what is a CAD designer?

A CAD designer creates, plans, and designs for mechanical structures and equipment. In this role, you'll use computer-aided design software to create and modify digital models for physical structures, and your employer may task you with creating technical drawings for prototypes.

Proficiency in various CAD software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Pro/Engineer, sets you apart, as these tools are essential for the job. Moreover, a deep understanding of physics, science, and engineering principles is necessary.

You might also need to create blueprints for different products, set timelines and budgets for development, and help departments make essential decisions about how products look by making design changes.

As a CAD designer, you'll tackle intricate structural designs across different sectors. For instance, you could create 3D models for manufacturing industries during the product development phase. Alternatively, you might work in the automotive industry, where you help engineers transform their concepts into digital blueprints. There's also the possibility of contributing to the aerospace industry by designing new product features or improving existing ones.

It's worth noting that working as a CAD designer requires numerical, design, and engineering skills to determine project specifications. Your proficiency in computer software will be invaluable as you transform product ideas into digital formats.

Would working as a CAD designer suit your skill or interest? Then, read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a CAD designer role.

view jobs near you
1

average CAD designer salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, or BIS, in 2018, the median salary for a CAD designer was $53,920.

Wondering what you can earn as a CAD designer? Find out immediately with the Randstad salary checker! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a CAD designer is.

how to increase your salary as a CAD designer

Your pay as a CAD designer can vary based on experience, qualifications, and the industry you work in. With more years on the job, you gain expertise and can negotiate higher pay than newcomers. Trainee or recent graduate CAD designers generally earn less because they need experience handling complex tasks. Advancing your education can lead to better-paying supervisory or complex roles.

The industry you choose to work in affects your compensation. For example, designing for consumer electronics offers lower pay than aerospace or automotive projects. The complexity of the job and the level of detail required can also boost your earnings. Additionally, your location can influence your salary. Working in major cities tends to pay more due to the higher cost of living and the greater demand for workers, according to Bloomberg.

Male looking up in an office
Male looking up in an office
2

types of CAD designer

If you're a CAD designer, you have the opportunity to work in various sectors, as mentioned earlier. Some common types of CAD designers include:

  • aeronautical CAD designers: in this role, your responsibilities involve creating detailed specifications and engineering drawings for aerospace and aircraft components. These designs are crucial for improving product efficiency and facilitating manufacturing processes.
  • architectural CAD designers: when working in the construction industry, your primary task is to develop structural features and designs for buildings. You'll also be responsible for specifying measurements and materials.
  • electrical CAD designers: as an electrical CAD designer, you'll work in power generation companies and other electrical industries. Your role includes creating layout diagrams for communication centers and power plants. Additionally, you can produce digital blueprints for electrical equipment to help electricians in modifications or repairs.
3

working as a CAD designer

As a CAD designer, you create images and solid models for essential products. Keep reading to learn about what CAD designers do daily and where they work.

4

CAD designer skills and education

If you aspire to become a CAD designer, it's beneficial to have the following qualifications:

  • education: The New England Institute of Technology states that becoming a CAD designer requires graduating from high school and undertaking a two-year associate degree from a recognized community or technical college. This educational background equips you with essential design, drawing, mathematics, and science knowledge. A bachelor's degree in CAD or a related field can also set you apart from other candidates.
  • training and experience: When hired, you typically undergo on-the-job training, which may span several weeks or months. This training may involve learning the specific procedures and software used by the new company.
  • licenses and certifications: obtaining professional certifications can validate your qualifications to current and prospective employers, according to Columbia Southern University. As a CAD designer, certifications from reputable organizations, like the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA), provide specialized knowledge relevant to your daily tasks. They can also advance your career and showcase your proficiency.

skills and competencies

For you to excel as a CAD designer, it's essential to possess the following skills:

  • CAD software proficiency: you'll need to master CAD software, a tool for crafting and modifying 2D and 3D models. You can choose from various CAD software programs to create, edit, and easily share your designs.
  • problem-solving abilities: strong problem-solving skills are essential given your frequent work on time-sensitive projects. These skills empower you to invent innovative solutions when you encounter challenges swiftly.
  • material knowledge: understanding various materials is crucial, as they constitute the building blocks of finished products. Familiarity with material properties helps you generate practical and authentic designs. For example, designing a steel car body requires different software considerations than creating one from aluminum.
  • communication skills: effective communication is vital for collaboration with clients, fellow designers, and engineers. It facilitates idea sharing, explaining complex concepts, and establishing trust with clients. Communication also aids in demystifying the design process.
  • attention to detail: precise measurements and dimensions are your daily companions. Attentiveness to minor adjustments ensures the final product's accuracy.
man in the office
man in the office
5

FAQs about working as a CAD designer

Here, you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about CAD designers.

thank you for subscribing to your personalised job alerts.