CAD Manager

Whether you are performing administrative work or procuring AutoCAD software, Autodesk has resources available to meet the needs of CAD managers and CAD coordinators.

What is a CAD manager?

CAD managers assume the combined roles of CAD drafter, IT department, and manager in design and engineering firms. They differ from CAD coordinators who take a holistic view of the company's design production capability and focus on overarching production related issues to ensure that production never stops.

Responsibilities of a CAD manager

Keeping up with all the changes in the industry can be overwhelming and challenging, yet at the same time they can be viewed as opportunities to make organizations more competitive.

Project management

CAD managers manage staff, projects, and procurement of both software and hardware, plus the day-to-day output of the CAD function.

Time management

CAD managers oversee the work of CAD drafters, making sure that every drawing is legible and professional and adheres to applicable project standards.

People management

CAD managers are skilled at learning their team's individual strengths, building on their weaknesses, and delegating work to the appropriate team member.

Managing software

Customizations and standardizations are crucial to productivity. Showing your prospects or clients what their projects can look like in 3D with the right tools can be the differentiator in landing new business.

Managing projects

There's constantly a myriad of projects in play while juggling priorities. As a CAD manager, you'll be wearing lots of different hats. Always manage to the best of your ability, be knowledgeable, and most of all, be approachable.

Staying competitive

Operational efficiency requires the right training, support, and integration. CAD managers must ensure that the software works and that people can learn how to use it, while also establishing standards and best practices for productivity.

Working smarter is easier with AutoCAD 2024

AutoCAD 2023 software includes industry-specific toolsets; improved workflows across desktop, web, and mobile; and new features such as drawing history.

AutoCAD software for CAD managers

AutoCAD

2D and 3D CAD tools, with enhanced insights, AI-automations, and collaboration features. Subscription includes AutoCAD on desktop, web, mobile, and seven specialized toolsets.

Product details
AutoCAD LT

Best-in-class tool for 2D CAD drafting, drawing, and documentation. Subscription includes AutoCAD LT on desktop, web, and mobile.

Product details
AutoCAD Web

Draft, annotate, and add field data to your drawings online via your web browser or mobile device. Access and edit DWG files, and quickly collaborate with AutoCAD users on designs.

Product details

Guides for CAD managers

Master AutoCAD sheet sets

Whether you design parts or buildings, the sheet set functionality in AutoCAD enables you to efficiently create, manage, and share your entire set of sheets from one location.

Learn more

Choose the right CAD software

Unsure of which CAD software is the right solution for your business? Compare the features of AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT.

Learn more

Earn your Autodesk Certification

Autodesk provides industry-recognized certifications to verify that you have the essential Autodesk software skills and industry knowledge to start your career.

Start your certification

CAD manager resources

Using tool palettes to manage standards

Learn how Tool Palettes can assist CAD managers with the elimination of inconsistencies across workstations, projects, and even offices.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) on CAD Managers

What Autodesk CAD manager tools are available?

Autodesk tools make it more efficient for CAD managers to do their jobs well. AutoCAD includes industry-specific toolsets, improved workflows across desktop, web, and mobile, and new features such as drawing history.

How do I become a CAD manager?

To become a CAD manager, you need to understand how computer-aided design (CAD) software works and how to use it to its fullest potential for your organization. You also need strong communication skills and the capacity to manage projects from start to finish. Explore these CAD management strategies to learn more and get three must-know tips to be a successful CAD manager.

Does Autodesk offer CAD manager certification?

Autodesk offers CAD manager certification and learn-on-your-own options. Autodesk University also provides CAD manager insight from AutoCAD experts.

Does AutoCAD offer CAD management tools?

AutoCAD comes complete with important CAD management tools including seven industry-specialized toolsets, mobile and web apps for enhanced connectivity, and specialized workflow toolsets that enhance collaboration. In addition, the CAD Subscription Administration Management Guide delivers insight to help your teams get up and running quickly with AutoCAD.

What tasks do CAD managers perform?

CAD managers focus on production efficiency for an entire team of professional designers. They ensure workflow runs smoothly, build standard CAD processes, review outputs for quality control, track performance, and manage CAD software.

See more FAQ