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Computer Aided Design Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Survey CAD Technician

Lisle, IL · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Title Survey CAD Technician EOE StatementWe are an equal employment opportunity employer. All ... Description CAGE is a highly respected leader in civil engineering, surveying, and construction ...

CAD/CAM Engineer

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field or related experience * Prior experience of technical sales and support in software and/or machine tool industry highly preferred * CAD/CAM (NX ...

Allen & Shariff is an international MEP engineering firm providing consulting and design services ... The CAD Specialist will complete production work and collaborate with project teams. Attention to ...

Allen & Shariff is an international MEP engineering firm providing consulting and design services ... The CAD Specialist will complete production work and collaborate with project teams. Attention to ...

Allen & Shariff is an international MEP engineering firm providing consulting and design services ... The CAD Specialist will complete production work and collaborate with project teams. Attention to ...

CAD Manager T4

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45 - $60/hr

S. consulting firm, has been providing exceptional careers and quality engineering, planning and ... Our ideal CAD Manager will have a diverse background in the AEC industry, and be a proactive ...

Check CAD drawings as needed to ensure engineering standards are maintained throughout the company. What you should be good at * Minimum of four years product development experience, specifically ...

Check CAD drawings as needed to ensure engineering standards are maintained throughout the company. What you should be good at * Minimum of four years product development experience, specifically ...

Check CAD drawings as needed to ensure engineering standards are maintained throughout the company. What you should be good at * Minimum of four years product development experience, specifically ...

Check CAD drawings as needed to ensure engineering standards are maintained throughout the company. What you should be good at * Minimum of four years product development experience, specifically ...

Check CAD drawings as needed to ensure engineering standards are maintained throughout the company. What you should be good at * Minimum of four years product development experience, specifically ...

Design Engineer

Crete, IL · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Engineered Material Handling Products * TrackRunner Robot * Industries * Automotive & Stamping ... Create CAD solid models of component parts and assemblies used to realize the overall design of ...

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Computer Aided Design Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$18

$52

$75

How much do computer aided design design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for computer aided design design engineer in Chicago, IL is $52.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.38 and $63.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a CAD design engineer do?

A CAD design engineer creates detailed technical drawings and 3D models using computer-aided design software to develop products, components, or systems. They collaborate with engineers and manufacturers to ensure designs meet specifications and standards, often working with tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks and requiring strong technical skills. Their work supports the manufacturing and engineering processes across various industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Computer Aided Design (CAD) Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computer Aided Design (CAD) Design Engineer, you need strong technical drawing skills, a solid understanding of engineering principles, and typically a degree in mechanical, civil, or related engineering fields. Expertise in CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA, along with familiarity with relevant industry standards and certifications, is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help ensure design accuracy and successful collaboration with cross-functional teams. These skills are vital for delivering precise, manufacturable designs that meet project requirements and support efficient product development.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often include bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing that contribute to total compensation.

Is CAD engineer a good career?

A CAD engineer designs and creates technical drawings using computer-aided design software, which is essential in industries like manufacturing, architecture, and engineering. The role offers steady employment opportunities, requires technical skills and certifications, and often involves working with tools like AutoCAD or SolidWorks. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in technical design and problem-solving.

What is a Computer Aided Design (CAD) Design Engineer?

A Computer Aided Design (CAD) Design Engineer is a professional who uses specialized software to create detailed technical drawings and 3D models for products, parts, or structures. These engineers collaborate with other engineering teams to turn conceptual ideas into precise digital designs, which are then used for manufacturing or construction. Their work ensures that designs meet the required specifications, safety standards, and functional needs. CAD Design Engineers are crucial in industries like automotive, aerospace, architecture, and manufacturing.

How does a Computer Aided Design (CAD) Design Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

As a CAD Design Engineer, collaboration with other departments—such as manufacturing, quality assurance, and project management—is an integral part of the job. You’ll frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to ensure that your designs align with manufacturability, cost targets, and regulatory standards. Effective communication is essential, as you’ll often need to translate complex technical drawings into actionable insights for team members with diverse backgrounds. This interdepartmental teamwork not only helps streamline the design-to-production process but also provides valuable learning opportunities for professional growth.

What is the difference between Computer Aided Design Design Engineer vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectComputer Aided Design Design EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering or design, proficiency in CAD softwareRequires engineering degree, often with specialization in mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, engineering firms, manufacturing companiesManufacturing plants, R&D labs, engineering departments
Industry UsageUsed across various industries including automotive, aerospace, product designPrimarily in mechanical systems, machinery, and equipment design

The Computer Aided Design Design Engineer focuses on creating detailed digital models using CAD software, often working closely with product development teams. Mechanical Design Engineers also use CAD but typically have a broader role in designing mechanical systems and components. While both roles require similar technical skills and work environments, their focus areas differ, with CAD Design Engineers emphasizing digital modeling and Mechanical Design Engineers concentrating on mechanical functionality and system integration.

What is AutoCAD salary?

