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Cad Design Drafting Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mechanical Designer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Associate degree, technical diploma, or equivalent practical experience in CAD, drafting, design technology, or a related field. Equivalent professional experience will also be considered.

As a Civil Engineer for our Site Design team, you will provide basic project design through CAD drafting, instruct drafters on how to create drawings of designs, and prepare project schedules. You ...

Product Design Engineer

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Mechanical design support (CAD-based) * Product testing & validation (V&V) * Troubleshooting production/design issues * Engineering documentation & reporting * Cross-functional coordination * Process ...

Product Design Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

The role develops and maintains accurate 2D drawings and 3D CAD models to support design and manufacturing, while collaborating with Sales, Quality, Application Engineering, Process Engineering ...

Product Design Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$104K - $125K/yr

The role develops and maintains accurate 2D drawings and 3D CAD models to support design and manufacturing, while collaborating with Sales, Quality, Application Engineering, Process Engineering ...

Civil CADD Designer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$39.66 - $50.37/hr

Advanced Design and Drafting * Lead the creation of construction drawings for utility and site ... Contribute to enhancing CAD workflows and tools, identifying opportunities for efficiency and ...

Create detailed 3D models, engineering drawings, and manufacturing documentation using CAD software. * Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize designs for fabrication, welding, and assembly ...

Create detailed 3D models and manufacturing drawings using CAD software * Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimize designs for fabrication, welding, and assembly * Evaluate materials (e.g ...

Showing results 41-60

Cad Design Drafting information

What is CAD design drafting?

CAD design drafting involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed technical drawings and plans for products, buildings, machinery, or other structures. Drafters use these digital tools to produce precise diagrams that serve as guides for engineers, architects, and manufacturers. This process enhances accuracy, streamlines modifications, and allows for easy sharing and collaboration. CAD drafters play a critical role in turning design concepts into clear, actionable plans.

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

To thrive as a CAD Design Drafter, you need strong spatial visualization, technical drawing skills, and typically an associate degree or certification in drafting or engineering technology. Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is essential, along with knowledge of industry-specific standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure precise, efficient creation of technical drawings that facilitate successful engineering, manufacturing, and construction projects.

What are some common challenges faced by CAD design drafters when collaborating with engineering teams?

CAD Design Drafters often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex engineering specifications, ensuring accurate communication of design changes, and managing revisions efficiently. Working closely with engineers, they must frequently clarify technical details and adapt their drafts to evolving project requirements. Strong attention to detail and effective communication skills are essential to ensure that the final drawings meet both engineering standards and project timelines.

What is the difference between Cad Design Drafting vs CAD Technician?

AspectCad Design DraftingCAD Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or certificate in drafting or CAD softwareOften requires similar certifications or associate degree in CAD or drafting
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, architectural firmsDesign offices, manufacturing, construction sites
Industry UsageUsed across architecture, engineering, manufacturingCommon in engineering, construction, product design
Job FocusCreating detailed technical drawings and plansPreparing and modifying CAD drawings, ensuring accuracy

Both roles involve CAD software and technical drawing skills, but Cad Design Drafting focuses more on creating detailed plans, while CAD Technicians often handle editing and maintaining CAD files. The roles are closely related and often overlap in work environment and credentials.

Are CAD design drafters in high demand?

CAD design drafters are in steady demand across industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, especially as building and product design rely heavily on computer-aided design software. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as companies seek skilled drafters proficient in tools like AutoCAD and Revit, with a focus on technical accuracy and industry standards.

Is CAD design drafting a good career?

CAD design drafting is a viable career that involves creating detailed technical drawings using computer-aided design software, such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks. It offers opportunities in industries like engineering, architecture, and manufacturing, often requiring technical skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certification or training. The profession can provide stable employment with potential for advancement and specialization.

What are popular job titles related to Cad Design Drafting jobs in Iowa?

For Cad Design Drafting jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cad Design Drafting jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Cad Design Drafting jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Cad Design Drafting job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution.

Mechanical Designer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Mechanical DesignerThis person will be heavily focused on CAD expertise rather than engineering analysis. An engineering degree is not required; candidates with exceptional modeling skills, strong attention to detail, and a genuine enthusiasm for CAD design are encouraged to apply.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Create, modify, and maintain high-quality 3D models and 2D drawings using CAD software.
  • Develop detailed sheet metal models and manufacturing drawings.
  • Support engineering teams across multiple product lines with modeling and design updates.
  • Ensure models and drawings comply with company standards and best practices.
  • Review designs for accuracy, manufacturability, and completeness.
  • Implement engineering change requests and maintain design documentation.
  • Collaborate with engineers, designers, and manufacturing personnel to resolve design issues.
  • Manage multiple projects while maintaining quality and meeting project deadlines.

Required Qualifications
  • Associate degree, technical diploma, or equivalent practical experience in CAD, drafting, design technology, or a related field. Equivalent professional experience will also be considered.
  • Demonstrated expertise creating complex 3D CAD models and detailed engineering drawings.
  • Strong experience with sheet metal modeling.
  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to interpret engineering concepts and manufacturing requirements.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
  • Passion for CAD modeling and continuous improvement.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience using Creo, SolidWorks, Inventor, NX, or similar 3D CAD software.
  • Experience working in a manufacturing or product development environment.
  • Familiarity with Product Data Management (PDM) systems.
  • Experience supporting multiple product lines and engineering teams.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $50,000-$65,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.