Position
Salary

How much does a CAD Drafter make?

The average salary for a CAD Drafter is $55,648 per year in the US.

A CAD Drafter uses computer-aided design software to create technical drawings. This job is important in many industries, including architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. The average yearly salary for a CAD Drafter is around $55,648. This means that most CAD Drafters earn between $35,000 and $94,300 each year.

The salary can vary based on experience, skills, and location. CAD Drafters with more experience and specialized skills often earn more. Those in big cities or areas with a high cost of living may also see higher salaries. CAD Drafters can expect to earn more as they gain experience and advance in their careers.

View CAD Drafter jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a CAD Drafter?

CAD Drafters can find some of the best pay in Seattle, Washington, where the average salary reaches $69,818. Los Angeles, California, and Colorado Springs, Colorado, follow closely with average salaries of $66,319 and $65,628, respectively. These cities offer strong opportunities for those skilled in computer-aided design.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for CAD Drafter jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $69,818 and Portland, OR with the lowest at $58,272.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $69,818
    In Seattle, CAD Drafters work in a thriving tech hub. Companies like Amazon and Boeing offer many opportunities. The city's innovative environment makes it a great place for design professionals.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $66,319
    Los Angeles provides a dynamic setting for CAD Drafters. With a focus on film and entertainment, companies like Disney and Warner Bros. need skilled drafters. The city's diverse industries offer varied projects.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $65,628
    Colorado Springs is known for its strong defense and aerospace sectors. CAD Drafters here work with companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. The city's growing tech scene offers many job opportunities.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  4. Virginia Beach, VA
    Average Salary: $65,296
    In Virginia Beach, CAD Drafters find work in both the military and commercial sectors. With companies like Huntington Ingalls Industries, the city offers stability and growth. The coastal location adds to the quality of life.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Virginia Beach, VA


  5. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $60,466
    Chicago is a hub for architecture and engineering. CAD Drafters here work with firms like Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. The city's rich history and vibrant culture make it a great place to live and work.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL


  6. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $59,425
    Raleigh offers a mix of tech and research opportunities. Companies like IBM and Red Hat need skilled drafters. The city's growing economy and affordable living make it an attractive choice.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Raleigh, NC


  7. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $59,186
    Baltimore provides a mix of maritime and healthcare opportunities. CAD Drafters work with companies like Johns Hopkins and the U.S. Navy. The city's historic charm and vibrant arts scene add to its appeal.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Baltimore, MD


  8. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $59,079
    In Albany, CAD Drafters find work in government and education sectors. Companies like GE and the New York State government offer many opportunities. The city's rich history and cultural events make it a unique place to work.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Albany, NY


  9. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $58,860
    Buffalo offers a mix of manufacturing and healthcare opportunities. CAD Drafters work with companies like General Electric and Kaleida Health. The city's lower cost of living and strong community make it a great place to live and work.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Buffalo, NY


  10. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $58,272
    Portland is known for its eco-friendly and creative industries. CAD Drafters work with companies like Nike and Columbia Sportswear. The city's vibrant culture and outdoor activities make it a desirable place to live and work.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Portland, OR

What are the best companies a CAD Drafter can work for?

Randstad offers CAD Drafters one of the highest average salaries at $60,192. This company provides a competitive pay package and valuable career growth opportunities. Express Employment Professionals also pays well, with an average salary of $52,568 for CAD Drafters. This company values skilled professionals and offers a supportive work environment.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for CAD Drafter jobs, highlighting Randstad with the highest at $60,192 and Mancan with the lowest at $44,847.
  1. Randstad
    Average Salary: $60,192
    Randstad offers competitive salaries for CAD Drafters. They provide opportunities in various industries, including architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. Locations include major cities across the U.S.


  2. Express Employment Professionals
    Average Salary: $52,568
    Express Employment Professionals offers solid pay for CAD Drafters. They focus on placing candidates in engineering and construction firms. They have offices in many states, providing diverse job opportunities.


  3. Ops Plus Inc
    Average Salary: $52,364
    Ops Plus Inc provides good compensation for CAD Drafters. They work with clients in the aerospace and defense sectors. Their offices are located in key areas, offering various job opportunities.


  4. Insight Global
    Average Salary: $48,524
    Insight Global offers a fair salary for CAD Drafters. They place candidates in industries like manufacturing and technology. Their presence spans multiple states, providing a range of job options.


  5. Mancan
    Average Salary: $44,847
    Mancan offers a competitive salary for CAD Drafters. They work with clients in the construction and engineering sectors. Their offices are located in several states, offering various job opportunities.

How to earn more as a CAD Drafter?

A CAD Drafter can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining experience and expertise in specialized industries such as architecture, civil engineering, or mechanical design can lead to higher-paying positions. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest CAD software and technologies also enhance job prospects. Networking with professionals in the field and seeking out mentorship can open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Taking on additional responsibilities, such as project management or team leadership, can also lead to salary increases. Finally, obtaining certifications and advanced degrees in CAD or related fields can make a CAD Drafter more competitive in the job market.

Here are some factors that can help a CAD Drafter earn more:

  1. Specialize in high-demand industries.
  2. Stay updated with the latest CAD software and technologies.
  3. Network with professionals and seek mentorship.
  4. Take on additional responsibilities and roles.
  5. Obtain certifications and advanced degrees.

Currently 90 CAD Drafter job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a CAD Drafter in the US?

Learn what a CAD Drafter does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a CAD Drafter today.
Position
Overview
CAD Drafter
90 Job Openings