Computer Aided Design Associate Jobs in Elmhurst, IL

The Opportunity:
Tetra Tech is adding an experienced Civil/Mechanical CAD Designer to our landfill design and solid waste compliance team based in Naperville, IL.
Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world's most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.
Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential - join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.
Position Summary:
Tetra Tech is a multi-disciplined service firm offering civil engineering, surveying, land use planning, environmental, and other related services. Our firm is currently looking for Civil 3D CAD Designer who will be responsible for preparation of construction plans, working closely with the Professional Engineers, Project Managers, and senior staff members. This position is responsible for providing a full range of drawing production and organization for site civil, piping, and process design. The employee must be able to use computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software, provide engineering drafting/design support for large private solid waste facilities, remediation, private residential, and public municipal projects This is a non-exempt (hourly), full-time position.
Essential Job Functions:
The following duties are considered essential to the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
• Technical Skills
o Use Civil 3D CAD software to develop various civil and mechanical drawings (e.g., layout plans, 3-D piping, P & IDs, construction details).
o Prepare three-dimensional models for use in computations and designs.
o Create and manage alignments, profiles, corridors, surfaces, grading, and pipe networks using Civil 3D.
o Develop construction documents including plan and profile sheets, cross-sections, and details.
o Apply knowledge of engineering standards, codes, and practices to ensure compliant designs.
o Generate and annotate plan sets including notes, legends, and schedules.
o Utilize data shortcuts, reference files, and sheet sets for multi-disciplinary coordination.
o Perform quantity take-offs and material calculations using Civil 3D tools.
o Incorporate survey data, point files, and GIS information into design models.
o Convert markups, sketches, and redlines from engineers into detailed CAD drawings.
• Collaboration and Workflow
o Coordinate with engineers, project managers, and other designers to develop accurate deliverables.
o Review and incorporate client or regulatory agency comments into design documents, and complete finished drawings and graphics for submittals to clients.
o Organize and maintain CAD standards, templates, and layer controls to ensure consistency across projects.
o Manage drawing revisions, updates, and document control processes.
• Problem-Solving and Efficiency
o Identify and resolve drawing and design conflicts through effective communication and CAD techniques.
o Optimize Civil 3D workflows to improve drawing efficiency and accuracy.
o Complete finished drawings and graphics for submittals to clients.
o Check drawings for completeness and accuracy.
Required Qualifications:
• Associate's degree or equivalent.
• 5+ years of experience or training.
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and similar software.
• Good mathematical skills and fundamentals in geometry and trigonometry.
• Working knowledge of supporting software: Word, Excel, Power Point.
• Ability to work in a small office environment and be dependable to all team members.
• Ability to meet project deadlines.
Physical Requirements:
• Regularly required to sit and work at a computer for extended periods; occasional standing and walking within the office environment.
• Occasionally required to lift/move up to 10 lbs, with infrequent lifting of up to 25 lbs.
• Requires use of hands for typing, handling materials, and operating office equipment; vision abilities include close vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• May occasionally travel to field sites (approximately 10-30% of the time), which can involve walking on uneven terrain and slopes up to 2:1 or 3:1 grade.
• When in the field, must be able to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including a respirator if required, and may need to meet medical clearance standards based on assignment.
Work Environment / Environmental Factors:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made.
• Office-based work typically involves low hazard exposure, though noise levels may vary depending on nearby activities or equipment.
• Outdoor conditions for occasional field work may involve exposure to physical and chemical hazards, heat and cold stress, uneven terrain, and other adverse environmental factors; PPE-including hearing protection and respirators-may be required.
• Noise levels differ by assignment, and appropriate hearing protection may be necessary; reasonable accommodations are available to support employees with disabilities.
• Travel between sites or offices may be required, with employees expected to operate vehicles safely under varying weather, traffic, and environmental conditions.
Additional Information:
• Please note that visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
• Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits.
• Merit-based financial rewards.
• Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance.
• Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees.
• Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth.
About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor, and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
Explore our open positions at https://www.tetratech.com/careers. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs