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Structural Cad Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About the Role We are seeking a CAD Designer to bridge the gap between initial structural concepts and production-ready engineering releases. In this role, you will focus heavily on CAD execution ...

CAD Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a CAD Designer to bridge the gap between initial structural concepts and production-ready engineering releases. In this role, you will focus heavily on CAD execution ...

About the Role We are seeking a CAD Designer to bridge the gap between initial structural concepts and production-ready engineering releases. In this role, you will focus heavily on CAD execution ...

Be Seen First

CAD Designer

Cambridge, OH · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

CAD Designer Our company is growing quickly and we're hiring! We are currently in need of an experienced and skilled CAD Designer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for ...

CAD Designer Pay Details: The annual base salary range for this position in California is $85,000 ... Strong understanding of architectural drafting, building codes, and structural elements

CAD Designer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Job Title: CAD Designer Pay Details: The annual base salary range for this position in California ... Strong understanding of architectural drafting, building codes, and structural elements

CAD Designer Pay Details: The annual base salary range for this position in California is $85,000 ... Strong understanding of architectural drafting, building codes, and structural elements

CAD Designer

Plymouth, IN

$24.50 - $33.75/hr

The CAD Designer partners closely with engineering, drafting, manufacturing, and product ... Familiarity with sheet metal fabrication, welding, and structural steel manufacturing processes

CAD Designer Pay Details: The annual base salary range for this position in California is $85,000 ... Strong understanding of architectural drafting, building codes, and structural elements

CAD Designer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

The CAD Designer plays a key role in providing detailed drawings and technical schematics to ... Strong understanding of architectural drafting, building codes, and structural elements

CAD Designer

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$27 - $31/hr

The CAD Designer III plays a critical role in the development and refinement of detailed technical drawings and models that support engineering and manufacturing processes. This position is ...

CAD Designer

Plymouth, IN · On-site

$24.50 - $33.75/hr

The CAD Designer partners closely with engineering, drafting, manufacturing, and product ... Familiarity with sheet metal fabrication, welding, and structural steel manufacturing processes

Be Seen First

CAD Designer

Cambridge, OH · On-site

$40K - $45K/yr

CAD Designer Our company is growing quickly and we're hiring! We are currently in need of an experienced and skilled CAD Designer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for ...

CAD Designer

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

The CAD Designer plays a key role in providing detailed drawings and technical schematics to ... Strong understanding of architectural drafting, building codes, and structural elements

CAD Designer Pay Details: The annual base salary range for this position in California is $85,000 ... Strong understanding of architectural drafting, building codes, and structural elements

... CAD Designer to join its expanding engineering team in Carnegie, PA. This opportunity is ideal for ... Coordinate with structural engineers and project managers throughout project execution * Maintain ...

CAD Designer

Surprise, AZ · On-site

$26.25 - $36/hr

Job Title: CAD Designer Location: Surprise Arizona Company: Interstate Assembly Systems Position ... Solid expertise in sheet metal design. * Familiarity with weldments and structural steel.

CAD Designer

Newark, DE · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

The CAD Designer will play a key role in supporting the engineering and design teams by producing ... structural details * Develop and revise construction documents and technical plan sets with ...

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Structural Cad Designer information

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How much do structural cad designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural cad designer in the United States is $41.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $51.68 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 is a structural CAD designer?

A structural CAD designer creates detailed technical drawings and models of building structures using computer-aided design (CAD) software. They work closely with engineers and architects to develop accurate plans, often using tools like AutoCAD or Revit, and ensure designs meet safety and code requirements.

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.

Is CAD a lot of math?

As a Structural CAD Designer, math skills are important for accurately creating and interpreting technical drawings, especially involving measurements, geometry, and structural calculations. Proficiency in basic math and understanding of engineering principles help ensure precise designs and effective communication with engineers and construction teams.

How much does a CAD designer get paid?

A Structural CAD Designer typically earns between $50,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers with advanced skills and software proficiency can earn higher salaries.

What is the highest paying job in structural engineering?

The highest paying roles in structural engineering typically include senior-level positions such as Structural Engineering Managers, Principal Engineers, or Lead Structural Engineers, especially those working in large firms or specialized industries like aerospace or nuclear power. These roles often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and expertise in design software like AutoCAD or Revit, with salaries reflecting their leadership and technical responsibilities.

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.

More about Structural Cad Designer jobs
What states have the most Structural Cad Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Structural Cad Designer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Structural Cad Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,632 per year, or $41.6 per hour.

