Top 11 CAD Design Engineer Certifications

Certifications for a CAD design engineer are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of proficiency and expertise in the use of CAD software. Employers want to know that their engineers are capable and knowledgeable in the use of the software they will be using, so having certifications can give employers peace of mind that they have hired an experienced and qualified engineer. Additionally, certifications can help engineers stand out from other applicants, as it shows employers that they have taken the initiative to learn more about the software and further their knowledge. Lastly, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement within a company or to move into different roles.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for CAD Design Engineers and explain how they can enhance a cad design engineer's career.

What are CAD Design Engineer Certifications?

CAD Design Engineer Certification is a type of professional certification that is designed to help CAD (Computer Aided Design) engineers demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field. This certification typically requires passing an examination administered by a professional organization or educational institution. The exam tests the engineer's ability to correctly use CAD software and create designs that meet industry standards.

Having this certification can help CAD engineers stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or seeking promotions. It also shows potential employers that they have taken the time to gain a deeper understanding of their craft and are committed to staying up-to-date on the latest technologies. Furthermore, having this certification may open up opportunities for additional training, conferences, and seminars which can be beneficial for career growth.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research and understand any state or local laws that may affect your ability to obtain or maintain a cad design engineer certification. This will help ensure you are in compliance with all applicable regulations and avoid potential legal issues.

Related: What does a CAD Design Engineer do?

Top 11 CAD Design Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to CAD Design Engineers today.

1. Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP)

Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to use Autodesk software effectively. The ACP certification validates an individual’s ability to design, create, manage, and optimize projects using Autodesk products.

It typically takes about two months to prepare for the ACP exam. The time commitment varies depending on the individual’s familiarity with Autodesk products and their level of experience in the field. To get certified, individuals must pass a rigorous exam that covers topics such as 3D modeling, drafting, visualization, rendering, animation, and more.

The cost of taking the ACP exam depends on which version of the exam you are taking. The standard version costs $250 USD while the advanced version costs $350 USD. The fee also includes access to online study materials and practice tests.

Once an individual has passed the ACP exam they will receive a certificate from Autodesk recognizing them as an Autodesk Certified Professional. This certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional exams or completing continuing education courses.

2. Autodesk Certified User (ACU)

Autodesk Certified User (ACU) is a certification program from Autodesk that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the use of Autodesk software. The ACU certification is designed to provide an entry-level credential for those who are new to Autodesk software, and it serves as a foundation for furthering one's career with Autodesk products.

The ACU certification requires individuals to pass an online exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of the features and functions of the Autodesk software they are using. The exam typically takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour to complete.

To get certified as an ACU, you must first register for an ACU account on the Autodesk website, then purchase the appropriate ACU exam voucher for the product you wish to be certified in. Once you have purchased your voucher, you can schedule your exam at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through the Autodesk website. Depending on your location, exams may cost between $100-$200 USD per product.

Once you have completed your exam, your results will be available within 24 hours and your certificate will be emailed to you. You can also access your certificate anytime through your ACU account on the Autodesk website.

3. SolidWorks Certified Professional (SCWP)

SolidWorks Certified Professional (SCWP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in the use of SolidWorks software. This certification is offered by SolidWorks Corporation, a leading provider of 3D CAD design and engineering software.

The SCWP certification requires passing an exam that tests the user’s knowledge and skills in using SolidWorks. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as part modeling, assembly modeling, drawing creation, sheet metal design, surfacing, weldments, and more. It typically takes about three hours to complete the exam.

In order to get certified as an SCWP, you must first register for the exam online through the SolidWorks website. The cost of taking the exam is $150 USD. Once you have registered for the exam and paid the fee, you will be given access to a practice test which will help you prepare for the actual exam. After passing the practice test, you can take the actual SCWP exam at any authorized testing center.

Once you pass the SCWP exam, your name will be added to a list of certified professionals on Solidworks' website and you will receive an official certificate from Solidworks confirming your achievement. You will also receive a digital badge that can be used on social media platforms or websites to demonstrate your expertise in using SolidWorks software.

4. Autodesk Inventor Professional Certification (IPC)

Autodesk Inventor Professional Certification (IPC) is an industry-recognized certification program for Autodesk Inventor software users. It is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of professionals who design, develop, and maintain products using Autodesk Inventor. The certification requires individuals to demonstrate their proficiency in using the software by passing a series of exams.

