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Associate Cad Designer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Engineering CAD Designer Staff

Duluth, MN · On-site

$103K - $155K/yr

An engineering CAD Designer is responsible for developing composite and metallic airframe, systems ... Associate's Degree or comparable work experience * At least 6 years' experience using Creo ...

CAD Designer III

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$31.73 - $52.29/hr

Designer III's will use computer-based tools to design parts and assemblies, create production drawings, and manage BOMs. Designer III's will also originate, develop, or modify product designs from ...

CAD Drafter / Designer

Glencoe, MN · On-site

$60K - $66K/yr

Delta Fabricating is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented CAD Drafter / Designer to join our team ... Associate or Technical degree preferred (Computer Aided Drafting and Design) * Strong verbal and ...

Associate Degree or certificate in Computer-Aided Drafting, Civil Engineering Technology, or ... Familiarity with hydrology, drainage, and stormwater management designs in CAD. * Basic ...

CAD Technician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$50K - $80K/yr

Associate Degree or certificate in Computer-Aided Drafting, Civil Engineering Technology, or ... Familiarity with hydrology, drainage, and stormwater management designs in CAD. * Basic ...

CAD Drafter / Designer

Glencoe, MN · On-site

$60K - $66K/yr

Delta Fabricating is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented CAD Drafter / Designer to join our team ... Associate or Technical degree preferred (Computer Aided Drafting and Design) * Strong verbal and ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Cad Designer information

See Minnesota salary details

$19.1K

$57.4K

$85.7K

How much do associate cad designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate cad designer in Minnesota is $57,355.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $66,600.00 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 Minnesota?

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Associate Cad Designer jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Associate Cad Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Cad Designer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,355 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Engineering CAD Designer Staff

Cirrus Aircraft

Duluth, MN • On-site

$103K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Cirrus Aircraft rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

An engineering CAD Designer
is responsible for developing composite and metallic airframe, systems, and
electrical designs and layouts. In this role, you will create models and
detailed production drawings of components and assemblies using Creo
Parametric.
  • Work directly with Engineering to complete new designs and modifications, incorporate engineering change orders and release detailed drawing packages
  • Create and revise solid models and detailed drawings of complex components and assemblies using Creo Parametric
  • Manage, promote and release engineering data using Windchill PDMLink
  • Assist in creation of guidance documents and standards, when directed.
  • Helps in training and mentoring of personnel, when directed.

  • Associate's Degree or comparable work experience
  • At least 6 years' experience using Creo Parametric and Windchill PDMLink or equivalent
  • Experience creating eBOM or use WTparts in Windchill, preferred
  • Strong experience creating detailed design drawings of airframe structures, propulsion components and system components preferred.
  • Proficient in using multiple manufacturing processes, like weldments, sheet metal forming, CNC machining, metal part assembly and preferred to have composite layup drawings experience.
  • Strong understanding of top-down modeling principles and practices
  • Proficiency in geometric dimensioning and tolerance
  • Ability to work effectively with others in a cross functional organization
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Effective interpersonal skills

Our Benefits: Cirrus provides a range of exciting benefits, including:

  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, vision, dental, with additional dependent coverage options
  • Employer-Paid Coverages: Group term life, short- and long-term disability insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: FSA and HSA offerings with company contributions to HSA
  • Well-being: Calm Health, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness incentives through medical provider
  • 401(k) Plan: Dollar-for-dollar match up to 5% after 90 days, with 100% vesting at 1 year of service
  • PTO: Various PTO plans starting at 100 hours accrued within the first year
  • Additional Time off Benefits: Paid holidays, 2 weeks of Paid Parental leave, paid time for funeral leave and jury duty
  • Career Development: Tuition reimbursement program and professional growth opportunities
  • Exclusive Discounts: Cirrus Store, partner and marketplace discounts available
  • Community & Engagement: Company and employee clubs at various locations

These benefits are designed to support your well-being, growth, and enjoyment at Cirrus!
Salary Range: USD $103,501.95/Yr. - USD $155,252.93/Yr.

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