CAD Technician

Actalent connects visionary companies with specialized engineering and sciences talent to advance innovation and scale projects efficiently.

About the role

This CAD Technician role prepares high-quality engineering drawings using AutoCAD and Civil 3D, transforming sketches, design information, verbal instructions, and notes into accurate plans that follow established standards. The position supports civil and mechanical projects with a strong emphasis on civil design and works closely with engineers to deliver complete documentation for water, wastewater, and related infrastructure systems.

This is a 12-month contract-to-hire position based in Little Rock, AR, with the opportunity to convert to a permanent role offering insurance, benefits, generous PTO, and a flexible schedule.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed computer-generated engineering drawings from sketches, general engineering and design information, verbal instructions, and notes using AutoCAD and Civil 3D.
• Develop civil and mechanical 3D CAD drawings, with a focus on civil projects such as water systems, sewer systems, and water treatment facilities.
• Follow established company drafting standards, procedures, and best practices to ensure consistency and quality across all drawings.
• Review and check all drawings for completeness, accuracy, and compliance with engineering requirements before submission to engineers.
• Collaborate closely with engineers and project team members to clarify design intent and incorporate feedback into drawings.
• Update and revise drawings as project requirements change, ensuring all documentation remains current and properly coordinated.
• Utilize GIS and CAD tools where applicable to support civil design and infrastructure projects.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with team members to resolve design and drafting issues in a timely manner.
• Learn and adapt quickly to new project requirements, tools, and standards within the drafting and civil design environment.
• Support the contract-to-hire engagement by demonstrating reliability, quality of work, and strong teamwork.

Requirements

• 2–5 years of experience in a CAD drafting role, with civil discipline highly preferred.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a CAD drafter, preferably supporting civil engineering projects.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD for preparing engineering drawings.
• Experience with Civil 3D, with strong preference for candidates who have used it on civil projects.
• Hands-on experience with 3D CAD drafting in civil and/or mechanical disciplines.
• Ability to prepare accurate drawings from sketches, design information, and verbal instructions.
• Strong communication skills to work effectively with engineers and project team members.
• Ability to learn quickly and adapt to new tools, standards, and project requirements.
• Willingness and ability to work in a contract-to-hire arrangement.

Skills

• Experience with civil CAD applications related to sewer systems, water systems, and water treatment projects.
• Familiarity with GIS tools and their integration with CAD for civil infrastructure projects.
• Experience in mechanical process drafting is acceptable and can be beneficial.
• Experience working within established drafting standards and procedures in an engineering environment.
• Ability to handle multiple large projects and adjust priorities as needed.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing complete and accurate drawings.

Work Environment

This fully onsite position is based in an office environment within a growing engineering firm of approximately 25 employees. The team operates in a family-oriented atmosphere, collaborating on a large portfolio of significant engineering projects. The environment supports professional growth, close coordination with engineers, and exposure to a wide range of civil and mechanical design work.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $20.00 - $30.00/hr. Individual compensation within this range will depend on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may include the following for eligible employees:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital coverage.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available.
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents).
• Short and long-term disability.
• Health Spending Account (HSA).
• Transportation benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation, or Sick Leave).