Civil Drafter Jobs in California
Civil drafter jobs in California are in strong demand, concentrated in infrastructure, water management, land development, and transportation engineering, with openings at every level from entry-level CAD technician through senior drafter. The busiest hiring markets are Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Diego, where firms like WSP, AECOM, and Kleinfelder maintain deep California footprints and hire civil drafters on a recurring basis. The most sought-after specialties in California are grading and site plans, roadway design, and utility corridor drafting. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Civil Drafter JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 18+ Civil Drafter jobs
Description
Your role at GEI. GEI is seeking a Civil Drafter/Designer to join our growing design practice. This position will be located in our Rancho Cordova, California office.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
- This position will involve the preparation of engineering design drawings and figures for a variety of project types including, but not limited to, dams, levees, hydraulic structures, canals, pump stations, building foundations, civil site design, water supply systems, and retaining walls;
- The successful candidate will possess ability in the design and layout of grading plans, heavy civil projects, and roadways, as well as detailing of concrete, steel, and timber structures;
- Candidate should possess ability to implement a variety of CAD standards based on project and client needs.
Minimum Qualifications
- A.S. Degree in Engineering Technology, Drafting, or related field.
- 3+ years of computer-aided design and drafting experience.
- Knowledge of drafting and design with AutoCAD Civil3D with experience creating and modifying alignments, profiles, sections, plan views, surfaces, grading groups, corridors, point data, blocks, label styles, data shortcuts, and details.
- Ability to generate quantity take-offs using AutoCAD.
- Experience with AutoCAD Civil3D 2020 or higher is required; customization and programming experience with AutoCAD is preferred.
- Ability to create subassemblies using Subassembly Composer a plus.
- Knowledge of pipe networks and pressure networks is a plus.
- Structural 3D drafting and design experience (Revit, BIM software) a plus.
- Experience with Microsoft Office applications, specifically Excel.
- Candidates must have good oral and written communication skills, strong work ethic, and be able to work in a team environment.
We are GEI.
Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow. We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges. With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry.
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more. Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs – we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded – which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion.
GEI’s Total Rewards Package Includes
- Market-Competitive Compensation, including Eligibility for an Annual Performance Bonus
- Pay Range For This Position: $60,000.00-$80,000.00/year
- Comprehensive Benefits Program, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and More
- Well-Being Program and Paid Parental Leave
- Commuter Benefits
- Hybrid Work Schedules and Cell Phone Stipends
- GEI University (GEIU) with Continuing Education Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
- Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
- Support and Financial Rewards for Publication Awards, Professional Dues, and Professional Licenses
- Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off Program
- Rewards and Recognition
- GEI-Funded Profit Sharing and 401(k)
- Opportunity to be an Owner and Shareholder
- A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- And More…
Physical Requirements
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Functional Demands
Sedentary X Light Medium
Other
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row)
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional (0-35% of day)
Frequent (33-66% of day)
Continuous (67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting X
Standing X
Walking X
Climbing X
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds) X
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds) X
Carrying objects X
Push/pull X
Twisting X
Bending X
Reaching forward X
Reaching overhead X
Squat/kneel/crawl X
Wrist position deviation X
Pinching/fine motor skills X
Keyboard use/repetitive motion X
Taste or smell (taste=never) X
Talk or hear X
Sensory Requirements
Minimal
Moderate
Accurate
Not Applicable
Depth perception X
Hearing X
Environment Requirements
Occupational Exposure Risk Potential
Reasonably Anticipated
Not Anticipated
Blood borne pathogens X
Chemical X
Airborne communicable diseases X
Extreme temperatures X
Radiation X
Uneven surfaces or elevations X
Extreme noise levels X
Dust/particulate matter X
Other (exposure Risks)
Usual workday hours : 8 X 10 12 Other work hours
GEI is an AA/equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.
Description
Your role at GEI. GEI is seeking a Civil Drafter/Designer to join our growing design practice. This position will be located in our Rancho Cordova, California office.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
- This position will involve the preparation of engineering design drawings and figures for a variety of project types including, but not limited to, dams, levees, hydraulic structures, canals, pump stations, building foundations, civil site design, water supply systems, and retaining walls;
- The successful candidate will possess ability in the design and layout of grading plans, heavy civil projects, and roadways, as well as detailing of concrete, steel, and timber structures;
- Candidate should possess ability to implement a variety of CAD standards based on project and client needs.
Minimum Qualifications
- A.S. Degree in Engineering Technology, Drafting, or related field.
- 3+ years of computer-aided design and drafting experience.
- Knowledge of drafting and design with AutoCAD Civil3D with experience creating and modifying alignments, profiles, sections, plan views, surfaces, grading groups, corridors, point data, blocks, label styles, data shortcuts, and details.
- Ability to generate quantity take-offs using AutoCAD.
- Experience with AutoCAD Civil3D 2020 or higher is required; customization and programming experience with AutoCAD is preferred.
- Ability to create subassemblies using Subassembly Composer a plus.
- Knowledge of pipe networks and pressure networks is a plus.
- Structural 3D drafting and design experience (Revit, BIM software) a plus.
- Experience with Microsoft Office applications, specifically Excel.
- Candidates must have good oral and written communication skills, strong work ethic, and be able to work in a team environment.
We are GEI.
Some of the world’s most pressing problems – from climate change to sustainable development, to critical infrastructure and the future of our energy supply – need our brightest and diverse minds working together to create safer, more resilient communities for tomorrow. We are technical experts, collaborators, and entrepreneurs who draw from diverse backgrounds to solve our clients’ most complex challenges. With several offices across North America, we offer a range of engineering, science, and technical consulting services. Our range of expertise, project types, and culture make us the choice for top talent in the AEC industry.
