What is the difference between a computer aided drafter and a computer aided designer?

While computer-aided drafters and computer-aided designers have similar functions, in that they both use CAD software to complete, modify, and optimize designs for construction projects and high-precision parts, there are significant differences between them. A drafter takes the sketches and rough designs of engineers and architects to develop them within CAD software, making sense of a 2D drawing. A designer takes their own ideas from conception to design directly into a CAD program. The designer can also work in both 2D and 3D modeling, virtual prototyping, assembly checks, and more.