CAD Designer
CAD designers use technology to help generate designs for complex projects. These designs may be used to create 2D images, a process known as surface modeling, or 3D images, or solid modeling.
A CAD designer utilized computer-aided design software to create three-dimensional models of complicated structures for many fields including automotive, manufacturing, product development and many others.
CAD designers are a crucial part of any design team. They bring all the ideas of the team to life in a digital world. From there actual physical prototypes can be manufactured. Ultimately leading to full-scale production!
Job Overview
Salary
Workplace
How to Start
Job Overview
What does a CAD Designer do?
A computer-aided design (CAD) designer is responsible for creating plan outlines and project designs for a specific business need. A CAD designer utilizes various technologies and software applications to generate graphic illustrations. CAD designers must have strong knowledge of the technology designs, software management, engineering standards, and the construction industry fundamentals. CAD designers label their works with appropriate dimensions and specifications, performing necessary adjustments to meet the clients’ needs. A CAD designer requires excellent critical-thinking and analytical skills to manage design structures and creative solutions.
Communication is also an essential part of CAD design. Using the computer-generated plans, CAD designers must work with other team members and departments to set timelines, budgets, and assist in making decisions regarding materials that will be used to complete the project.
CAD designers must know their industry. In order to be effective, they must have knowledge of machines, engineering standards, mathematics, and the materials used to make their plans a reality.
Design Knowledge
CAD designers use software to create detailed 2D or 3D designs for complex projects. They incorporate feedback into 3D model designs and make revisions to models as requested.
Problem Solving Skills
Address limitations of technologies and materials involved in the CAD process.
Communication Skills
These designers communicate with multiple departments within the company in order to collectively integrate all aspects of product development.
Current Industry Knowledge
They pursue ongoing education in the field and keep up to date on all modern advancement in material and software technologies.
Salary
How much does a CAD Designer make?
The average annual salary for a CAD Designer in the United States is $66,190. Salary.com reports that pay typically ranges from $59,090 to $72,490, with most professionals earning between $52,626 and $78,226.
These are 2025 national salary averages and may fluctuate based on location.
Workplace
What does the workplace for a CAD Designer look like?
CAD designers can find work at architecture firms, mechanical manufacturing facilities, civil engineering companies, construction companies, the fashion industry, electronics and tech companies.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, climb stairs, and reach with both hands and arms. The employee is regularly required to talk or hear and to perform repetitive motion. The employee is frequently required to sit.
How to Start
How to become a CAD Designer?
To become a CAD designer, you should first pursue a bachelor’s degree in manufacturing, architecture or engineering. You could also take a CAD course at a community college or technical school, such as a two-year drafting program.
Prospective CAD designers must learn about manufacturing and engineering standards. Gather more experience by obtaining an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) textbook. Study the textbook to learn about manufacturing and engineering standards that relate to your field.
Before you become a CAD designer, you can first hone your design skills as a CAD drafter. Participate in any development opportunities that your employer provides, such as professional networking, group mentoring, online learning and social media resources. Prove yourself by getting things done efficiently and accurately in order to move up in the company as a CAD designer.
