Design Drafter

ENTRUST Solutions Group•San Jose, CA

4d•$56,000 - $98,000•Hybrid

About The Position

ENTRUST Solutions Group is building a talent pipeline for future opportunities; there may not be an immediate opening. The role seeks candidates in California and may include travel to client offices and sites as necessary. The Design Drafter / Engineering Designer supports the planning, design, and permitting of gas and electric utility infrastructure projects. The position prepares engineering exhibits and technical documentation for Caltrans Encroachment Permit Applications, including Design Standard Decision Documents (DSDDs) and Encroachment Policy Exceptions (EPEs). It works with permit coordinators, engineers, estimators, project managers, utility clients, and regulatory agencies to produce accurate, well-supported permit packages and help facilitate timely approvals. The role requires engineering judgment, effective communication, and proactive identification of challenges that could affect project schedules.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field; equivalent relevant experience may be considered.
At least 2 years of experience in engineering design, drafting, utility engineering, transportation engineering, or a related discipline.
Electric and/or gas utility experience.
Proficiency with AutoCAD.
Strong technical writing and document preparation skills.
Ability to interpret engineering standards, specifications, and construction plans.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with Caltrans Design Standards, the Highway Design Manual, and the Encroachment Permit Manual.
Experience writing Design Standard Decision Documents (DSDDs) and Encroachment Policy Exceptions (EPEs).
Knowledge of gas and electric construction practices.
Experience with utility coordination for transportation projects.
Understanding of right-of-way constraints, utility accommodation policies, and permitting processes.
Experience working with utility owners, consultants, or public agencies.
Experience with Salesforce, SAP, and Microsoft platforms.

Responsibilities

Prepare engineering exhibits and plan sheets for Caltrans Encroachment Permit applications.
Research and interpret Caltrans design standards, policies, and utility accommodation requirements.
Develop Design Standard Decision Documents (DSDDs) that justify deviations from applicable design standards.
Prepare Encroachment Policy Exception (EPE) packages, including technical analyses and engineering rationale.
Coordinate with project engineers, designers, surveyors, and utility clients to gather project information and resolve design issues.
Produce engineering drawings using AutoCAD or similar CAD software.
Ensure exhibits and technical documentation comply with Caltrans standards, utility requirements, and project-specific criteria.
Revise engineering documents and exhibits in response to agency review comments.
Maintain organized project files and documentation throughout the permitting process.
Assist with coordination and engineering support during the permitting process.

Benefits

Supportive and inclusive work environment that values diversity and encourages innovation.
Opportunities for professional growth and career development.
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
Generous paid time off; full-time employees are eligible to earn PTO hours.
Retirement program and 401(k) plan with company match.
Tuition reimbursement.
Flexible work schedules.
Company-sponsored medical, dental, and vision plans.
Voluntary life, disability, critical illness, accident, and hospitalization plans.
HSA or FSA medical accounts and FSA dependent care and transportation/parking accounts.
May be eligible for a discretionary bonus as determined by the company.