Entry-Level CAD Designer
Schnabel Engineering
This job at a glance
- Who can apply
- 2–4 years of experience
- Must know
- CADAutoCADCivil 3DSurveyingSolidWorksRevit
- Work
- On-site in Helena
- Pay
- Not stated by the employer.
- Skill demand
- CAD61%AutoCAD51%Civil 3D9%Surveying7%of 99 similar entry-level jobs posted in the US this week
- Listed
- Nov 7, 2026 · still open
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About Schnabel Engineering
Schnabel Engineering is an employee-owned, professional engineering and consulting firm specializing in geotechnical, geostructural, tunnel, and dam engineering. Our company is committed to high standards of quality, business ethics, and community involvement. We are an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with over 700 employees across 32 offices in the United States. Schnabel has been recognized as one of the Best Engineering Firms to Work for.
About the Role
Schnabel Engineering's Helena, Montana office is seeking an entry-level CAD Designer to support our engineering group. We are looking for a motivated candidate with attention to detail, a passion for professional development, and a desire to be part of a strong multi-disciplinary team. The Helena office focuses on the evaluation and design of dams, structures, and facilities within our Dam Engineering Group, with projects located across the United States.
Drafting Disciplines
- Civil Design – 3D site grading and earthwork, intakes, pipelines/penstocks, fish hatcheries, and hydroelectric facilities
- Structural Design – Precast and cast-in-place concrete structures, fabricated steel structures, wood and metal frame buildings, and bridges
- Mechanical Design – Pump stations, large diameter pipe fittings and valves, and machine design
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare 2D CAD drawings (plans, profiles, sections, and details) for contract documents based on input and guidance from design staff and in accordance with internal drafting standards.
- Prepare 3D models for displaying complex features or structures.
- Maintain drawing files, CAD standards, and other digital files in accordance with internal procedures.
- Prepare graphics for engineering reports, professional papers, and presentations.
- Maintain printers for efficient office use.
- Participate in professional trainings to develop and implement new skills related to various work disciplines.
- Train other technical staff on drafting standards, requirements, and procedures.
Requirements & Tech Stack
- Proficiency with the latest version of AutoCAD and AutoCAD Civil 3D, including experience in developing drawing sets and figures from base data (survey, GIS, point cloud, engineering sketches, etc.) and based on engineering input and guidance.
- Experience in Autodesk Revit and Solidworks is preferable.
- Ability to create and use sheetsets in AutoCAD.
- Knowledge and experience in data linking AutoCAD Civil 3D smart features.
Qualifications
- A minimum of 2 years of drafting/design experience at a consulting engineering firm or production design organization.
- Strong interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to develop large, multifaceted drawing sets based on existing data and engineering sketches.
- Positive attitude and ability to work well in a team environment.
- Associate's degree or certification in Drafting and Design or equivalent practical experience.
- Ability to pass a background check (which may include criminal history, motor vehicle record, and credit check).
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Compensation range: $25/hr to $32/hr.