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Associate Cad Designer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer

Millstadt, IL ยท On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

JOB SUMMARY The CAD Designer is responsible for creating, modifying, and maintaining detailed shop ... Associate degree, technical certificate, or equivalent training in Drafting, CAD Technology ...

CAD Designer

Lombard, IL ยท On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

We are seeking a skilled CAD Designer specializing in underground utilities and gas line ... Associate's degree or certification in CAD Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field (or ...

CAD Designer

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Role Overview The CAD Designer is responsible for creating, maintaining, and revising 3D models and ... Associate's degree in CAD, Engineering Technology, or related field * OR equivalent combination of ...

CAD Designer

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Role Overview The CAD Designer is responsible for creating, maintaining, and revising 3D models and ... Associate's degree in CAD, Engineering Technology, or related field * OR equivalent combination of ...

Role Overview The CAD Designer is responsible for creating, maintaining, and revising 3D models and ... Associate's degree in CAD, Engineering Technology, or related field * OR equivalent combination of ...

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary Langan is seeking a CAD Designer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL . This ... Associate's degree, certification, or equivalent experience in drafting, civil technology ...

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary Langan is seeking a CAD Designer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL . This ... Associate's degree, certification, or equivalent experience in drafting, civil technology ...

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary Langan is seeking a CAD Designer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL . This ... Associate's degree, certification, or equivalent experience in drafting, civil technology ...

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$55 - $85/hr

The role of CAD Designer will be to create and/or modify component and assembly design layouts ... Associate degree in engineering related field * 3+ years' experience with the primary ...

New

CAD Designer

Champaign, IL ยท On-site

$20/hr

Design custom products and equipment layouts using CAD software and engineering drawing tools. * Develop detailed drawings and assemblies for manufacturing and installation. * Evaluate designs for ...

Mechanical CAD Designer

Loves Park, IL ยท On-site

$65 - $90/hr

ABOUT THE JOB The Mechanical CAD Designer is responsible for the CAD design of mechanical equipment ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Associates degree from a two-year college (preferred ...

Staff CAD Designer

Lombard, IL ยท On-site +1

$32.02 - $41.57/hr

About the opportunity SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Staff CAD Designer to support our ... Associate's degree in Geography, Cartography, CADD Drafting, GIS Technology (GIST), Engineering ...

Mechanical CAD Designer

Loves Park, IL ยท On-site

$65 - $90/hr

ABOUT THE JOB The Mechanical CAD Designer is responsible for the CAD design of mechanical equipment ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Associates degree from a two-year college (preferred ...

CAD Designer

Plainfield, IL ยท On-site

$63K - $76K/yr

Overview The Plate Structures Designer is responsible for utilizing 2D and/or 3D CAD skills, CB&I ... Associates Degree or 2-year technical degree or equivalent experience preferred. * Proficient in 2D ...

Staff CAD Designer

Lombard, IL ยท On-site

$32.02 - $41.57/hr

About the opportunity SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Staff CAD Designer to support our ... Associate's degree in Geography, Cartography, CADD Drafting, GIS Technology (GIST), Engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Cad Designer information

See Illinois salary details

$18.9K

$56.7K

$84.8K

How much do associate cad designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate cad designer in Illinois is $56,747.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $65,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate CAD designer?

Associate CAD Designers are entry-level professionals who use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to create technical drawings, blueprints, and plans for various industries such as engineering, architecture, or manufacturing. They assist senior designers and engineers by developing detailed schematics, modifying existing designs, and ensuring that projects meet technical specifications and industry standards. Associate CAD Designers often collaborate with team members, interpret sketches or notes, and revise designs based on feedback. This role is ideal for individuals with strong technical skills, attention to detail, and a foundational understanding of design principles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate CAD designer?

To thrive as an Associate CAD Designer, you need a solid understanding of drafting principles, geometry, and design software, typically demonstrated by a relevant associate degree or CAD certification. Proficiency with industry-standard CAD tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is required for creating and editing technical drawings. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help you interpret requirements and collaborate with engineers or architects. These skills ensure the accuracy and efficiency of design projects, leading to successful project outcomes and client satisfaction.

