How To Become A CAD Designer (2024)

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• Published:November 17, 2021

• By:Robin Jennings

What does a CAD Designer do?

CAD designers use computer-aided design software to help generate designs for complex projects. These designs may be used to create 2D images, a process known as surface modeling, 3D images, or solid modeling. They work alongside designers to translate design concepts into physical pieces within an established project time frame.

How much does a CAD Designer make?

According to Ziprecruiter, CAD Designers maintain a national annual salary of $52,268, which is an hourly wage of $25.13. Entry-level CAD designers start around $41,500 annually. Senior-level CAD designers make an annual average of $72,500. The range in salary widely depends on factors including skill, seniority level, and location.

What impact does this career have towards the product design industry?

CAD Designers take products from sketches or 2D models to realistic 3D presentations. They are crucial to making sure that products are viable and meet manufacturing guidelines as designed.

What is the job outlook for a CAD Designer?

According to a report by Grand View Research, Inc, projections show that the global product design and development services market size will reach $18.6 billion by 2028. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities for drafters (including CAD Designers) are expected to decline by 2% during the 2020-2030 decade.

How to kick-off your career:

• Develop an understanding of different types of computer-aided design software.
• Play around with sketching and drawing.
• Read about manufacturing and how it impacts designing a product.
• Explore the Parsons x Wallpaper* Product Design Essentials online course.

Learn from:

Mark Prommel

Product Design Essentials contributor, Partner & Design Lead at Pensa

Related Careers:

CAD Drafter | Product Design Manager | Project Engineer | Mechanical Engineer | CAD Engineer

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