Drafting Technician on computer.

Top 10 Highest Paying AutoCAD Careers

Share

Interested in a career that combines creativity with technical precision? Find out about the Top 10 Highest Paying AutoCAD careers and what they do.

1) Civil Engineer

Average Salary: $57,228.86 – $164,699.83
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $91,245
Education: A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering is required. Some positions may require a master’s degree or higher. Licensing by a provincial or territorial association is also required.
Job Description: Civil engineers are responsible for designing, planning, and supervising infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, buildings, and water supply systems. They ensure that projects are safe, sustainable, and compliant with regulations. Civil engineers conduct site investigations, develop designs and blueprints, estimate costs, and oversee construction.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.6% by 2032.

2) Architect

Project Architect

Average Salary: $62,568 – $125,136
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $82,131
Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited school of architecture. In addition, completion of a three-year internship under the supervision of a registered architect and successful completion of the architect registration examination is required. Provincial association of architects in the province of work is also required.
Job Description: Architects design and plan the construction of buildings and structures, considering both aesthetic and functional aspects. They collaborate with clients to understand their needs, create architectural drawings and blueprints, and oversee the construction process to ensure designs are implemented accurately. Architects must consider safety regulations, environmental impact, and building codes while striving to achieve creative and innovative designs. They work closely with engineers, builders, and other professionals to bring architectural visions to life while managing budgets and timelines.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.9% by 2032. 1,670 job openings are expected in B.C., with the majority being new jobs due to economic growth.

3) Electrical Engineer

Average Salary: $60,169.56 – $120,318.26
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $83,341
Education: A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field is required. Some positions may require a master’s degree or higher.
Job Description: Electrical engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems, devices, and components. They create schematics, oversee projects, and ensure compliance with safety and industry standards. Responsibilities may include testing and troubleshooting, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability. Electrical engineers work across various industries, from power generation and electronics to telecommunications and automation, to drive technological advancements and ensure the safe and efficient operation of electrical systems and equipment.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.5% by 2032. 2,530 job openings are expected in B.C., with the majority due to the replacement of retired workers.

4) Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer

Average Salary: $50,137.82 – $119,963.71
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $76,646
Education: A bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or in a related engineering discipline is required.
Job Description: Mechanical engineers apply knowledge in manufacturing and mechanical systems to develop, improve, and test new designs. They also communicate proposals and assembly procedures with vendors, clients, and other professionals on the design team.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.4% by 2032. 2,300 job openings are expected within British Columbia, with the majority due to the replacement of retired workers.

5) Civil Engineering Technologist

Electrical Engineer

Average Salary: $46,196.04 – $102,194.40
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $77,167
Education: A Civil Engineering Technology Diploma that is nationally accredited by the Canadian Council of Engineering Technicians and Technologists (CTAB) and the Applied Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC)
Job Description: Transform initial concepts and rough sketches into detailed engineering designs and drawings. Also oversees or carries out field surveys, inspections, and technical investigations related to various project elements, including topography, soil, drainage, water supply systems, roads, buildings, and structures, to collect vital data for engineering endeavors.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.7% by 2032. 1,190 job openings are expected in B.C., with the majority due to the replacement of retired workers.

6) Civil Engineering Technician

Project Engineer

Average Salary: $46,196.04 – $102,194.40
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $77,167
Education: A Civil Engineering Technology Diploma that is nationally accredited by the Canadian Council of Engineering Technicians and Technologists (CTAB) and the Applied Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC)
Job Description: Contribute to the creation of engineering specifications and drawings by providing support in their development. Also actively engages on-site surveys, inspections, and technical investigations related to topography, soil conditions, drainage, water supply systems, roads, buildings, and structures to gather essential data for engineering projects.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.7% by 2032.

7) Computer Aided Design (CAD) Drafter

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Drafter

Average Salary: $43,797.60 – $88,638.00
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $62,568
Education: Completion of a college program in design and drafting technology or a related field is usually required.
Job DescriptionCAD drafters create detailed schematics that are utilized in the manufacturing of products and the construction of buildings. These detailed technical drawings incorporate the input of engineers, architects, and surveyors and specify dimensions, codes, materials, and production methods.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.5% by 2032. 1,710 job openings are expected in B.C. with the majority being new jobs due to economic growth. 

8) Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician

Average Salary: $43,797.60 – $88,638.00
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $62,568
Education: Completion of a college program in design and drafting technology or a related field is usually required.
Job Description: A computer-aided design or CAD technician uses CAD systems to create design plans for buildings and machinery. Technicians work with both 3D and 2D design and create 3D displays of a component or structure which engineers are able to utilize.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.5% by 2032. 1,710 job openings are expected in B.C. with the majority being new jobs due to economic growth.

9) Architectural Technologist

Architectural Technologist

Average Salary: $41,712 – $87,720.33
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $63,778
Education: Completion of a college program in architectural technology or a related subject is required.
Job Description: Architectural technologists provide technical assistance to professional architects and civil design engineers in conducting research, preparing drawings, architectural models, specifications and contracts and in supervising construction projects.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.9% by 2032. 740 job openings are expected in B.C.

10)  Interior Designer

Interior Designer

Average Salary: $37,540.80 – $75,081.60
Annual Provincial Median Salary (BC): $59,168
Education: A university degree or college diploma in interior design is usually required.
Job Description: Interior designers work on everything from shopping malls to corporate offices by combining aesthetics with practical considerations. Designers also consult with clients to perform feasibility tests and create detailed plans addressing colour schemes, furnishing styles, materials and placement of specific items.
Market Outlook: There is a projected employment rate increase of 1.2% by 2032. 1,700 job openings are expected in B.C.

 


Get AutoCAD Training

If you’re interested in pursuing a creative and detail-oriented career, Brighton College offers AutoCAD programs that include drafting, building code regulation and design training. Enquire online about our AutoCAD programs or give us a call at 604-430-5608 for more details on how to get started.

Learn more about our AutoCAD Programs

*Data taken from WorkBC

 

 

Get Program Information

What will I receive?
  • One of our Educational Advisors will follow up to ensure your questions are answered and set up a meeting
  • An invitation to attend an information session and tour one of our campuses
  • Detailed course syllabus, course information, and pricing details
  • Updates regarding networking and possible hiring opportunities
Please provide your Full Name.
Please provide your Phone Number.
Please provide your Email.
Please select a Program.
Please enter your question

I consent to be contacted by email, phone, text message or any other form of communication by Brighton College. My consent can be withdrawn at any time.

Please check this box.

Latest Posts

How to Have a Happy VIRTUAL Halloween

Share

Halloween is a time to embrace creativity, enjoy the festive spirit, and take a well-deserved break from studies. Even…

Read More

College Tips for Mature Students: Navigating Higher Education Successfully

Share

Starting or returning to college as a mature student can be an exciting and transformative experience. Whether you’re pursuing…

Read More

From Ballet to Blueprint: Madonna’s Journey to a Dream Career

Share

Dawn Madonna Rozario Architectural Design & Building Technician VALEDICTORIAN, October 2022 Graduation Junior Drafter, Siber Façade Group Meet Dawn…

Read More