Architectural CAD Technicians assist qualified Architects and Construction Professionals by preparing drawings, developing specifications and creating plans.
Beginning a career in CAD and expected salaries
One route into this skilled job is to gain employment as an Apprentice or Trainee with a firm of Architects or a Civil Engineering company. Anyone who hopes to do this will need good GCSEs and an A-Level in Mathematics, as well as an aptitude for design, and excellent IT skills.
Trainees can expect a starting salary of around £13,000 to £15,000, but this will increase as their design knowledge and computer aided design (CAD) skills improve. They may also be expected to study for relevant qualifications, such as an HNC or HND in Architectural Technology.
The other entry route into the profession is to gain a degree in a subject related to Architecture. Graduate trainees usually earn between £17,000 and £21,000 a year, but money is not generally the most important factor for them. Such candidates often see these junior roles as a way to gain some of the experience they need to become a registered Architect.
Senior CAD roles
Staff who choose to begin a career as an Architectural CAD Technician can expect to earn between £30,000 and £35,000 once they have a few years' experience, with salaries of £45,000 available for permanent jobs in London. There are also well-paid temporary opportunities available via recruitment agencies, as companies often need interim staff for short-term projects.