The IPC program consists of two levels: Associate and Professional. The Associate level is designed for those with basic knowledge of Autodesk Inventor, while the Professional level is meant for experienced users who have mastered advanced features and techniques.

In order to get certified at either level, applicants must pass three exams: one on general Autodesk Inventor concepts, one on 3D modeling and assembly design, and one on drawing production. Each exam takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also provide proof of professional experience or education in order to be eligible for the Professional level certification.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on location but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD per exam. The cost includes access to online study materials as well as a practice exam to help prepare for the real thing.

Overall, getting certified can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on how quickly you can study and pass all three exams.

5. PTC Creo Parametric Certification (PPC)

PTC Creo Parametric Certification (PPC) is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills of experienced Creo Parametric users. It demonstrates an individual’s ability to create and modify 3D CAD models, assemblies, drawings, and other related documents. The certification is offered by PTC University and is recognized by employers in the engineering industry as a mark of excellence.

The certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on practical exam. The written exam tests your knowledge of the fundamentals of Creo Parametric, while the practical exam tests your ability to use the software to solve design problems.

It typically takes around four weeks to complete both parts of the certification process. To get started, you need to register for an account with PTC University and then purchase a training package that includes access to online courses and practice exams. Once you have completed these steps, you can schedule your exams at any time that works for you.

The cost of PTC Creo Parametric Certification varies depending on which training package you choose. Generally speaking, packages range from $500-$1,500 USD depending on their scope and duration.

6. Autodesk Revit Architecture Certification (RAC)

Autodesk Revit Architecture Certification (RAC) is a professional certification program for individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in using Autodesk Revit software. This certification is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of professionals who use Autodesk Revit to create building designs and construction documents. The certification program consists of two exams: the Core Exam and the Advanced Exam.

The Core Exam covers topics such as project setup, model navigation, view creation, annotation, families, scheduling, and printing. The Advanced Exam covers topics such as design analysis, collaboration tools, rendering techniques, advanced family creation, and automation tools.

It typically takes between 30-90 days to obtain Autodesk Revit Architecture Certification (RAC). To get certified, you must pass both the Core Exam and the Advanced Exam with a score of 80% or higher. You can purchase exam vouchers from Autodesk's website or through an authorized reseller. Each exam voucher costs $125 USD.

7. Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D Certification (ACC3D)

Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D Certification (ACC3D) is an official certification program offered by Autodesk to validate a user’s proficiency in using the AutoCAD Civil 3D software. This certification demonstrates that the user has a comprehensive understanding of the software, its features, and its capabilities.

The certification process requires users to pass two exams: one on basic concepts and another on advanced topics. The exams are administered online and typically take about 2-3 hours each to complete. The cost for each exam is $200 USD.

In order to become ACC3D certified, users must first register for the program by creating an Autodesk Account and then enrolling in the appropriate courses through Autodesk University (AU). Once enrolled, users can access study materials and take practice tests before attempting the actual exams. After passing both exams, users will receive their official ACC3D certificate from Autodesk.

8. Autodesk Fusion 360 Certification (AFC360)

Autodesk Fusion 360 Certification (AFC360) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to become proficient in the use of Autodesk Fusion 360 software. The certification is designed to recognize those who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in using the software for 3D design, engineering, and manufacturing projects.

The Autodesk Fusion 360 Certification exam consists of two parts: a written exam and an online practical project. The written exam tests your understanding of the basic concepts and features of Autodesk Fusion 360, while the online project requires you to apply your knowledge to solve real-world design problems. To pass this exam, you must score 80% or higher on both portions.

The entire process takes approximately four hours to complete. You can take the written portion at any authorized Autodesk training center or online through their website. Once you have successfully completed the written portion, you will be given access to an online project that you must complete within six weeks. Once you have completed both portions of the exam, you will receive your official Autodesk Fusion 360 Certification (AFC360).

The cost for taking the Autodesk Fusion 360 Certification (AFC360) varies depending on where you take it and what type of package you purchase from Autodesk. Prices typically range from $150-$500 USD depending on whether or not additional services are included such as practice exams or instructor support.

9. Siemens NX CAD/CAM Certification (SNXCC)

Siemens NX CAD/CAM Certification (SNXCC) is a certification program for professionals who use Siemens NX software to design and manufacture products. The certification program provides an opportunity for professionals to demonstrate their expertise in the use of the software, as well as gain recognition from peers and employers.

