Description

A computer aided design and drafting technician (CADD) uses computer software to design plans for buildings and machines. A CAD technician may work in various industries, including engineering, construction, manufacturing, and architecture. Depending on the industry, the CADD technician may be responsible for creating original designs from a general idea or may act as an intermediary, creating electronic versions of technical drawings created by engineers or architects. CADD technicians may specialize in an industry, or may move from industry to industry as the job market dictates. On larger projects, a CAD technician works as part of a team with other technicians, each working on a separate part of the project. Work environment varies by industry as well. A CAD technician may work in a factory, on a construction site or in an office setting. Most CADD technicians work a standard 40-hour work week; however, deadlines may require CADD technicians to work overtime on evenings and weekends.To become a computer aided design and drafting technician, a minimum of a high school diploma with courses in computer aided drafting or a technical school degree is usually required. Often, an associate’s degree in computer aided drafting or design or a field related to the industry is preferred. On average, three to five years of experience in computer aided design is also required, but some companies accept course work in lieu of real world experience. Companies also expect applicants to be at least somewhat familiar with the organization's industry.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Computer Aided Design and Drafting CADD Technician with 3-6 years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

  • Create detailed technical drawings and models using CAD software, ensuring accuracy and adherence to project specifications.
  • Collaborate with engineers and architects to interpret design concepts and translate them into precise technical drawings.
  • Conduct quality checks on drawings to identify errors or inconsistencies and make necessary revisions.
  • Assist in the preparation of design documentation, including specifications, materials lists, and installation instructions, to support construction and manufacturing processes.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) Technician, the following qualifications are required:

  • Demonstrated expertise in computer aided design software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit.
  • Sound understanding of engineering principles, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, and drafting standards.
  • Ability to pay close attention to detail and produce accurate technical drawings and models.
  • Aptitude for identifying and resolving design issues or discrepancies in collaboration with engineers and architects.

Essential Skills For Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) Technician

1

Design Theory

2

Cad (Computer-aided Design)

3

3D Design

4

Designing Concept

Skills That Affect Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) Technician Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

CAD

7%

Career Prospects

The Computer Aided Design and Drafting CADD Technician role is crucial in the Australian industry, especially for professionals with 3-6 years of experience. If you're looking for alternative roles to explore, here are four options to consider:

  • BIM Coordinator: A position that involves managing Building Information Modeling BIM processes, collaborating with project teams, and ensuring accurate and efficient design documentation.
  • CAD Manager: A role focused on overseeing the CAD department, providing technical support, implementing standards, and optimizing CAD workflows.
  • Design Engineer: A position that combines engineering principles with CAD expertise to develop innovative designs, analyze technical feasibility, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Project Manager: A role that involves leading CAD projects, coordinating resources, managing budgets and timelines, and ensuring successful project delivery.

How to Learn

The Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) Technician role in Australia is projected to experience steady growth in the market. According to a 10-year analysis, the demand for CAD Technicians is expected to increase due to advancements in technology and an expanding construction industry. With an increasing number of infrastructure projects and urban development, the job prospects for CADD Technicians are promising. Google doesn't provide specific data on the exact number of employment opportunities available in the future, but the overall outlook for this role indicates a positive trend in terms of job availability and market growth.