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CAD Operator Courses

CAD Operators create construction design drawings, using software to meet standards and collaborate with architects and engineers.

AI Exposure

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Shortage in

  • NSW
  • VIC
  • QLD
  • WA
  • SA
  • TAS
  • ACT
  • NT

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).

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How do I become a CAD Operator

Get qualified to work as a CAD Operator with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.

Undergraduate Certificate in Engineering Foundations

Estimated fee

$4,500

Duration

6 months

Study mode

Online

The Undergraduate Certificate in Engineering Foundations is designed to provide a comprehensive foundational skill set, essential across a wide array of engineering disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, civil, construction, mechatronics, agricultural, marine, aeronautical, and automotive engineering. This course equips students with advanced, cutting-edge skills that are not only valuable in the workplace but also form a solid base for further academic pursuits in any engineering discipline. It's an...

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

$4,500

Duration

6 months

Study mode

Online

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CPP40121

Certificate IV in Residential Drafting

Estimated fee

$189

Duration

6 months - 24 months

Study mode

Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

Learn how to use CAD software and produce drawings for residential buildings with the CPP40121 Certificate IV in Residential Drafting. This nationally recognised certificate qualifies you for drafting work under the supervision of a licensed building designer or architect. Competencies include: working in a building design environment, investigating construction methods for Class 1-10 buildings, construction industry White Card, 3D modelling, producing compliant designs for Class 1-10 residential building...

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

$189

Duration

6 months - 24 months

Study mode

Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

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MEM40422

Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting

Estimated fee

$3,172

Duration

12 months - 24 months

Study mode

Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

The MEM40422 Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting qualifies you for work as a CAD draftsperson in mechanical engineering. This nationally recognised training course is completed either on-campus or online over 2 years. You’ll begin your studies producing freehand sketches and basic engineering drawings — but by the end of the course you’ll be confidently creating advanced 3D models using using computer-aided design (CAD) systems.Enquire now for the list of study units, career outcomes, and training dates.

Career opportunities

Estimated fee

$3,172

Duration

12 months - 24 months

Study mode

Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship

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Related career opportunities

Browse occupations related to CAD Operator.

Common questions

How much does a CAD Operator earn?

In Australia, a full time CAD Operator generally earns $1,400 per week ($72,800 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

What are the job opportunities for a CAD Operator?

There has been strong growth in employment numbers in this industry over the last five years. There are currently 77,000 people working in this field in Australia and many of them specialise as a CAD Operator. CAD Operators may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities.

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a CAD Operator?

If a career as a CAD Operator interests you, consider enrolling in a Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting. This course will allow you to produce freehand sketches and basic engineering drawings and advance to 3D models using CAD systems. You could also consider an Advanced Diploma of Engineering, an Advanced Diploma of Applied Electrical Engineering or an Advanced Diploma of Civil and Structural Engineering.

Choose a field of study

Engineering

A career as a manufacturing engineer crosses a wide range of exciting industries (automotive, textiles, marine, aviation, pharmaceuticals etc) and contributes to a thriving economy.

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A biomedical engineering job gives you the chance to use groundbreaking tenets of the overall engineering sector to help improve the quality of life of everyday Australians. Pathways for domestic and international students.

Chemical Engineering

Gain expertise in chemical reactions, process optimization, and sustainable solutions from industry professionals and renowned institutions. Pathways for domestic and international students.

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More information

A CAD (Computer Aided Design) Operator creates design drawings for use on building and construction projects. You’ll use various CAD software to prepare plans and blueprints for a range of projects and you’ll work closely with architects and engineers. CAD Operators may work from given specifications or you might attend building sites to gather required information. You’ll ensure plans meet all relevant building standards and legislation.

A CAD Operator should have excellent attention to detail and strong time management skills. It’s important that you can communicate with clients, colleagues and other project stakeholders. CAD Operators should be skilled in a range of design software and have a strong knowledge of the building industry.

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