How to become CAD technician
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
University
You could start by doing a higher national diploma or degree that includes computer-aided design work, such as:
- construction
- architectural technology
- product design
- design engineering
Courses that include a year in industry or a summer internship will give you an opportunity to develop contacts and gain relevant work experience.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
College
You could train in computer-aided design by taking a college course like:
- Level 2 Diploma in Engineering Technology
- Level 2 or 3 Award in 2D Computer-Aided Design
- Level 3 Diploma in Engineering Design and Draughting
- T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
- T level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and computing
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
More Information
Apprenticeship
You could complete an intermediate or advanced apprenticeship in engineering, manufacturing or construction.
The exact apprenticeship you take will depend on your job role but there are several that include computer-aided design work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
More Information
Career tips
It's useful to find out the common design software packages used by companies you want to work for. Some software companies offer student packages or free trials that allow you to practise using them.
In construction design, it's useful to have an understanding of Building Information Modelling (BIM).
Further information
You can find more details about working and training in computer-aided design through: