CAD Technician


We're looking for people who:

are graphically gifted and technically adept at creating models and drawings.

What you will do:

With the help of computer-assisted drafting software and  other drafting tools, you will prepare detailed drawings and models of buildings that encompass how they fit into  their surroundings. Some specific tasks you will be asked to complete include:

  • Visit construction site  to take measurements, and later confirm architectural designs are implemented correctly
  • Analyze laws governing buildings in your area and related technical documents for their impact on the design of a structure and its surroundings
  • Evaluate the structural integrity an architectural design, considering weight, volume, and stress factors of the materials used
  • Analyze heat loss and gain capability of systems to make sure specified equipment is capable of handling the task
  • Meet with the  project architect to finalize complete initial cost estimates, contracts, bidding documents, and technical reports

Knowledge required for this job:
  • The role of design  principles in creating  technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • Knowledge of  the materials, building methods, and tools used to  construct and repair  buildings
  • Understanding how to apply mathematical principles, especially  in geometry and algebra
  • Understanding how computers and software work together, particularly for computer-assisted drafting programs
  • Effective written and oral  communication

Skills required for this job:
  • Drawing skills (including paper and pencil sketches and lettering) and competency  constructing models, drawings, and blueprints using computer-assisted drafting programs
  •  Mathematical problem solving .
  • Ability to process new information and then integrate it with prior knowledge
  • Paying attention to what people say, and knowing  the  appropriate time to ask questions

What education you need:

Most CADD technicians' jobs require at least some college experience. A majority (62.1%) of people ages 25-44 who currently hold this kind of job have an associate's degree. About one-fifth (21.6%) have a bachelor's degree or higher, with 16.3% holding a high school diploma or lower.

Salary:

Nationally, people working in this job earn between $12.99 and $30.44 an hour. In Maryland, the pay scale ranges from $12.77 - $26.87 an hour. (Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) 2007)

Future job prospects

Nationally, all CADD technicians' jobs are expected to increase from 110,100 positions in 2004 to 115,200 in 2014. (+5%) In Maryland, jobs numbers are expected to increase, with 1,570 positions in 2004 and 1730 in 2014. (+11%)

According to the Maryland Commission on Higher Education, training for this career is available through these resources:

  • Keywords: CIP Code - 151301 and 151302- DRAFTING AND DESIGN TECHNOLOGY/TECHNICIAN, GENERAL located these 2-year programs.

The Maryland Career Clusters help students prepare for their future education and careers while they are in high school.  The job of CAD Technician is part of the Construction and Development Career Cluster, in the core areas of Design and Construction.

You can explore other careers in the Construction and Development Career Cluster here.


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