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Salary

How much does a CAD Drafter make?

The average salary for a CAD Drafter is $56,228 per year in the US.

CAD Drafters use specialized software to create detailed drawings. They play a key role in many industries, including construction, engineering, and manufacturing. These professionals can expect to earn a solid salary. The average yearly salary for a CAD Drafter is about $56,228. This range can vary based on experience, location, and industry.

Here is a breakdown of salaries by experience level:

  • Entry-level CAD Drafters: $36,000 - $41,364
  • Mid-level CAD Drafters: $46,727 - $52,091
  • Senior CAD Drafters: $57,455 - $62,818
  • Lead CAD Drafters: $68,182 - $73,545
  • Principal CAD Drafters: $78,909 - $84,273
  • Director-level CAD Drafters: $89,636 - $95,000

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What are the highest paying cities for a CAD Drafter?

Job seekers looking for CAD Drafter roles can find attractive opportunities in several cities. Seattle, WA leads the pack with an average salary of $72,696. Following closely are Albany, NY, and Buffalo, NY, with average salaries around $65,000. These cities offer competitive wages and chances to work with top companies. In addition to these, cities like Chicago, IL and Denver, CO also provide substantial salaries for CAD Drafters. Denver, CO stands out with an average salary of $60,134, making it a desirable place to find work. These locations offer a mix of job opportunities and good compensation for professionals in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for CAD Drafter jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $72,696 and Kansas City, MO with the lowest at $57,599.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $72,696
    In Seattle, CAD professionals play a key role in the city's thriving tech and construction sectors. With companies like Amazon and Microsoft needing detailed designs, opportunities are vast. The Pacific Northwest's tech-savvy environment makes it a prime location for drafting roles.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $65,261
    Albany offers a mix of opportunities for CAD experts in government and private sectors. With key players like New York State and local firms, CAD professionals here contribute to significant infrastructure projects. The state capital's focus on renovation and new construction offers steady work.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Albany, NY


  3. Buffalo, NY
    Average Salary: $65,020
    Buffalo's economy benefits from a strong manufacturing base, providing ample opportunities for CAD experts. Companies involved in aerospace and automotive sectors depend on skilled drafters. Buffalo's cost of living is lower, making it an attractive place for professionals.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Buffalo, NY


  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $62,049
    Chicago is a hub for architecture and engineering, making it an ideal place for CAD professionals. With firms like Boeing and major construction projects, there is a high demand for skilled drafters. The city's diverse job market offers various career paths.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Chicago, IL


  5. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $60,134
    Denver offers a dynamic job market for CAD drafters, with a mix of government and private sector opportunities. The city's growth in tech and renewable energy sectors is creating new roles. Outdoor activities and a high quality of life make Denver an attractive place to work.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Denver, CO


  6. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $59,876
    Portland is known for its sustainable building practices, providing a unique market for CAD professionals. With a focus on green design, firms here are looking for skilled drafters. The city's vibrant community and natural beauty enhance the appeal of working in Portland.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Portland, OR


  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $58,168
    San Diego's warm climate and diverse industries create a lively job market for CAD experts. Defense and biotech sectors need skilled drafters for their complex projects. The city's beautiful beaches and outdoor lifestyle add to its attractiveness.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $57,713
    Phoenix offers a growing job market for CAD professionals, with opportunities in construction and manufacturing. The city's expanding tech sector also provides new roles. The warm climate and low cost of living make Phoenix an appealing place to work.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  9. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $57,616
    Baltimore's focus on healthcare and government offers steady opportunities for CAD professionals. With key employers like Johns Hopkins and the state government, drafters are in demand. The city's rich history and cultural attractions enhance its appeal.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Baltimore, MD


  10. Kansas City, MO
    Average Salary: $57,599
    Kansas City provides a balanced job market for CAD professionals, with opportunities in healthcare and finance. The city's growing tech sector also offers new roles. The affordable cost of living and diverse culture make it a great place to work.
    Find CAD Drafter jobs in Kansas City, MO

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

Luster National pays CAD Drafters the highest salaries among the listed companies. With an average salary of $97,583, this company offers excellent compensation for skilled drafters. Randstad and Colliers Engineering & Design also provide competitive wages, with averages of $56,115 and $50,047, respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for CAD Drafter jobs, highlighting Luster National with the highest at $97,583 and Mancan with the lowest at $44,856.
  1. Luster National
    Average Salary: $97,583
    Luster National offers CAD Drafter roles with competitive salaries. They focus on building and infrastructure. They have offices across the U.S., including New York and Los Angeles.


  2. Randstad
    Average Salary: $56,115
    Randstad provides opportunities for CAD Drafters with a variety of projects. They work with many industries, including manufacturing and construction. Their locations include Chicago and Seattle.


  3. Colliers Engineering & Design
    Average Salary: $50,047
    Colliers Engineering & Design offers CAD Drafter positions with a focus on architecture and design. They have offices in major cities like Boston and Miami.


  4. Insight Global
    Average Salary: $47,331
    Insight Global provides CAD Drafter roles with a mix of permanent and contract positions. They serve various industries. Key locations include San Francisco and Denver.


  5. Mancan
    Average Salary: $44,856
    Mancan offers CAD Drafter jobs in engineering and infrastructure. They have offices in several U.S. cities, including Philadelphia and Austin.

How to earn more as a CAD Drafter?

A CAD Drafter can increase earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining more experience and skills can lead to higher pay. Drafters who master advanced CAD software and techniques can handle more complex projects. This expertise often results in better job offers.

Networking with professionals in the field can open doors to higher-paying jobs. Attending industry events and joining professional groups can help drafters learn about better opportunities. They can also learn from others in the field. Collaborations and partnerships with other professionals can lead to more significant projects. This can boost earnings. Seeking out mentors can provide guidance and career advice. This can lead to higher-paying positions.

Here are five factors to consider to earn more as a CAD Drafter:

  1. Advanced Skills: Learn new CAD software and techniques. This can make you more valuable to employers.
  2. Certifications: Obtain certifications in CAD or related fields. This can enhance your resume and lead to higher pay.
  3. Networking: Connect with other professionals. This can lead to job opportunities that pay more.
  4. Experience: Gain more experience in your field. This can lead to promotions and higher salaries.
  5. Continual Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends and technologies. This can keep your skills relevant and in demand.

Currently 137 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
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CAD Drafter
137 Job Openings