CPT Civil Drafter Jobs
Civil Drafter CPT jobs let F-1 students apply AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and site plan skills in real engineering environments while satisfying curriculum requirements. Your DSO must authorize each CPT position before you start work, and the role must connect directly to your civil engineering or drafting program.
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Company Description
At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For over 60 years, we have dedicated ourselves to innovative, sustainable engineering that shapes the built environment and tackles complex infrastructure challenges. Our team culture emphasizes balance, growth, and well-being, supporting each member’s professional journey with flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work-life integration.
With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF’s decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths.
Job Description
KPFF San Diego is always on the lookout for motivated and energetic AutoCAD Drafting Interns. Applications should include resume, cover letter, and sample of work if possible.
KPFF proudly takes part in students’ educational and professional development. This is an opportunity for a dynamic candidate to work either full-time or part-time on a wide variety of intriguing projects throughout the local area, while expanding their technical knowledge and experience. We go beyond giving interns a glimpse into the job; we place them in the middle of it. AutoCAD Drafting Interns work in a close knit team environment in a rapidly expanding entrepreneurial company. These teams contribute to the professional growth of our Interns by sharing professional experience.
Qualifications
Ability to sit and/or stand for prolonged periods of time at a desk working on a computer viewing a screen using Autodesk® AutoCAD® and other design-related software.
Ability to learn new tasks, maintain focus, understand and absorb instructions, and complete tasks independently.
Candidates should have excellent communication skills and enjoy working in a collaborative, team environment. Seeking candidates who have a degree in computer drafting and design, or are currently pursuing their degree. High School Diploma or GED required. Some Civil CAD experience preferred. Applicants must be willing to undergo a test to demonstrate level of CAD knowledge and ability.
Compensation
KPFF values the contributions of our interns and strives to provide fair and competitive compensation based on location and market standards. For this position, compensation includes:
- Hourly Pay: $21 per hour.
- Overtime Eligibility: Interns are eligible for overtime pay in accordance with local labor laws.
- Interns may receive a way we work allowance based on their commuting option.
Culture
At KPFF, interns are valued as key contributors to our success. We cultivate a collaborative, innovative, and supportive work environment that empowers individuals to take ownership of their projects. Interns at KPFF experience a dynamic workplace where autonomy and creativity are encouraged. Our team takes pride in mentoring interns and sharing professional insights to help shape the next generation of civil engineers.
KPFF Consulting Engineers is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
How To Apply:
Submit your application online, including a cover letter, resume, and your current unofficial transcripts.
This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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Get Access To All JobsCivil Drafter CPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Civil Drafter role qualify for CPT authorization?
Yes, provided the work directly relates to your enrolled program, which for most F-1 students means a civil engineering technology, surveying, or drafting degree. Your DSO will verify the connection between job duties and your coursework. Roles involving AutoCAD plan production, site grading, or utility layout typically satisfy this requirement for programs with a technical drafting component.
Can I do CPT as a Civil Drafter at a small surveying or engineering firm?
Yes. CPT has no employer size requirement, so small land-surveying firms and boutique civil engineering consultancies are eligible. The key is that the employer can provide a written offer letter describing your duties, a confirmed work location, and a supervisor of record. Smaller firms sometimes offer more hands-on AutoCAD and Civil 3D exposure than larger ones.
How do I find Civil Drafter employers who are comfortable with CPT?
Migrate Mate filters engineering employers by their Labor Condition Application filing history, which helps you identify firms already familiar with F-1 work authorization. Prioritize firms that have filed LCAs for drafting, civil design, or survey technician roles, since they've navigated the process before and are less likely to withdraw an offer over CPT paperwork.
Does full-time CPT as a Civil Drafter affect my OPT eligibility?
It can. If you accumulate 12 months or more of full-time CPT, you lose eligibility for post-graduation OPT. Part-time CPT, defined as 20 hours per week or fewer, does not count toward that limit regardless of duration. If your program spans multiple semesters, coordinate with your DSO to keep cumulative full-time CPT below the 12-month threshold.
What documents does my employer need to support my CPT authorization?
Your DSO typically requires a signed offer letter on company letterhead that includes your job title, start and end dates, work address, hours per week, and a brief description of your duties. Some schools also require a training agreement or a faculty supervisor signature confirming curriculum relevance. Ask your DSO for the exact checklist before approaching the employer so you collect everything in one request.