As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a CAD Designer V in the United States is $138,200 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $66.
However, a CAD Designer V's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A CAD Designer V's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a CAD Designer V's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Aided Design Drafter III | 4-7 years | $91,216 |
| CAD Designer IV | 7+ years | $117,895 |
| CAD Designer V | 7-10 years | $138,135 |
| Computer Aided Design Supervisor | 10+ years | $93,848 |
| Design/Drafting Senior Supervisor | 10+ years | $112,006 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract CAD Designer Vs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail | 1.98% |
| 3D CAD | 1.44% |
| Schematic | 1.18% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Creativity
|
$161,694 |
17%
|
|
Computer Aided Design
|
$160,312 |
16%
|
|
Commitment
|
$157,548 |
14%
|
|
3D CAD
|
$154,784 |
12%
|
|
Initiative
|
$153,402 |
11%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$153,402 |
11%
|
Understanding how a CAD Designer V's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026For a CAD Designer V, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Computer Aided Design Supervisor role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $93,900 - a projected growth of -32% over your current level.
Salaries for a CAD Designer V can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $140,844 in 2023 to around $135,282 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of CAD Designer V salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $140,844 |
| 2024 | $137,852 |
| 2025 | $135,282 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
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|
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Compensation PlanningHere are companies hiring for CAD Designer V and their salaries, click below for more details.
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A relevant bachelor's degree is essential for a career in CAD design, although some companies may prioritize experience and training. CAD designers can expect a salary range from $132,000 to $169,300, with a median salary of $151,600. This reflects the importance of education in securing competitive compensation in the field.
As of now, the salary for a CAD Designer in the US ranges from a minimum of $132,000 to a maximum of $169,300 annually, with a mid-range salary of $151,600. This reflects the specialized skills and expertise required in the field, significantly higher than the average pay for CAD specialists.
As a CAD Designer, you can expect to earn between CAD 132,000 and CAD 169,300, with a mid-salary of CAD 151,600. This role often includes opportunities for training, progression, overtime, and various company benefits. If you have CAD experience, this could be a great opportunity for you.
In California, the average yearly salary for a CAD Designer V is approximately $169,300. In Massachusetts, the average annual salary is around $151,600, while in New Jersey, a CAD Designer V earns about $132,000 per year. The salary range for this position typically spans from $132,000 to $169,300, depending on experience and location.
CAD designers in the US can expect a salary range based on the following data: the minimum salary is $132,000, the mid-range salary is $151,600, and the maximum salary can reach $169,300. This reflects a more competitive compensation compared to the previously mentioned figures.
At first glance, learning AutoCAD may seem daunting due to its complex tools and commands. However, both experts and average users agree that anyone can master it with time and practice. Additionally, CAD Designers can expect a salary range from $132,000 to $169,300, making it a rewarding career choice for those who invest the effort to learn.
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