CAD Specialist Job Description and Responsibilities
CAD stands for computer aided drafting. CAD specialists
are drafters that prepare technical illustrations using computers instead of
the traditional paper, pencil, and measuring instruments.
CAD software programs have a variety of symbols,
measuring tools, and angles installed within the program. In addition to using
CAD, individuals utilize hardware such as digitizers, graphics tablets, cursor
pads, light pens, plotters, and printers. Using this equipment, CAD specialists
can draft any type of drawing that can be done manually.
CAD specialists may be responsible for developing the
actual design or may just be required to draft from the specifications of other
designers. They often work with engineers to develop the specifications for
various systems, machinery, or structures.
CAD specialists can do almost any type of drafting.
They must, however, have the technical skill for the specific industry. For
example, CAD specialists who draft clothing patterns must have a basic
understanding of fashion, just as drafting electronic machinery requires a
knowledge of schematics and wiring diagrams.
CAD specialists usually work fairly normal hours. They
may be required to work overtime to finish a project or meet a deadline.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
CAD specialists can work in a variety of employment
settings. These include:
Construction companies, Architectural firms, Machinery
manufacturers, Engineering firms, Clothing manufacturers, Electronics firms, Electrical
manufacturers, Transportation manufacturers, Communications manufacturers, Utility
companies and Government agencies
Expanding Opportunities
for the 21st Century
The drop in price of CAD programs and systems means
that more industries will be utilizing the services of CAD specialists.
Robotics manufacturers will have an especially great demand for these
individuals.
EARNINGS
Annual earnings for CAD specialists can range from
$24,000 to $65,000 or more depending on the experience, training, education,
expertise, and responsibilities of the individual. Other factors affecting
earnings include the specific employer, industry, and geographic location.
Individuals just starting out will earn between $24,000
and $30,000. With more experience and training, individuals earn from $32,000
to $44,000. Those with a great deal of experience in supervisory or management
positions can earn $65,000 or more.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
CAD specialists just entering the field may work as
trainees. They can advance to full CAD specialists at the same company or
locate a similar position in a larger or more prestigious firm. With additional
experience, training, and education, individuals can also be promoted to
supervisory or management positions.
Some CAD specialists go on to become engineers,
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Some employers require that applicants have a minimum
of a high school diploma; others look for employees with a college degree or
background.
CAD specialists must be trained in drafting, design,
and CAD systems. This training may be obtained in high school, trade or
vocational school, a technical institute, or community college. Classes in
drafting, drawing, computer technology, computer aided design, and engineering
are required.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Requirements vary from job to job. Experience working
with computers is helpful. Proficiency in manual drafting and mechanical
drawing is also helpful but may not be required.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: To team
more about a career as a CAD specialist, contact the Association for Computing
Machinery (ACM) or the American Institute for Design and Drafting (AIDD).
TIPS
Technical, trade, and vocational schools with programs
in this field often offer placement services.
Job openings are advertised in trade journals and the
newspaper classified section. Look under headings such as "CAD
Specialist," "Computer Drafter," "CAD Designer," or
"Computer Designer."
The state employment service may have openings for
government jobs in this specialty.
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