CAD designers and CAD drafters work in manufacturing, engineering and industrial fields. They are responsible for creating the drawings and plans for structures that have not been built yet. Under the supervision of engineers, CAD designers work to produce accurate and usable plans that adhere to the codes and requirements of the industry in which they work. Designers usually work in an office or lab setting, but they may travel with the engineering team to job sites from time to time.
Required Education and Experience
The standards for CAD designers are not universal, and depend upon the needs of the individual employer. However, most companies require at least an associate degree from an accredited drafting program. People with degrees in other fields can often break into design with a certificate in drafting. There are no professional licenses required to become a CAD designer, but many professionals choose to pursue certifications to make themselves more marketable to potential employers.
Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for CAD drafters in 2015 was $53,480 per year, roughly $25.71 per hour. Indeed cites a slightly different figure for Alabama, reporting average hourly pay rates for the state at $18.80. Professional CAD designers should remember that salary and benefits vary significantly based on the size of the company and its location.
Current 3D CAD Designer Opening
Selectek is working with a company in the Hoover, Alabama, area that is seeking to add a 3D AutoCAD designer to their team for a minimum 12-month contract. The job requires experience in 3D AutoCAD, civil site design, grading design and working in an industrial environment. Autodesk certification is preferred, but not required. The right person will have the ability to work well both individually and as part of a team, and will be able to hit the ground running upon hire. This position pays $25-$28 per hour. You can learn more and apply for this position here.
If you are an experienced CAD designer in the Southeast looking for exciting new opportunities, we encourage you to reach out to the expert recruiters at Selectek. We are always seeking strong engineering talent to match with some of the most innovative companies in the region. Contact us today to learn more about our process for helping you take the next step in your career.
