As of August 01, 2025, the average annual salary for a CAD Drafter III in the United States ranges from $82,951 (25th percentile) to $98,834 (75th percentile), with a median annual salary of $91,216 and an hourly rate of $44. A CAD Drafter III's salary is shaped by several key factors, including experience level, specific skills, industry differences, company size, and more. Below, we'll explore how each of these influences compensation.
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Last Updated on August 01, 2025An entry-level CAD Drafter III with less than 1 year of experience earns about $87,515. With 1-2 years of experience, the average salary increases to $88,132. For 2-4 years of experience, the pay typically rises to $89,366. Senior-level professionals with 5-8 years of experience earn around $93,490, and those with over 8 years of experience can expect an average of $95,537.
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level CAD Drafter III | $87,515 |
| Intermediate Level CAD Drafter III | $88,132 |
| Senior Level CAD Drafter III | $89,366 |
| Specialist Level CAD Drafter III | $93,490 |
| Expert Level CAD Drafter III | $95,537 |
What Am I Worth?
Salaries in the United States differ widely between states due to factors like cost of living, local economies, and industry presence.
Salaries in the United States can vary greatly between cities due to factors like cost of living, local economies, and industry presence.
According to our 100% employer reported salary sources the median salary for a CAD Drafter III with a No Diploma is $92,048 - $97,709. Please try our salary wizard to explore how other factors like location, Years of experience and number of direct reports can impact your base pay and bonus.
CAD Drafter III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| Associates | 100.0% |
As of August 01, 2025, our research reveals a significant shift in CAD Drafter III compensation over the past six years. For example, the median salary increased from $99,234 in 2023 to approximately $96,932 in 2025. (For a detailed analysis of CAD Drafter III salary trends, click here.)
Key factors like location, experience, industry demand, and economic growth significantly influence salary variations, making them important to consider.
| Median | % of Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Salary | $91,216 | 62.9% |
| Bonus | $12,695 | 8.8% |
| Median | % of Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | $7,949 | 5.5% |
| 401K/403B | $4,364 | 3.0% |
| Disability | $2,078 | 1.4% |
| Healthcare | $8,352 | 5.8% |
| Pension | $5,611 | 3.9% |
| Time Off | $12,789 | 8.8% |
| Total Compensation | $145,055 | 100% |
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The average annual salary of CAD Drafter III is $91,216. In case you are finding an easy salary calculator, the average hourly pay of CAD Drafter III is $44; the average weekly pay of CAD Drafter III is $1,754; the average monthly pay of CAD Drafter III is $7,601.
A CAD Drafter III's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a CAD Drafter III earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a CAD Drafter III is $115,051.
The highest pay for CAD Drafter III is $105,770.
The lowest pay for CAD Drafter III is $75,426.
Utilizes computer-aided design (CAD) software and other techniques, standards, and tools to prepare technical drawings. Prepares computer-aided design (CAD) drafts, drawings, and schematics derived from a variety of specifications, layouts, blueprints, and sketches. Maintains deadlines, goals, and production standards set by the department. Coordinates and consults with engineers or designers to complete projects. Transforms initial rough product designs into working documents using CAD software. Collaborates with design originators to resolve discrepancies between original drawings and final CAD designs. Typically requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Typically requires 4-7 years of related experience.
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We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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