The salary for a Computer Aided Design (CAD) Design Engineer who uses AutoCAD typically ranges from $55,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled users with certifications and experience in 3D modeling or other CAD software may earn higher salaries.
What are popular job titles related to Computer Aided Design Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Computer Aided Design Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Aided Design Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Aided Design Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Computer Aided Design Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Computer Aided Design Design Engineer job openings:
Staff CAD Designer

$32.02 - $41.57/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

About the opportunity

SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Staff CAD Designer to support our growing environmental and energy project portfolio. This position may be based out of our Jacksonville, FL; Pittsburgh, PA; or Chicago, IL offices, with a strong preference for candidates located in either location. Exceptional candidates located elsewhere along the U.S. East Coast will also be considered.

In this role, you will support Project Engineers through AutoCAD Civil 3D drafting and design for a variety of natural resource, ecological restoration, and energy-related projects. Our team offers a collaborative and flexible work environment with opportunities to contribute to meaningful infrastructure and environmental initiatives nationwide.

This is a regular, full-time, hourly position offering competitive benefits and a flexible hybrid work environment. Candidates located within commuting distance of one of our office locations are preferred.


What you will accomplish
  • Support and maintain company-wide CAD standards and drafting best practices
  • Produce CAD deliverables for environmental, ecological restoration, and energy-related projects using AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Develop basic to complex drafting and analytical representations from metadata, datasets, and geodatabases
  • Integrate attributes from multiple data sources, including importing/exporting a wide range of file types
  • Prepare production-quality maps, exhibits, and field support mapping products
  • Utilize feature lines to support site grading and earthwork balance analyses
  • Perform earthwork volume calculations and support site development layouts
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including engineers, GIS specialists, and environmental professionals

Experience and qualifications for success
  • Associate's degree in Geography, Cartography, CADD Drafting, GIS Technology (GIST), Engineering Technology, or a related field with an emphasis in GIS or CAD design; equivalent GIS/CADD certification also considered
  • Minimum of two (2) years of professional experience using CAD/GIS technologies beyond university attendance
  • Demonstrated experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D in a professional setting
  • Experience with GIS platforms such as ArcGIS
  • Familiarity with field data collection, data integration workflows, and troubleshooting digital files/equipment
  • Understanding of grading, earthwork, and civil/site design concepts preferred
  • Prior experience supporting energy, infrastructure, environmental permitting, or restoration projects is a plus
  • Strong attention to detail, organization, and communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and within collaborative project teams

SWCA Environmental Consultants is a growing, 100% employee-owned company that offers a full range of environmental services. Our North Star is to be the best place to work and a leader in sustainability, bringing sound science and creative solutions to global environmental challenges, all while staying true to our commitment to employee ownership. At SWCA, we live our core values every day: we collaborate as #OneSWCA, we're #AlwaysLearning, we #NeverSettle, and we #GiveBack to our communities. With offices across the country, we're proud to be one of the largest environmental compliance firms in the U.S. and to rank among Engineering News-Record's Top 200 Environmental Firms.

SWCA is committed to salary equity and transparency. In alignment with this commitment, we post good faith pay ranges in all job postings. An employee in this Chicago, IL-based position can expect an hourly pay rate of $32.02 to $41.57/hour. Actual pay within this range may depend on experience, qualifications, geographic location, client requirements where applicable, and other factors permitted by law. Regular-status employees are also eligible for performance bonuses. Candidates are also encouraged to consider SWCA's Total Rewards package

( https://www.swca.com/careers/benefits-wellness/), which includes a competitive Benefits package, forward-thinking workplace flexibility, outstanding corporate culture, award-winning career development, and more.

We offer a supportive, team-focused work environment, competitive pay, and great benefits-including a 100% employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) to help you build a strong financial future. At SWCA, we're committed to helping our team members grow into industry leaders. Our award-winning Career Landscape program offers a clear and structured path to meaningful career development. We support your growth through conference attendance, internal and external training, education reimbursement, our Science and Leadership Program, and bonuses for qualifying publications. All regular-status employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, wellness, life, and disability coverage, as well as access to our Employee Assistance Program. Employees may also participate in SWCA's 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust.

SWCA continues to invest in our people. We value the skills and experience of our internal team members and strongly encourage qualified employees to apply for open positions. We believe in promoting from within whenever possible, offering meaningful opportunities for career growth.

Application Deadline: We will begin reviewing applications immediately and schedule interviews with qualified candidates on a rolling basis. The position will remain open until we identify a strong pool of candidates and may close without prior notice. We sincerely appreciate the time and effort of all applicants and will thoughtfully review each submission.

If you need assistance accessing SWCA's website, completing the online application, or require accommodations at any point during the hiring process due to a disability, please contact us at accommodations@swca.com or call 1-480-581-5378. We're committed to providing an inclusive and supportive experience for all candidates. This contact information is specifically for accommodation requests; other inquiries will not receive a response.

EOE - women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. At SWCA Environmental Consultants, we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive work environment. We strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds, including those with diverse experiences and veterans, to apply. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce enhances creativity, innovation, and overall organizational success.

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