a Sr Loftsperson/CAD Designer, you will: * Assists with designing components or portions of systems and modifies existing designs to develop or improve products and facilitate operations.

New

Sr Loftsperson/CAD Designer

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$66K - $105K/yr

As a Sr Loftsperson/CAD Designer, you will: * Assists with designing components or portions of systems and modifies existing designs to develop or improve products and facilitate operations.

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer information

See Poway, CA salary details

$15

$48

$135

How much do freelance computer aided design designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance computer aided design designer in Poway, CA is $48.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.86 and $63.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance computer aided design designer?

A Freelance Computer Aided Design (CAD) Designer is an independent professional who uses specialized software to create technical drawings, blueprints, 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 different clients, offering flexibility and a broad range of experience. Their work often includes interpreting client requirements, creating detailed designs, and collaborating remotely with engineers or architects to bring concepts to life. Freelance CAD Designers must be proficient in CAD software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, and have strong technical and communication skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance computer aided design designer?

To thrive as a Freelance Computer Aided Design (CAD) Designer, you need a solid understanding of engineering or architectural principles, proficiency in CAD software, and typically a degree or certification in design or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is crucial, along with familiarity with file management and rendering systems. Strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help you effectively collaborate with clients and deliver projects on schedule. These competencies ensure high-quality, accurate designs and reliable service, which are vital for client satisfaction and business growth.

How do freelance computer aided design designers typically manage client expectations and project timelines?

Freelance CAD Designers often juggle multiple projects for various clients, so clear communication and strong organizational skills are essential. They usually set realistic timelines by breaking down the design process into phases and providing clients with regular updates on progress. Managing expectations often involves establishing detailed project scopes at the outset, clarifying revision limits, and using project management tools to track deadlines. This approach helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures smooth collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer vs CAD Technician?

AspectFreelance Computer Aided Design DesignerCAD Technician
CredentialsTypically requires CAD software proficiency, portfolio, sometimes certificationsOften requires technical diploma or certification in CAD software
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote or client-site work, project-basedUsually employed by companies, working in office or on-site
Industry UsageFreelance, consulting, architecture, engineering, product designConstruction, manufacturing, engineering firms
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance CAD services or project-based workSeeking in-house or employed CAD support roles

Freelance Computer Aided Design Designers typically work independently on various projects, requiring strong software skills and a portfolio. CAD Technicians are usually employed by organizations, focusing on technical drafting and support within specific industries. Both roles require CAD proficiency but differ in employment status and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Aided Design Designer jobs in Poway, CA?

The most popular types of Computer Aided Design Designer jobs in Poway, CA are:

What cities near Poway, CA are hiring for Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer jobs?

Cities near Poway, CA with the most Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer job openings:

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

ATA is seeking a CAD designer with a strong interest in designing and supporting fabrication and testing activities for all types of mechanical hardware across a variety of industries, including themed entertainment, aerospace and defense, and industrial machinery. The successful candidate will be able to quickly adapt to new projects, support multiple concurrent projects, collaborate frequently with small and medium-sized engineering teams, and be open to occasional travel to customer sites. Professional experience working with SolidWorks, NX, or a similar CAD program (modeling and drafting) is essential. This is a full-time position (40 hours per week with benefits and occasional overtime). ATA is headquartered in San Diego, California, but serves clients globally.
LOCATIONS:
San Diego
13290 Evening Creek Drive South
San Diego, California 92128
Colorado
Colorado - 1597 Cole Boulevard, Ste 375,
Lakewood, Colorado 80401
Alabama
308 Voyager Way NW, Suite 102,
Huntsville, Alabama 35806
Washington DC
13665 Dulles Technology Drive, Suite 350,
Herndon, Virginia 20171
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Develop 3D CAD models and production-ready drawings, in collaboration with engineering team, to support design, documentation, fabrication, assembly, and other product development activities.
  • Produce and review production-ready assembly and detail drawings, applying annotations, notes, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) elements consistent with the ASME Y14.5 standard.
  • Produce other design documentation such as parts lists, schematics, and design review materials.
  • Apply basic design principles to identify, size, and select commercial off-the-shelf mechanical components for engineering designs.
  • Maintain and apply fundamental knowledge of manufacturing processes for commonly used engineering materials.
  • Apply basic design principles in developing and checking structural and mechanical designs, including connections.
  • Interface with suppliers to support the procurement of prototype or production components and assemblies.
  • Occasionally support fabrication and functional testing of mechanical systems.

Requirements:
The ideal candidate would have all of the following skills.
  • Must be a US Person.
  • Computer-Aided Drafting and Design degree (A.S.) or similar; alternatively, three or more years of mechanical design and/or fabrication and assembly experience.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to customer sites (within and outside of California).
  • Substantial professional experience with solid design (3D modeling) and computer-aided drafting (2D). Recent experience with SolidWorks or Siemens NX (or both) is a significant advantage. Experience with other 3D or 2D CAD packages, such as Creo, Inventor, and AutoCAD, will be considered. Experience with managing large assemblies in a CAD environment is a plus.
  • Ability to make drawings consistent with the ASME Y14.5 GD&T standards.
  • Ability to select and size appropriate hardware from commercial off-the-shelf inventory for mechanical designs.
  • Excellent English verbal and written communication skills enabling preparation of clear and precise documentation.
  • Strong technical skills (engineering software, mechanical aptitude, office and productivity software).
  • Strong interpersonal skills and experience working in technical teams.
  • Ability to work productively without close supervision.
  • Experience designing flight hardware including the following elements is a plus: mechanisms, flexures, honeycomb panels, composites, glass, optical components, and mechanical fasteners.
  • Experience designing ground-based mechanical equipment and heavy structures (bolted construction and/or welded) is a plus.
  • Experience designing mechatronic and robotic systems is a plus.
  • Experience with machine tools (mill, lathe, drill press, etc.) is a plus.

Relocation assistance is not available for this position.
Salary Range:
  • Early Career Professional: $60,000-$90,000 per year
HOW TO APPLY
We appreciate your interest in ATA Engineering and request that you submit the following materials if you are qualified and wish to join our team of employee-owners at ATA Engineering:
  • A current résumé or CV.
  • A copy of your up-to-date college transcripts. You may email them, or request that an official transcript be sent directly to the address below. If your transcript contains identifying information such as Social Security Number and/or date of birth, please delete this information prior to submitting your transcripts.
  • A statement confirming that you meet the definition of a US person as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62.

Please note: we prefer electronic copies of all documents, but you may also mail them to the address below if necessary. Many of our contracts require access to government, defense, and classified information. We cannot consider your application unless you are a US Person. Unless you specifically state otherwise in your cover letter or email, you will be considered for all current openings at all ATA locations. Once we have reviewed your qualifications, you will be contacted by email regarding the status of your application.

ATA Engineering logo

About ATA Engineering

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

2000