CAD Designer

Panthalassa

Portland, OR

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

About the Company

Panthalassa is a renewable energy and ocean technology company operating as a public benefit corporation. We are committed to rapidly developing and deploying technologies that will ensure a sustainable future for Earth by unlocking the vast energy potential of its oceans. Our focus is on capturing civilizational levels of ultra-low-cost renewable energy for applications including computing and affordable renewable fuels delivered to shore.

About the Role

We are seeking a CAD Designer to bridge the gap between initial structural concepts and production-ready engineering releases. In this role, you will focus heavily on CAD execution, assembly management, and technical documentation for our core technology, the "Node"—a device designed to generate energy and survive for decades in the world's harshest offshore environments.

You will own the "last-mile" engineering definition that turns structural concepts into NX models, drawings, and releases that the shop can build without guessing. You'll work at the intersection of design, analysis, and fabrication—making clean assemblies, clear drawings, and a PLM structure that matches how we actually build and service hardware.

Our staff have worked at organizations such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, Stoke, Boeing, Virgin Orbit, Virgin Galactic, Google, Amazon, Microsoft, New Relic, Bridgewater, Raytheon, Disney Imagineering, and the US Army and Air Force, as well as research universities, startups, and small companies across a range of industries.

We are backed by leading venture capital firms, private investors, philanthropic investors, and endowments. We strive to be the best engineering team on the planet. If you are an excellent engineer and technical leader, regardless of your background, we want you to apply.

Key Responsibilities
  • NX Modeling & Assembly: Develop and maintain expert-level 3D CAD component models and large-scale mechanical assemblies within Siemens NX.
  • Drawing & Detailing: Lead the creation of complex fabrication and assembly drawings, ensuring absolute clarity, accuracy, and technical rigor.
  • Structural Documentation: Personally own the detailed documentation and drafting for large-scale, safety-critical welded steel structures and subassemblies.
  • PLM & Lifecycle Management: Integrate all design data tightly within Siemens Teamcenter PLM to support manufacturing accuracy and streamlined engineering release processes.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner closely with structural analysts, manufacturing teams, and shop floor technicians to optimize designs for manufacturability and marine service.
  • Release Ownership: Drive clean engineering releases (ECR/ECO or equivalent), maintain configuration discipline, and keep definition aligned with what's being built.
  • Standards & Libraries: Help establish and maintain drawing/modeling standards, templates, and common details so the next release is faster and more consistent than the last.
Required Qualifications
  • Education/Experience: Associates Degree, Bachelor's Degree, or 5+ years relevant professional CAD experience in a similarly complex industry
  • CAD Expertise: Strong professional experience in 3D CAD modeling and drafting
  • Technical Standards: Knowledge of relevant engineering standards such as ASME Y14.100.
  • Structural Experience: Proven track record in the design detailing and documentation of metallic structures, load paths, and large-scale welded assemblies.
  • Professional Mindset: High attention to detail with a meticulous approach to technical documentation, alongside the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment.
Desired Attributes
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related technical field.
  • Extensive CAD experience on Siemens NX and Teamcenter PLM.
  • Ability to apply understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and tolerance stack-up analysis to ensure components are practical and buildable.
  • Familiarity with marine/offshore engineering fundamentals or corrosion-conscious detailing for seawater service.
  • Exposure to relevant industrial codes and standards (e.g., AWS D1.1, DNV, ABS, or ASME BPVC).
  • Experience releasing welded fabrication packages that include weld symbols, inspection callouts, and clear acceptance criteria.
  • Experience partnering directly with fab shops (internal or external) and iterating drawings based on build feedback.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Cash compensation of $90,000 – $140,000.
  • Equity in the company. We're all owners and if we're successful, this equity should be far and away the most valuable component of your compensation.
  • A benefits package that helps you take care of yourself and your family, including:
      • Flexible paid time off
      • Health insurance (the company pays 100% of gold level PPO plan for full time employees, their partners, and dependents)
      • Dental insurance (the company pays 100% for full time employees and 100% for their partners and dependents)
      • Vision insurance (the company pays 100% for full time employees, their partners, and dependents)
      • Disability insurance (the company pays 100% for a policy to provide long term financial support if you become disabled)
      • Ability to contribute to tax-advantaged accounts, including 401(k), health FSA, and dependent care FS
  • Relocation assistance to facilitate your move to Portland (if needed).

Location

Our offices, lab and shop, are located in Portland, Oregon.