Career Definition for a Structural CAD Technician
Structural CAD technicians produce drawings for projects, such as public works systems, residential and commercial buildings, and concrete and steel bridges. Using computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) techniques and software, they create complex drawings and 2D and 3D renderings of structural components, including framework, foundations, roofs, and retaining walls. They often assist engineers in outlining designs, gathering data, performing graphic imaging, drawing sketches of existing structures, and interpreting structural markups. They may also perform administrative duties, produce documentation and progress reports, participate in meetings, and perform computations. Structural CAD technicians are sometimes known as AutoCAD drafters and may work in offices, visit construction sites, or submit work from home via the Internet. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that 49% of all drafters work in the architectural and engineering sectors.
| Education | Associate degree is common; bachelor's also available and preferred by some employers |
| Job Skills | Drafting fundamentals, industry specifics, math aptitude, communication |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $60,340 (architectural and civil drafters) |
| Job Growth (2021-2031)* | -1% (architectural and civil drafters) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Educational Requirements
Structural CAD technicians generally have an Associate in Applied Science degree in industrial technology, engineering design, or a related field; however, some employers may prefer a B.S. in drafting technology. Coursework should include instruction in CAD software, such as AutoCAD and MicroStation, 2D and 3D modeling, mechanical drawing, math, and science. The American Drafting and Design Association (ADDA) website offers information about accredited drafting and design programs throughout the country, as well as voluntary certification, which may benefit job seekers.
Skills Needed
Structural CAD technicians must have a solid understanding of drafting fundamentals, with the ability to use the latest drafting software as well as sketch freehand. They must be analytical and have strong math aptitude combined with artistic ability and creativity. Technicians should be familiar with CADD techniques, software, and principles specific to the industries in which they specialize, such as highway and city design, water and drainage systems, transportation infrastructure, construction, agriculture, or mining. They must have good communication skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team. In addition to expertise with drafting software, they must also be familiar with commonly used word processing and spreadsheet programs.
Economic Forecast and Career Outlook
The BLS expects job declines for architectural and civil drafters to be about 1% for the 2021-2031 period, varying slightly depending on various areas of specialty. As CAD software becomes more user-friendly, a wider variety of basic drafting functions can be performed by untrained personnel, tempering job growth somewhat. Job prospects should be best for structural CAD technicians with the strongest technical skills. In May 2021, median annual earnings for architectural and civil drafters ranged from less than $37,370 for the lowest-paid ten percent to more than $80,560 for the highest-paid ten percent.
Alternative Careers
Here are some other options for careers in engineering:
Civil Engineering Technician
For those wanting to delve further into the actual creation of structural designs, becoming a civil engineering technician could be the right option. These technicians examine drawings from drafters to verify measurement accuracy. They also make site visits to determine if the design is being properly executed in addition to analyzing building materials and soil, developing cost estimations, and compiling project information into written reports. Although a degree is not required to enter the profession, an associate degree in civil engineering technology may be appealing to some employers. According to BLS projections, civil engineering technicians are expected to experience 0% employment growth during the 2021-2031 decade. In 2021, these professionals earned a median wage of $58,320.
Architect
If utilizing CAD software to create building designs for government and private clients sounds intriguing, consider a career in architecture. Architects meet with clients to determine what the design vision should be and use their artistic skills to draw sketches and blueprints. They also choose construction materials, create cost estimates and schedules, prepare construction contracts, oversee construction work pertaining to the design, and make sure clients are satisfied. Aspiring architects must complete three stages before working in the field; earning a 5-year bachelor's or master's degree in architecture, working as an intern for at least 3 years, and receiving a passing score on the Architect Registration Exam. Upon completion, an architect can obtain a required state license. The BLS predicts that job opportunities will increase 3% for architects from 2021-2031, with about 3,300 new positions opening up during that time. As reported by the BLS in May of 2021, architects received median yearly compensation of $80,180.
