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Cad Designer Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 individual will serve a key function in providing and producing accurate engineering construction ...

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 engineering and drafting templates and tools to produce design deliverables; including drawings and ...

Senior CAD Designer

Carol Stream, IL ยท Hybrid

$105K - $112K/yr

As a Senior Designer, you will be responsible for executing small design projects or supporting complex projects with 3D CAD, dimensioned drawings and schematics, bill of material management, and PCR ...

Senior CAD Designer

Carol Stream, IL ยท On-site

$105K - $112K/yr

As a Senior Designer, you will be responsible for executing small design projects or supporting complex projects with 3D CAD, dimensioned drawings and schematics, bill of material management, and PCR ...

Our Transportation team is seeking a CAD Manager to coordinate with our team of surveyors, engineers, technicians and designers who will be responsible for overseeing the CAD design team, ensuring ...

CAD-GIS Designer

Chicago, IL

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Position Overview The CAD-GIS Designer will support Invenergy's engineering teams by developing engineering drawings, 3D models, and geospatial workflows across thermal generation, transmission, and ...

CAD-GIS Designer

Chicago, IL

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Position Overview The CAD-GIS Designer will support Invenergy's engineering teams by developing engineering drawings, 3D models, and geospatial workflows across thermal generation, transmission, and ...

CAD-GIS Designer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$27.75 - $38.25/hr

Position Overview The CAD-GIS Designer will support Invenergy's engineering teams by developing engineering drawings, 3D models, and geospatial workflows across thermal generation, transmission, and ...

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Cad Designer information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$15

$30

$42

How much do cad designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for cad designer in Elgin, IL is $30.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.67 and $35.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a CAD designer?

A CAD Designer is a professional who uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed technical drawings and plans for products, buildings, machinery, or other structures. They work closely with engineers, architects, and other professionals to translate ideas and specifications into precise digital models. CAD Designers play a crucial role in the design and manufacturing process, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in the creation of blueprints and prototypes. Their work is essential in various industries, including architecture, engineering, automotive, and manufacturing.

What is a CAD designer?

A CAD (computer-aided design) designer, or drafter, is responsible for generating technical drawings via software that will aid in the building or manufacturing of things. As a CAD designer, you may work with architects or civil engineers to design blueprints for things like buildings or bridges. You may work with manufacturers to create precise technical drawings of items to be produced. You may also visit job sites or factories to see how the project is going and make updates as needed. Overall, you help the concepts of your clients become a reality through your digital images and prints.

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

To thrive as a CAD Designer, you need a solid background in drafting principles, geometry, and design, often supported by a degree in engineering, architecture, or a related field. Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, and relevant certifications, are typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure precise project drawings, efficient collaboration, and successful translation of concepts into manufacturable designs.

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

CAD Designers often work as part of multidisciplinary teams, which means they must coordinate closely with engineers, architects, and project managers. A common challenge is ensuring that design files remain compatible and up-to-date across different software platforms and team members. Clear communication and version control are essential to avoid errors or duplicated work. Additionally, balancing creative input with technical specifications and project constraints can be demanding, but it also provides opportunities to learn from colleagues in related fields.

What is the difference between Cad Designer vs Mechanical Drafter?

AspectCad DesignerMechanical Drafter
CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in CAD, Engineering, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical diploma in drafting or engineering technology
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesEngineering departments, manufacturing plants, architectural firms
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including architecture, engineering, manufacturingPrimarily in mechanical engineering and manufacturing sectors
Job FocusCreating detailed CAD models and designs based on specificationsPreparing technical drawings and schematics for mechanical components

While both Cad Designers and Mechanical Drafters work with CAD software, Cad Designers focus on creating detailed models and innovative designs, often involved in the conceptual phase. Mechanical Drafters primarily prepare technical drawings and schematics for manufacturing and assembly. The roles overlap in skills and tools but differ in scope and focus within the engineering and manufacturing industries.

How much does a designer CAD earn?

A CAD designer's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 annually. Skilled CAD designers with certifications and proficiency in software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks can earn higher salaries, especially in engineering, architecture, or manufacturing sectors.

Is a designer CAD a good career?

A career as a CAD designer involves creating detailed technical drawings and models using computer-aided design software, which is essential in industries like engineering, architecture, and manufacturing. It offers opportunities for specialization, requires technical skills, and often involves working with tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. Job prospects depend on industry demand and experience level.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Cad Designer jobs in Elgin, IL?

For Cad Designer jobs in Elgin, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Cad Designer jobs?

Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Cad Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Cad Designer job openings in Elgin, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,146 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

CAD Designer

Langan Engineering

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems, colleges/universities, and large infrastructure programs throughout the U.S. and around the world. Our employees collaborate seamlessly among 50+ offices and gain valuable hands-on experience that fosters career growth. Langan culture is entrepreneurial from advancing innovative technical solutions, to participating in robust training and knowledge sharing, to making progressive change within the communities we live and work.
Consistently ranked among the top ten "Best Firms to Work For" and Engineering News-Record's top 50 firms worldwide, Langan attracts and retains the best talent in the industry. Employees thrive at Langan, a firm that fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment for all; prioritizes wellbeing, health, and safety; encourages volunteerism and philanthropy; offers workplace flexibility, along with carbon-neutral office spaces; and empowers individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions.
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 plans in an efficient and timely manner. In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with top industry leadership in a continuous learning environment.
Job Responsibilities
  • Draft detailed drawings, topographical profiles, and related maps for planning and construction of various engineering projects;
  • Manage workload assigned by CAD Production Manager in a timely and efficient manner;
  • Remain current with the Firm's standards for CAD production and productivity tools to continuously increase efficient use of CAD;
  • Check all plotted drawings for errors or omissions prior to submitting to CAD Production Manager;
  • Communicate project status to CAD Production Manager in timely fashion; and
  • Perform other duties as requested.

Qualifications
  • Associate's degree, certification, or equivalent experience in drafting, civil technology, engineering technology, or a similar area of study;
  • 2+ years of experience using AutoCAD (Civil 3D a plus) on land development projects;
  • Ability to provide an outstanding work product with strong attention to detail;
  • Ability to proactively organize, prioritize, and multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment;
  • Strong commitment to customer service and responsiveness to the Firm's needs;
  • Self-motivated, adaptable, and dependable; and
  • Sound judgment capability.

#LI-AS1
Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help its employees advance their careers and enhance the quality of their lives. Our comprehensive compensation package includes: full-time employment company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and paid pregnancy disability leave; 401(k)/Roth with company match; paid time off including parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses; and educational reimbursement.
Langan offers employee resource groups; flexible work schedules; extensive training; wellness programs; buddy and mentoring programs; and much more!
Langan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. We believe that an inclusive workplace is essential for the well-being and success of our employees.
Certain US jurisdictions require Langan to include an estimate of salary or hourly ranges. The estimated range for this role is: $25 - $35/hour. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as related work experience, location, market conditions, education/training, certifications and other credentials, as well as applicable knowledge and skills. Certain roles may be eligible for overtime and participation in the firm's annual bonus and performance review program. Bonuses are discretionary and based on individual job performance and the profitability of the firm. Employees are also eligible to receive up to 20 days of paid vacation time, 10 days of paid sick time and 10 paid holidays throughout the year. Eligibility and actual paid time off may vary based on local law and factors such as hours worked, related work experience and level.