Signs a Career as a CAD Technician is for You

A CAD Technician is responsible for using Computer Aided Design software to create technical drawings and plans for products and parts used in the engineering, construction and manufacturing industries. Here are the signs you’d make a good CAD technician:

You have…

• knowledge of engineering principles and the ability to create and read technical drawings
• IT skills and experience using computer-aided design software such as Autocad and Solidworks
• the ability to transfer, display and manipulate your work using Microsoft Office and other programmes
• attention to detail to create accurate and detailed drawings and check other colleagues’ work for accuracy
• strong communication skills 
• teamworking skills
• organisation and time management
• a flexible approach
• mathematical skills to complete calculations and estimates
• spatial and design skills to be able to visualise projects in 2D and 3D
• problem-solving, creativity and innovation
• knowledge of health and safety requirements.

You want to…

• create detailed technical drawings and plans and make modifications to existing drawings
• use a variety of CAD software programmes to create designs in 2D and 3D models
• liaise with architects, engineers and designers to understand their design requirements and provide technical advice to manufacturing and construction technicians
• ensure drawings are compliant with industry and health and safety standards
• calculate costs and apply knowledge of materials and engineering principles to check the feasibility of the manufacture and construction of the product
• conduct site visits and surveys when required
• produce installation and manufacturing documentation
• maintain accurate records.

You don’t mind…

• occasional extra hours to meet deadlines
• long periods working at a computer

Getting started

While a degree is not required for a CAD technician role, it may be advantageous in providing relevant knowledge. Useful subjects include:

• Engineering degrees
• Architecture
• Manufacturing courses
• IT and Design

Alternative routes into this career include college courses or apprenticeships.

Employers usually require relevant knowledge and experience of CAD software so gaining work experience is a good idea. Large engineering and construction companies offer summer placements and year-in-industry placements to students in relevant degree programmes. 

Search all CAD jobs on our vacancies page.

Article source: https://www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/cad-technician