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Cad Apprentice Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

MindSource is seeking an experienced CAD Administrator to support and maintain a Computer-Aided Dispatch environment for Public Safety operations. The role involves administering CAD systems ...

The CAD Manager may be located in any of our office locations. Although this position is advertised in multiple locations, only one position is available. Job Summary: A CAD Manager oversees the ...

The CAD Manager will partner with civil and structural project managers, project engineers, surveyors, and technicians to jointly lead the development of engineering and survey deliverables in ...

The CAD Manager may be located in any of our office locations. Although this position is advertised in multiple locations, only one position is available. Job Summary: A CAD Manager oversees the ...

a well-established manufacturer is looking to bring a CAD Drafter on to its team. The company is projected to grow from $30M to $40M in annual revenue , expand its workforce by 20% , and is planning ...

CAD Drafter

Saint Charles, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

a well-established manufacturer is looking to bring a CAD Drafter on to its team. The company is projected to grow from $30M to $40M in annual revenue , expand its workforce by 20% , and is planning ...

Deputy CAD Administrator Position Summary The Deputy CAD Administrator supports the overall management, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the company's CAD and design technology environment.

Deputy CAD Administrator Position Summary The Deputy CAD Administrator supports the overall management, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the company's CAD and design technology environment.

Deputy CAD Administrator Position Summary The Deputy CAD Administrator supports the overall management, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the company's CAD and design technology environment.

Deputy CAD Administrator Position Summary The Deputy CAD Administrator supports the overall management, maintenance, and continuous improvement of the company's CAD and design technology environment.

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary Langan is seeking a CAD Designer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL . This individual will serve a key function in providing and producing accurate engineering construction ...

Job Summary Langan is seeking a CAD Designer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL . This individual will serve a key function in providing and producing accurate engineering construction ...

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CAD Drafter/Detailer

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Position Summary We are seeking a detail-oriented CAD Drafter to support our engineering team. This role will focus on creating and revising technical drawings and layouts using CAD software ...

CAD DETAILER

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

Develop 3D CAD assembly models for tradeshow exhibits and booth structures * Convert linear and square-foot estimates into detailed production drawings * Produce graphic layouts and placement ...

The CAD Programmer reviews work orders and procedural manuals to determine critical dimensions of design. He is responsible for calculating figures to convert design dimensions specified for ...

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Cad Apprentice information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do cad apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cad apprentice in Chicago, IL is $22.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.84 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a CAD apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a CAD Apprentice, you typically need a foundational knowledge of engineering or architectural principles, along with a relevant diploma or coursework in drafting or design. Familiarity with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, and sometimes basic certification in these tools, is highly valuable. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills help you adapt quickly and collaborate with design teams. These competencies ensure accurate technical drawings, efficient workflow, and successful integration into professional project environments.

What is the difference between Cad Apprentice vs CAD Technician?

AspectCad ApprenticeCAD Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in CAD, drafting, or related field
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, often supervised, entry-levelProfessional office setting, project-based work
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, engineering, architecture firms during trainingDesign firms, engineering companies, architecture firms

In summary, a Cad Apprentice is an entry-level trainee gaining foundational skills, often in a supervised setting, while a CAD Technician is a more experienced professional responsible for creating detailed technical drawings independently.

What is a CAD apprentice?

CAD Apprentices are individuals who are learning the skills needed to use computer-aided design (CAD) software under the guidance of experienced professionals. They typically work in fields like engineering, architecture, or manufacturing, assisting with creating technical drawings, models, and plans. Throughout their apprenticeship, they gain hands-on experience in drafting, following industry standards, and collaborating on project designs. This role serves as an entry point to becoming a skilled CAD technician or designer.

What types of projects can a CAD apprentice expect to work on during their training period?

As a CAD Apprentice, you can expect to support a variety of engineering or architectural projects, including drafting technical drawings, updating existing plans, and assisting with 3D modeling. You'll typically work under the guidance of experienced CAD technicians or engineers, collaborating closely with design teams to ensure your work aligns with project specifications. This hands-on exposure not only builds your software proficiency but also helps you understand real-world applications of technical drawings and standards. Over time, your responsibilities may expand as you demonstrate increased skill and confidence.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cad jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cad jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Cad Apprentice job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,187 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

CAD Administrator

MindSource

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
MindSource is seeking an experienced CAD Administrator to support and maintain a Computer-Aided Dispatch environment for Public Safety operations. The role involves administering CAD systems, supporting dispatch operations, and collaborating with various teams to enhance public safety technologies.
Responsibilities:
• Administer, maintain, and support Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Mobile CAD systems.
• Install, configure, upgrade, and maintain CAD software and related applications.
• Manage and maintain CAD databases, including streets, response locations, subdivisions, GIS mapping layers, and code tables.
• Configure CAD settings, user accounts, vehicle records, and system parameters.
• Monitor system performance and troubleshoot software, hardware, and user access issues.
• Provide Tier 1 and Tier 2 technical support to dispatch personnel and end users.
• Manage user accounts, permissions, and system security.
• Maintain hardware inventory, software licensing, and technical documentation.
• Generate operational, statistical, and management reports.
• Analyze CAD data to identify trends and improve operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with IT, GIS, Police, Fire, EMS, Records Management, and third-party vendors.
• Support integrations between CAD, Mobile CAD, RMS, GIS, GPS, and other public safety applications.
• Develop and maintain CAD administration policies, procedures, and documentation.
• Participate in software upgrades, testing, disaster recovery planning, and security initiatives.
• Provide end-user training and technical documentation as needed.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5+ years of experience administering Public Safety CAD systems
• Experience supporting 911 Emergency Communications
• Experience supporting Police Dispatch
• Experience supporting Fire Dispatch
• Experience supporting EMS Operations
• Experience with Windows-based CAD systems
• Strong knowledge of Mobile CAD functionality
• Experience managing CAD databases and system configuration
• Experience with user administration, security, and permissions
• Knowledge of GIS mapping, CAD mapping layers, and GPS technologies
• Experience with software installation, upgrades, and system deployments
• Strong troubleshooting, documentation, and communication skills
Preferred:
• Experience with TriTech CAD Software (Highly Preferred)
• Experience with Records Management Systems (RMS)
• Experience deploying enterprise software solutions
• Trainer or Instructor experience
• Law Enforcement, Fire, or EMS operational experience
• APCO membership or public safety communications experience
• Experience integrating CAD and Mobile CAD applications
Company:
MindSource has delivered software solutions for over two decades to many hundreds of Silicon Valley companies. Founded in 1994, the company is headquartered in Mountain View, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

Mindsource logo

About Mindsource

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Beginning with a 100 square foot office in Mountain View, Dave Clark and his entrepreneurial partners built a thriving business in four months with their unique technical knowledge and high-touch approach. Our management team immersed themselves in the intricacies of the most technically challenging and sophisticated technical endeavors, requiring the best and brightest minds. Two decades later, we have used our technical savvy to grow our consultancy and to provide top-tier talent in the areas of mobile development, front-end development, and quality assurance. We provide our consultants with engineering job opportunities, QA analyst jobs, IT job opportunities, and many other rewarding careers with Silicon Valley’s top employers. At every step, we made good on our promise to deliver satisfaction, and because of this emerged as the leader in our field. The MindSource staff is a close-knit family of employees; many have been with the company for over a decade. We are motivated by generating and maintaining long-term relationships with both colleagues and clients as we have done for over 20 years. We value working with the best, and continue to do so, over and over again.

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Mountain View, CA, US

Year founded

1994

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