1

Cad Design Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer 1

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

Purpose The CAD Designer 1 role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role also supports project ...

CAD Designer 1

Des Moines, IA

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

Purpose The CAD Designer 1 role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role supports project ...

CAD Designer 1

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Purpose The CAD Designer 1 role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role also supports project ...

CAD Designer 1

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Purpose The CAD Designer 1 role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role supports project ...

New

CAD Designer 1

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Purpose The CAD Designer 1 role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role also supports project ...

CAD Designer 1

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Purpose The CAD Designer 1 role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role supports project ...

CAD Specialist I

Cedar Rapids, IA · Remote

$50K - $74K/yr

Works independently on tasks assigned by the Cad Manager. Ability to apply Braun Intertec standards and practices. Ability to effectively communicate with Cad Manager, Project Manager or field ...

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site +1

$22 - $29.50/hr

  • PTO

Develop and prepare detailed CAD drawings from sketches, specifications, and verbal instructions * Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software * Assist in the design and layout of water treatment ...

Student Drafter

Ames, IA · On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

  • PTO

Develop and prepare detailed CAD drawings from sketches, specifications, and verbal instructions * Create 2D and 3D models using CAD software * Assist in the design and layout of water treatment ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Cad Design information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$29

$39

How much do cad design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for cad design in Iowa is $29.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.38 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is CAD design?

CAD design stands for Computer-Aided Design, which involves using specialized software to create precise drawings, technical illustrations, and 3D models for engineering, architecture, and manufacturing. CAD designers use these tools to visualize concepts, test ideas, and create detailed plans that can be used for production or construction. This process helps improve accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration throughout the design and manufacturing stages.

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

To thrive as a CAD Designer, you need a solid understanding of engineering or architectural principles, proficiency in drafting, and typically an associate degree or certification in CAD or a related field. Mastery of CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is essential, along with familiarity with industry-specific standards. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help CAD Designers create precise drawings and collaborate effectively with engineers and clients. These skills ensure that designs meet technical requirements, project specifications, and support efficient project workflows.

What are some common challenges CAD designers face when working on collaborative projects?

CAD Designers often collaborate with engineers, architects, and other stakeholders, which can present challenges such as managing version control, ensuring compatibility between different software platforms, and integrating feedback from multiple sources. Effective communication and meticulous documentation are key to overcoming these hurdles. Many teams use project management tools and cloud-based CAD platforms to streamline collaboration and minimize errors, helping everyone stay aligned on project goals and timelines.

What is the difference between Cad Design vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectCad DesignMechanical Drafter
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or diploma in CAD, engineering, or related fieldsOften requires a diploma or certification in drafting or CAD
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesManufacturing plants, engineering firms, construction sites
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including architecture, engineering, manufacturingPrimarily in mechanical and industrial sectors
Job FocusCreating detailed 3D models and design conceptsPreparing technical drawings and schematics from designs

While both Cad Design and Mechanical Drafters work with technical drawings, Cad Design focuses on creating detailed 3D models and innovative designs, often requiring broader engineering knowledge. Mechanical Drafters primarily prepare technical drawings based on designs, emphasizing precision and adherence to specifications. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much does a CAD design earn?

A CAD designer's salary varies by experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 annually in many regions. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced CAD designers with specialized skills or certifications can earn over $80,000 per year.

Is CAD design a good career?

CAD design 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 and certifications. The field can provide stable employment with potential for advancement and specialization.

What do CAD designers do?

CAD designers create detailed technical drawings and plans using computer-aided design software to develop products, structures, or mechanical components. They collaborate with engineers and architects, ensuring designs meet specifications and standards, often requiring knowledge of CAD tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Their work supports manufacturing, construction, and engineering projects from concept to completion.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Design jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Cad Design jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Cad Design jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Cad Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Cad Design job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,950 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

CAD Designer 1

efcoforms

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$26.25 - $36.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Purpose

The CAD Designer 1 role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO forming systems for use in sales, manufacturing, and field operations. This role also supports project objectives while growing technical expertise in drafting, EFCO equipment, and engineering principles.

Key Responsibilities

Erection Drawings (70%)

  • Create basic erection drawings for standard and custom projects under supervision.
  • Ensure clarity and accuracy by following EFCO procedures, collaborating with engineers, and validating all design details.

Equipment Support (20%)

  • Assist with equipment list setup and adjustments for assigned jobs.
  • Support alignment with project specs and priorities across districts through strong organizational awareness.

Learning and Development (10%)

  • Participate in training programs and mentorship to improve product knowledge and CAD skills.
  • Use creativity to solve design challenges and support ongoing innovation initiatives.

Additional duties may be assigned to meet organizational goals and priorities. Duties and responsibilities, as required by business necessity, may be added, deleted, or changed at any time at the discretion of management, formally or informally, either verbally or in writing, to meet organizational goals and priorities.

 

 

Qualifications

  • Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Drafting coursework preferred.
  • Experience: Construction or engineering experience preferred.
  • Computer Skills: Proficiency in basic CAD software required.
  • Other Requirements:
    • Mechanical aptitude and basic math skills required.
    • Strong organizational and problem-solving ability.

 

 

Core Competencies

  • Technical Skills: Proficiently uses job-specific tools, systems, and procedures to perform tasks effectively.
  • Creativity: Generates innovative ideas and solutions to improve outcomes or processes.
  • Organizational Awareness: Understands the company’s structure, priorities, and how decisions impact the broader business.
  • Professionalism: Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and a respectful approach to all work and interactions. 
  • Direction, Planning, Organization: Sets clear objectives, aligns efforts, and manages time and resources to achieve results.

 

 

Working Arrangement

  • This role will work 100% onsite at our Des Moines, IA headquarters.

Physical Demands

Light: Exerting up to 20 lbs of force occasionally and/or up to 10 lbs. force frequently and/or a negligible amount of force constantly.

To ensure a safe work environment while meeting the physical demands of the job you must be able to perform the following physical and mental tasks with or with or without reasonable accommodation:

  • Balancing - maintaining equilibrium when walking, climbing, crouching, etc.: Constantly
  • Repetitive Motions - Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers: Occasionally
  • Stooping – Bending at the waist: Occasionally
  • Sitting/Standing – Must be able to sit or stand as required for extended periods of time: Frequently
  • Lifting motions or lifting objects up to 20 lbs: Occasionally
  • Walking: Frequently
  • Climbing - Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles etc.: Occasionally
  • Hearing: Frequently
  • Talking: Frequently
  • Capacity to think, concentrate and focus for long periods of time: Frequently
  • Ability to read complex documents in the English language: Frequently
  • Capacity to reason and make sound decisions: Frequently
  • Ability to write complex documents in the English language: Frequently
  • Capacity to express thoughts orally: Frequently
  • Expertise in:
    • Ability to regularly perform all job functions at company office or designated worksite
    • Ability to withstand environmental conditions such as extreme heat or cold, grass, wind, sand, fumes, odors, gases, noises. Etc.