CAD Software
Civil
Mechanical
AutoCAD 2025
The industry standard for 2D drafting and documentation. Essential for regulatory compliance and construction documents.
Proficiency adds +$8k to baseline salary Best for: Construction documents and 2D drafting
CAD Software
Mechanical
Aerospace
SolidWorks Professional
Advanced parametric 3D modeling with integrated simulation and rendering tools.
Certified Associates earn 12% more Best for: Mechanical design and complex assemblies
CAD Software
Mechanical
Manufacturing
Autodesk Fusion
Cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE tool. Integrates design, engineering, and manufacturing in one platform.
ConsLess mature than SolidWorks Key skill for modern hardware startups Best for: Startups and integrated manufacturing
CAD Software
Aerospace
Automotive
CATIA V6
High-end PLM and CAD solution for complex surface modeling and systems engineering.
Aerospace specialists earn +$20k with CATIA Best for: Aerospace and automotive OEMs
CAD Software
Mechanical
Product Design
Onshape Professional
The first 100% cloud-native CAD platform with full version control and simultaneous editing.
Demand growing 30% YoY for cloud CAD Best for: Distributed teams and agile hardware
CAD Software
Civil
Infrastructure
Bentley MicroStation
Powering infrastructure design, construction, and operations globally.
ConsNiche outside infrastructure Essential for DOT and government projects Best for: Large scale infrastructure projects
CAD Software
Mechanical
Aerospace
Siemens NX
Advanced high-end CAD/CAM/CAE for integrated product development.
ProsPowerful synchronous tech Advanced NX skills command +$15k premiums Best for: High-end aerospace manufacturing
CAD Software
Architectural
Product Design
Rhino 8
Versatile 3D modeler using NURBS for precise geometry in design and manufacturing.
ConsNot parametric by default Grasshopper skills add +$10k to design roles Best for: Complex geometry and generative design
CAD Software
Architectural
Civil
SketchUp Pro
Easy-to-use 3D modeling for architectural conceptualization and planning.
ConsNot for precision engineering Standard for preliminary site planning Best for: Rapid conceptual modeling
CAD Software
Mechanical
Makers
FreeCAD
Open-source parametric 3D modeler made primarily to design real-life objects.
Great for learning parametric fundamentals Best for: Budget-conscious engineers and makers
Free
Review