Employee-owned. Employee-focused.
As an employee-owned company, our employees support our flat leadership structure, have a say in how our business operates and benefit from our financial success. We are committed to employee growth with career development opportunities, competitive total rewards, a well-being program, flexible work arrangements and more. Our company culture is driven by our 4 Cs – we are Client-Centered, Curious, Collaborative, and Community Minded – which support our focus on sustainability, safety, diversity, equity and inclusion.
GEI’s Total Rewards Package Includes
- Market-Competitive Compensation, including Eligibility for an Annual Performance Bonus
- Pay Range For This Position: $60,000.00-$80,000.00/year
- Comprehensive Benefits Program, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Disability and More
- Well-Being Program and Paid Parental Leave
- Commuter Benefits
- Hybrid Work Schedules and Cell Phone Stipends
- GEI University (GEIU) with Continuing Education Assistance and Tuition Reimbursement
- Connecting Conversation Program with a Focus on Professional Development and Opportunities for Advancement
- Support and Financial Rewards for Publication Awards, Professional Dues, and Professional Licenses
- Paid Holidays and Generous Paid Time Off Program
- Rewards and Recognition
- GEI-Funded Profit Sharing and 401(k)
- Opportunity to be an Owner and Shareholder
- A Vibrant Culture that is Focused on Partnership, Sustainability, Giving Back to Our Communities and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- And More…
Physical Requirements
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Functional Demands
Sedentary X Light Medium
Other
Activity Level Throughout Workday (check one per row)
Physical Activity Requirements
Occasional (0-35% of day)
Frequent (33-66% of day)
Continuous (67-100% of day)
Not Applicable
Sitting X
Standing X
Walking X
Climbing X
Lifting (floor to waist level) (in pounds) X
Lifting (waist level and above) (in pounds) X
Carrying objects X
Push/pull X
Twisting X
Bending X
Reaching forward X
Reaching overhead X
Squat/kneel/crawl X
Wrist position deviation X
Pinching/fine motor skills X
Keyboard use/repetitive motion X
Taste or smell (taste=never) X
Talk or hear X
Sensory Requirements
Minimal
Moderate
Accurate
Not Applicable
Depth perception X
Hearing X
Environment Requirements
Occupational Exposure Risk Potential
Reasonably Anticipated
Not Anticipated
Blood borne pathogens X
Chemical X
Airborne communicable diseases X
Extreme temperatures X
Radiation X
Uneven surfaces or elevations X
Extreme noise levels X
Dust/particulate matter X
Other (exposure Risks)
Usual workday hours : 8 X 10 12 Other work hours
GEI is an AA/equal opportunity employer, including disabled and veterans.
See All 18 Civil Drafter Jobs in California
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Find Civil Drafter JobsCivil Drafter Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Civil Drafter Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- BKF Engineers12
- GEI Consultants2
- ENTRUST Solutions1
- Kleinfelder1
- Pse Consulting Engineers1
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services6
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in civil drafter jobs across California.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D for site plans, grading, and utility drawings
- Associate or bachelor's degree in drafting technology, civil engineering technology, or a related field
- Knowledge of California Department of Transportation Caltrans standards and plan formatting
- Experience reading and producing construction documents, cross-sections, and right-of-way plans
- Familiarity with local California jurisdiction submittal requirements and title sheet formats
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to coordinate across engineering and survey teams
Civil Drafter Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a civil drafter in California?
Most California civil drafters enter the field through an associate or bachelor's degree in drafting technology or civil engineering technology, available at California community colleges and Cal State campuses. California does not require a state license to work as a civil drafter, but employers consistently prefer candidates who know Caltrans standards and AutoCAD Civil 3D. Earning a Certified Drafter credential through the American Design Drafting Association strengthens a candidate's profile in a competitive California market.
How much do civil drafters make in California?
Civil drafters in California earn a median of about $76,520 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $49,850 for the lowest 10% to over $114,600 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire civil drafters in California?
Employers hiring civil drafters in California right now include BKF Engineers, GEI Consultants, and ENTRUST Solutions, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. California's large-scale infrastructure programs, water district projects, and municipal land development pipeline keep a consistent set of engineering and consulting firms actively recruiting throughout the state.
Which California cities have the most civil drafter jobs?
Brentwood, Clayton, and Martinez have the most civil drafter openings in California. Los Angeles and San Diego generate volume through large transportation, utilities, and private development firms, while Sacramento concentrates hiring around state agency infrastructure programs and Central Valley water projects, drawing engineering consultants that staff civil drafters locally.
Are there remote civil drafter jobs in California?
Yes, but they're rare. Civil drafting is largely tied to site-specific plans, local jurisdiction submittal reviews, and field coordination, which limits remote flexibility compared to purely analytical roles. About 11% of civil drafter openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, and those positions are most often available for experienced drafters handling redline revisions or sheet production for established California clients.
How can I get hired as a civil drafter in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying for a CAD technician or drafting intern role at a mid-size California engineering consulting firm while completing or just finishing an associate degree at a California community college. Firms like infrastructure-focused regional consultants and county public works departments regularly bring on junior drafters for production support work. Building a portfolio of Caltrans-formatted plan sheets, even from coursework, and demonstrating Civil 3D proficiency makes a candidate competitive for those entry openings.
Where can I find and apply to civil drafter jobs in California?
You can find and apply to civil drafter jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings updated regularly. Search the listings below to see roles by city, firm, and project type, then apply directly to the ones that match your experience and availability.
See All 18 Civil Drafter Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Civil Drafter Jobs