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Drafter Automotive Design Salary in South Lake Tahoe, CA

How much does a Drafter Automotive Design make in South Lake Tahoe, CA?

$73,954 (USD)/year

Average Bonus

$1,516 (USD)

per Year
Total Compensation

$74,591.06

As of July, 23, 2026, the average drafter automotive design gross salary in South Lake Tahoe, California is $73,954 or an equivalent hourly rate of $36. In addition, drafter automotive designs earn an average bonus of $1,516. An entry level drafter automotive design with 1-3 years of experience earns an average salary of $54,094. At the higher end of the pay range, a senior level drafter automotive design with 8+ years of experience earns an average salary of $82,946. Salary estimates are based on salary survey data collected directly from employers in South Lake Tahoe, California.
Data powered by ERI

Salary Potential for a Drafter Automotive Design

Explore the estimated salary growth for a Drafter Automotive Design in South Lake Tahoe, CA for up to 5 years. The estimated salary of a Drafter Automotive Design will be $75,862 in 1 year and $84,001 in 5 years.
View Salary by Year
Estimated Salary
$77,820
Average Growth
5.2 %
The estimated salary for a Drafter Automotive Design in 2 years is $77,820, which is 5.2 % average growth. This information is based on ERI's compensation database.

Typical Drafter Automotive Design Education

This chart displays the highest level of education for Drafter Automotive Designs.

  • 0% of Drafter Automotive Designs have less than a High School Diploma
  • 0% of Drafter Automotive Designs have a High School Diploma
  • 100% of Drafter Automotive Designs have an Associate's Degree
  • 0% of Drafter Automotive Designs have a Bachelor's Degree
  • 0% of Drafter Automotive Designs have a Master's Degree
  • 0% of Drafter Automotive Designs have a Doctorate Degree

The typical field of study for a Drafter Automotive Design is Drafting and Design Technician Training.

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Popular Skills for a Drafter Automotive Design

Skills data not available for this job

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Drafter Automotive Design Salaries in Other Locations

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Cost of Living in South Lake Tahoe, CA

The cost of living in South Lake Tahoe, CA is 30% higher than the national average.
Cost of living trend higher
30% higher
than the national average
Whether you're planning to move or just want to see the cost of living in different locations, our cost-of-living calculator is the place to start. Compare salaries for other locations by city, U.S. ZIP code, state, or country.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Drafter Automotive Design do?
Designs and drafts working layouts and master drawings of automotive vehicle components, assemblies, and systems from specifications, sketches, models, prototype or verbal instructions, applying knowledge of automotive vehicle design, engineering principles, manufacturing processes and limitations, and conventional and computer drafting techniques and procedures, using drafting instruments and computerized work aids: analyzes specifications, sketches, engineering drawings, ideas and related design data to determine critical factors affecting design of components based on knowledge of previous designs and manufacturing processes and limitations. Draws rough sketches and performs mathematical computations to develop design and work out detailed specifications of components. Applies knowledge of mathematical formulas and physical laws and uses conventional and computerized work aids to make calculations. Performs preliminary and advanced work in development of working layouts and final master drawings adequate for detailing parts and units of design. Makes revisions to size, shape and arrangement of parts to create practical design. Confers with automotive engineer 007.061-010 and others on staff to resolve design problems. Specializes in design of specific type of body or chassis components, assemblies or systems, such as door panels, chassis frame and supports, or braking system.
How much does a Drafter Automotive Design make in South Lake Tahoe, CA?
The average salary for a Drafter Automotive Design is $73,954 per year or $35.55 per hour in South Lake Tahoe, CA. Top earners have reported making up to $82,946. However, the typical pay range in South Lake Tahoe, CA is between $54,094 and $82,946 annually.
What is the salary trajectory for a Drafter Automotive Design?
Drafter Automotive Design is projected to see a 13.6 % salary change in 5 years.
How can you increase your salary?
Increasing your salary often starts with understanding your value in today’s job market. You can increase your earning potential by building your skills, advancing your education, moving into a new role or industry, switching companies, or negotiating pay.
How can you negotiate a salary offer? 
Negotiating a salary offer involves preparation and finding our your market value. Use our salary calculator to find out how much you should be paid based on what someone in your area, with similar experience, earns. Use this personalized report to help negotiate a higher salary offer or find your dream career. 
What are some factors that impact Drafter Automotive Design salaries? 
Several factors can impact your salary, including experience, company size, job market, location, industry, and more. Understanding how these factors affect your role can help you spot pay gaps and provide opportunities for a competitive salary.

About Our Data

This page is an excerpt of the much more complete compensation information available in ERI's Assessor Series.

ERI compiles the most robust and accurate salary, cost-of-living, and executive compensation survey database available. Data are analyzed using AI and traditional statistics, depending on which approach is best for a particular application. ERI collects salary survey data from five different sources, which you can learn about here.

Verified Sources
Data sourced from internal salary surveys, purchased surveys, public sources, HRIS data, and proprietary databases.
Real-Time Data
Our salary database is updated and verified approximately every six weeks.
Quality Assurance
Along with our data scientists, we have included AI in our rigorous process to analyze and provide the highest quality data.

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