What Jobs Can You Get With an AutoCAD Certificate?

Posted on 01/01/2020 by Niko Venev

Computer-aided design (CAD) is a burgeoning field, so it’s perhaps no surprise that more people are becoming interested in learning how to use CAD tools, especially AutoCAD, the most popular type of CAD software. Undergoing training in CAD and AutoCAD can lay the foundation for a variety of interesting professional paths, and even entry-level AutoCAD jobs tend to be fairly well-paid.


       

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Are CAD Jobs in Demand?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of drafting jobs is expected to remain steady until at least 2028. However, the availability of jobs can depend on a few factors, including the health of the local economy and the particular industry. CAD jobs can span a wide variety of fields, but it’s predicted that most new jobs in the coming years will be in the realms of construction and engineering services.

To stand out in the present or future crowded workforce, you’ll have to obtain as much training as you can to establish yourself as a skilled professional. One of the easiest ways that you can do this is to take a CAD or AutoCAD course. Job prospects for those who complete these courses and earn certification may instantly improve, as they demonstrate valued skills.

 

What Jobs Can You Get With a CAD Certificate?

After completing CAD training and certification, you’re likely to find that jobs are available in a range of different industries, including:

  • Aeronautics
  • Electrical
  • Mechanical
  • Architectural
  • Civil engineering

Students who earn a CAD certificate may find themselves with job titles such as:

  • Civil drafter
  • Architectural drafter
  • Electrical drafter
  • Mechanical drafter
  • CAD operator
  • CAD technician

When people refer to a “CAD certificate,” they’re usually referring to the type of certificate that’s obtained at a community college. However, these certificates can require a significant time commitment, and they’re often not necessary to land entry-level jobs. For AutoCAD certificate-holders, this valued credential is frequently more than adequate to demonstrate their skill level to hiring managers.

 

What Can You Do With an AutoCAD Certificate?

AutoCAD software jobs are often tied to your industry and the kind of certification that you’ve earned, so the possibilities are wide-ranging. Many positions focus on drafting, engineering, design, or architecture. You could find yourself creating a skyscraper, building and tweaking a new consumer product, or even drawing up schematics for a fighter jet.

There are two levels of certification: Autodesk Certified User (ACU) and Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP). While obtaining the ACU credential can provide you with the basic skills necessary to qualify you for work in designing and drafting across many industries, earning an ACP certification establishes you as an advanced professional.

Autodesk’s ACP programs ensure that users have the advanced skills necessary to perform many industry-specific jobs. Alongside AutoCAD certification, other credentials can add even more to a worker’s skill set. For instance, Revit Architecture certification can teach a worker how to incorporate Revit while working in concert with architects to draw 3D objects. Civil engineers might find that they could use a grounding in Civil 3D as well as AutoCAD software. And some jobs in fields requiring CAD software might also call for certification in Inventor. With one or more ACP certifications, a worker can really stand out on the job market!

 

How Much Do AutoCAD Jobs Pay?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that drafters earn a median wage of $55,550, and it’s not uncommon for a drafter to be paid as much as $85,140 a year. There can be some variability in pay depending on the industry and the level of experience; veteran electronics and electrical drafters, mechanical drafters, and architectural and civil drafters are typically paid the most, while entry-level AutoCAD jobs tend to come with lower starting pay.

Some industries and companies put a premium on employees who are familiar with AutoCAD, so much so that pay increases may come when an employee earns an AutoCAD certification. Jobs that require mastery of AutoCAD can be lucrative, and with a little help from Certstaffix Training, they can also be well within your reach. We’ve developed a number of convenient classes that can help teach you what you need to know about the software, from basic knowledge to advanced operations. Sign up for one of our courses today to take advantage of hands-on learning with an expert instructor!

 







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