How does an associate CAD designer typically collaborate with engineers and other team members during a project?

As an Associate CAD Designer, you'll frequently work alongside engineers, architects, and senior designers to develop detailed drawings and plans. Collaboration often involves attending project meetings, interpreting design concepts, and incorporating feedback into your CAD models. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as you'll need to adjust designs based on technical requirements or client input. This role also offers valuable opportunities to learn from more experienced colleagues and expand your technical skills through teamwork.

What is the difference between Associate Cad Designer vs Junior CAD Technician?

AspectAssociate Cad DesignerJunior CAD Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or certification in CAD or related fieldHigh school diploma; some technical training or certification preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, architectural firms, engineering companiesConstruction sites, design firms, engineering departments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across architecture, engineering, and design industriesCommon in construction, civil engineering, and architectural firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The Associate Cad Designer typically holds a formal certification or degree and focuses on creating detailed CAD drawings in design offices. In contrast, a Junior CAD Technician often has less formal education and may work more on implementing drawings in construction or engineering environments. Both roles are essential in the design and construction process, but they differ mainly in education level and work focus.

How much does an associate CAD designer earn?

An associate CAD designer typically earns between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The role often requires proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks and may involve full-time work hours.

Is there a demand for associate CAD designers?

The demand for associate CAD designers remains steady across industries such as engineering, architecture, and manufacturing, especially as companies seek skilled professionals proficient in CAD software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks. Employment opportunities are often influenced by industry growth, project pipelines, and the need for technical drafting skills, with many roles requiring relevant certifications and experience with design tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Designer jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Cad Designer jobs in Illinois are:

Infographic showing various Associate Cad Designer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,747 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

CAD Designer

CooperWorks

Millstadt, IL โ€ข On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description:

ABOUT US

We are a growing company specializing in high-quality commercial laminated products and custom casework solutions. Our mission is to provide innovative, durable, and cost-effective products that meet the needs of contractors, architects, designers, and commercial clients. We take pride in our craftsmanship, attention to detail, and commitment to customer satisfaction.


JOB SUMMARY

The CAD Designer is responsible for creating, modifying, and maintaining detailed shop drawings, production drawings, and technical documentation for commercial laminated products, casework, countertops, and related projects. The CAD Designer is detail-oriented, technically skilled, and capable of working closely with sales, estimating, project management, and production teams to ensure designs accurately reflect project requirements and manufacturing capabilities.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Create detailed shop drawings, production drawings, and assembly drawings for commercial laminated products and casework projects.
  • Interpret architectural plans, specifications, and design documents to develop accurate manufacturing drawings.
  • Prepare layouts, elevations, sections, and detail drawings for fabrication and installation.
  • Collaborate with sales, estimating, project management, and production teams to ensure project requirements are accurately reflected in drawings.
  • Review drawings for completeness, accuracy, manufacturability, and compliance with project specifications.
  • Revise and update drawings based on client comments, field conditions, and project changes.
  • Coordinate material specifications, dimensions, hardware selections, and construction details within project drawings.
  • Generate bills of materials (BOMs), cut lists, and support production documentation as required.
  • Maintain drawing standards, file organization, and revision control procedures.
  • Assist with project handoff meetings and provide technical support to production and installation teams.
  • Ensure drawings are completed within project schedules and deadlines.
  • Stay current with industry standards, software updates, and manufacturing best practices.


Requirements:

REQUIRED SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

  • Strong knowledge of commercial casework, cabinetry, architectural millwork, or laminated products.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or other CAD drafting software.
  • Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, blueprints, and specifications.
  • Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and fabrication processes.
  • Excellent attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate drawings.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills.

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS

  • Associate degree, technical certificate, or equivalent training in Drafting, CAD Technology, Architectural Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred.
  • Minimum of 2–5 years of experience in CAD drafting, casework design, millwork drafting, or related industries.
  • Experience working with commercial construction documents and architectural specifications preferred.
  • Familiarity with manufacturing and production environments is highly desirable.
  • Experience creating shop drawings for commercial projects is a strong advantage.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management software.
  • Experience with CNC programming, nesting software, or manufacturing systems is a plus.