The certification consists of two levels: Certified Associate and Certified Professional. To become certified, applicants must pass a series of exams that cover topics such as basic NX concepts, product design, manufacturing processes, and advanced modeling techniques.

Certification typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on the applicant’s experience level and commitment to studying for the exams. Applicants must also have access to a valid license of Siemens NX software in order to take the exams.

To get started with SNXCC, applicants will need to register with Siemens PLM Software and purchase an exam voucher from the company's website or through an authorized reseller. Exam vouchers cost around $250 USD per exam. Once registered, applicants can begin studying for the exams using online resources provided by Siemens PLM Software or through third-party training courses offered by various vendors.

Once all of the required exams have been passed successfully, applicants will receive their SNXCC certification badge which they can display on their professional profiles or resumes as proof of their expertise in using Siemens NX software.

10. Dassault Systemes CATIA V5 Certification (DCV5C)

Dassault Systemes CATIA V5 Certification (DCV5C) is a certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of users in the design, engineering, and manufacturing industries. This certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in the use of Dassault Systemes CATIA V5 software.

The DCV5C certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as product design, analysis, and simulation. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. It costs $150 USD to take the exam.

In order to get certified, applicants must first register for the exam on the official Dassault Systemes website. They will then receive an email with instructions on how to access the online testing platform. Once they have passed the exam, they will receive their certification from Dassault Systemes.

The DCV5C certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued. After this period has expired, applicants must retake the exam in order to maintain their certification status.

11. ANSYS Mechanical APDL and Workbench Certifications (AMAWC).

ANSYS Mechanical APDL and Workbench Certifications (AMAWC) are certifications that demonstrate proficiency in the use of ANSYS software for mechanical engineering applications. The certification is offered by ANSYS, Inc., a global leader in engineering simulation software.

The AMAWC certification consists of two parts: an online exam and a hands-on project. The online exam covers topics such as basic mechanics, finite element analysis, and ANSYS Mechanical APDL and Workbench. It takes approximately one hour to complete the exam.

The hands-on project requires the candidate to use ANSYS software to solve a mechanical engineering problem. This project can take anywhere from one day to several weeks depending on the complexity of the problem being solved.

The cost of obtaining the AMAWC certification depends on which type of certification you are seeking (Basic or Advanced). Basic certification costs $100 USD, while Advanced certification costs $200 USD.

In order to get certified, candidates must register with ANSYS and submit their application along with payment for the appropriate fee. Once approved, they will receive access to study materials and instructions on how to complete the online exam and hands-on project. After successful completion of both parts of the certification process, candidates will be awarded their AMAWC certificate.

Do You Really Need a CAD Design Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a CAD design engineer, then having a certificate can be beneficial. It demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the field. Additionally, having the certification can help you stand out among other applicants for jobs in the field.

On the other hand, if you already have experience working in CAD design engineering, then a certificate may not be necessary. Employers may be more interested in your portfolio of work and your relevant experience than any type of certification. However, if you want to increase your chances of being hired or promoted, then it can definitely be worth looking into getting certified.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual person to determine whether or not they need a CAD design engineer certificate. Consider your current level of skill and experience when making this decision and decide what would best benefit your career goals.

Related: CAD Design Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About CAD Design Engineer Certifications

1. What is a CAD Design Engineer Certification?

Answer: A CAD Design Engineer Certification is a professional certification that recognizes the skills and knowledge of an individual in the field of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) engineering. It typically includes competency in areas such as design fundamentals, 3D modeling, product lifecycle management, and more.

2. What are the benefits of obtaining a CAD Design Engineer Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a CAD Design Engineer Certification can provide many benefits, including increased job opportunities or promotions within your current organization, higher earning potential, and improved credibility within the industry.

3. How do I become certified as a CAD Design Engineer?

Answer: To become certified as a CAD Design Engineer, you must first pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as Autodesk or SolidWorks. Additionally, you may need to have relevant work experience or complete specific training courses to qualify for some certifications.

4. How long does it take to obtain a CAD Design Engineer Certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to obtain a CAD Design Engineer Certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought and the individual’s prior experience with CAD software and engineering principles. Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from several months to several years to achieve certification depending on these factors.

5. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a CAD Design Engineer Certification?

Answer: Yes, there are costs associated with obtaining a CAD Design Engineer Certification which can include exam fees, application fees, and any required training courses or materials needed for study purposes.