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Structural Cad Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ATA Engineering, Inc

CAD Designer

CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Apply basic design principles in developing and checking structural and mechanical designs ... Computer-Aided Drafting and Design degree (A.S.) or similar; alternatively, three or more years of ...

Essel

CAD Designer

Whittier, CA · On-site

$28.50 - $39.50/hr

Develop intricate part and assembly models using SolidWorks 3D CAD * Design components to meet ... Structural analysis familiarity using SolidWorks Simulation FEA * Understanding of Geometric ...

Essel

CAD Designer

Whittier, CA

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Develop intricate part and assembly models using SolidWorks 3D CAD * Design components to meet ... Structural analysis familiarity using SolidWorks Simulation FEA * Understanding of Geometric ...

Essel

CAD Designer

Whittier, CA · On-site

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Develop intricate part and assembly models using SolidWorks 3D CAD * Design components to meet ... Structural analysis familiarity using SolidWorks Simulation FEA * Understanding of Geometric ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

CAD Designer

Concord, CA · On-site

$76K/yr

As a CAD Designer, you will prepare layout drawings and schematic diagrams of temporary works plans under the direction of the Construction Engineering Group. Your role will be crucial in ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

CAD Designer

Concord, CA · On-site

$76K/yr

As a CAD Designer, you will prepare layout drawings and schematic diagrams of temporary works plans under the direction of the Construction Engineering Group. Your role will be crucial in ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

CAD Designer

Concord, CA

$74K - $76K/yr

As a CAD Designer, you will prepare layout drawings and schematic diagrams of temporary works plans under the direction of the Construction Engineering Group. Your role will be crucial in ...

Flatiron Construction Corp

CAD Designer

Concord, CA · On-site

$74K - $76K/yr

As a CAD Designer, you will prepare layout drawings and schematic diagrams of temporary works plans under the direction of the Construction Engineering Group. Your role will be crucial in ...

GFT.

Revit/CAD Designer

Roseville, CA · Hybrid

$28.25 - $39/hr

GFT is seeking a Revit/ CAD Designer - Geotechnical Dams & Hydraulics to join our Geotechnical Dams ... Interpret and develop site plans, profiles, sections, details, structural layouts, schematics, and ...

efcoforms

CAD Designer

Fresno, CA

$26.75 - $37/hr

Purpose The CAD Designer role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role also supports project ...

GFT.

Revit/CAD Designer

Oakland, CA · Hybrid

$31 - $42.75/hr

GFT is seeking a Revit/ CAD Designer - Geotechnical Dams & Hydraulics to join our Geotechnical Dams ... Interpret and develop site plans, profiles, sections, details, structural layouts, schematics, and ...

Hazen and Sawyer

Structural CAD/BIM Designer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Hazen and Sawyer is seeking a CAD/BIM Designer to work alongside project managers and engineers to produce structural BIM (Revit) models, families, and contract drawings for the structural discipline.

EVERIDGE MASTER

CAD Designer

Rancho Cucamonga, CA · On-site

$25 - $33/hr

The CAD Designer is responsible for providing production drafting, design support and other related documentation. The primary role includes hands on drafting support (2-D & 3-D), coordinating ...

EVERIDGE

CAD Designer

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$25 - $33/hr

The CAD Designer is responsible for providing production drafting, design support and other related documentation. The primary role includes hands on drafting support (2-D & 3-D), coordinating ...

Aequor

CAD Designer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$29.50 - $40.75/hr

Please visit www.aequor.com for additional information The CAD designer will be required to rely on experience and training to accomplish goals with minimal supervision. Create/update AutoCAD ...

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All JobsStructural Cad Designer JobsStructural Cad Designer Jobs in California

Structural Cad Designer information

See California salary details

$20

$41

$64

How much do structural cad designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural cad designer in California is $41.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.82 and $51.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Structural CAD Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Structural CAD Designer, you need strong drafting skills, knowledge of structural engineering principles, and typically an associate degree in drafting or engineering technology. Proficiency in computer-aided design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM systems is essential, along with familiarity with relevant building codes. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate structural drawings, efficient collaboration with engineers and architects, and the successful execution of construction projects.

What are Structural CAD Designers?

Structural CAD Designers are professionals who use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to create detailed drawings and plans for buildings, bridges, and other structures. They work closely with structural engineers and architects to translate conceptual designs into technical blueprints that guide construction. Their responsibilities include drafting, revising, and annotating structural layouts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with industry standards. Structural CAD Designers play a crucial role in ensuring that structures are safe, functional, and built according to specifications.

What are some typical challenges faced by Structural CAD Designers when working on multidisciplinary engineering projects?

Structural CAD Designers often collaborate with architects, engineers, and other design professionals, which can lead to challenges in coordinating design changes, maintaining drawing accuracy, and ensuring that all disciplines are working from the most current plans. Managing version control and integrating feedback from multiple stakeholders requires strong communication and organizational skills. Additionally, adapting to different CAD standards and software used by collaborators is common, making flexibility and continuous learning important in this role.

What is the difference between Structural Cad Designer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectStructural Cad DesignerStructural Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or associate degree in CAD or draftingRequires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and licensure
Work EnvironmentDesign drafting in architectural or engineering firms, primarily using CAD softwareDesign, analysis, and project management in engineering firms or construction projects
ResponsibilitiesCreating detailed CAD drawings and models based on engineers' specificationsDesigning, analyzing, and overseeing structural systems for safety and compliance

The main difference is that Structural Cad Designers focus on creating detailed CAD drawings based on engineers' plans, while Structural Engineers are responsible for designing, analyzing, and ensuring the safety of structural systems. Both roles often collaborate closely, but their core responsibilities and required credentials differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Structural Cad Designer jobs in California? For Structural Cad Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Cad Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Cad Designer jobs in California are:
Structural Cad Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Cad Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,497 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

CAD Designer

ATA Engineering, Inc

CA • On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 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.
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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

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