CAD / CAM Drafter

$87,970 earning potential

Computer-aided design (CAD) or computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) drafters take the vision of an architect or engineer and use computer software to create 2D design drawings or 3D simulations to aid in production. Drafters can work in a broad range of fields, so their designs could lead to sleek electronics or towering buildings.

$87,970

High-end Earners in

Arkansas ( Top 10% )

$57,960

median annual wage

$28

median hourly wage

Responsibilities

Develop plans or layouts utilizing computer-aided design software
Work with architects or engineers to create accurate designs for products
Include precise details such as the dimensions and materials
Communicate with the company about codes, standards and specifications
Conduct product design, development and testing

Arkansas

Profile

Name

Whitney Brandon

Job

CAD Drafter

High School

Russellville High School

Age

Where I Trained

Arkansas State University - Beebe

What I earned

Associate degree in computer-aided drafting and design

"I get to see a whole room come to life on my screen and see how it would be enjoyed."

Designing and manufacturing used to be separate beasts. The introduction of CAD/CAM software unified the process, allowing one person to produce all aspects of the finished product.

"Whenever something is designed, you have to take in to consideration fabrication, assembly, and function to be able to truly make a good design."

Arkansas Job Outlook

Average annual job openings

330

Number of jobs by 2028

+13%

Expected growth from 2024 to 2026

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