CAD Operator — Low Voltage Systems
Job Title: CAD Operator / Low Voltage Draftsperson Department: Design / Engineering Reports to: Lead Designer / Engineering Manager Employment Type: Full-time Location: On-site
About the Role
We're a low-voltage systems installation contractor specializing in the design and deployment of structured cabling, security, fire alarm, audio/visual, access control, and life safety systems. We're looking for a detail-oriented CAD Operator to produce accurate, code-compliant drawings that guide our field crews from rough-in through final inspection. If you live in the details and understand the difference between a CAD drawing that "looks right" and one that installs right, this is your role.
What You'll Do
- Develop 2D drawings and 3D models for low voltage systems including structured cabling (Cat 6/6A, fiber), CCTV/IP video, access control, intrusion detection, fire alarm, AV, and MATV/CATV
- Create floor plans showing device locations, cable pathways, conduit runs, racks, and equipment layouts
- Generate detailed cable schedules, riser diagrams, single-line diagrams, and termination schedules
- Coordinate pathways and device placement with architectural, electrical, mechanical, and IT trades to avoid clashes
- Revise drawings to reflect RFIs, submittals, as-builts, and field changes
- Ensure all drawings comply with NEC, NFPA 70/72, local AHJ requirements, and BICSI best practices
- Support estimating and project management with takeoffs, BOMs, and equipment schedules
- Maintain drawing standards, block libraries, layer conventions, and document version control
What We're Looking For
Required:
- 2+ years of CAD drafting experience, with at least 1 year in low voltage, security, or electrical trades
- Proficiency in AutoCAD (2020 or newer); familiarity with AutoCAD Electrical a plus
- Solid understanding of low voltage system design — device placement, cable categories, pathway fill ratios, and grounding/bonding basics
- Ability to read architectural, electrical, and structural drawings
- Familiarity with NEC, NFPA 72 (fire alarm), and BICSI cabling standards
- High school diploma or equivalent; technical certificate or associate degree in drafting, electronics, or a related field preferred
Preferred:
- BICSI INST1, RCDD, or equivalent certification
- Experience with Revit / BIM coordination
- Familiarity with submittal packages, O&M manuals, and shop drawing workflows
- Knowledge of leading product lines (Honeywell, Bosch, Axis, HID, Leviton, CommScope, Bogen, etc.)
- Background in fire alarm system drafting (NFPA 72-compliant layouts)
Skills & Attributes
- Meticulous attention to detail — small mistakes in low voltage drawings become rework in the field
- Strong spatial reasoning for pathway routing and equipment placement
- Comfortable coordinating with GCs, ECs, and IT teams on active job sites
- Clear communicator who flags design conflicts early, not after rough-in
- Reliable time management — you meet submittal deadlines without cutting corners
What We Offer
- Competitive pay: [$35-$47] based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision benefits
- 401(k) with company match
- Paid time off and holidays
- BICSI certification reimbursement and ongoing training
- Steady pipeline of commercial, healthcare, education, and government projects
Pay: $32.00 - $47.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
