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Computer Aided Design Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

CAD Designer 1

South Holland, IL · On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

Purpose The CAD Designer 1 role creates accurate erection drawings that visually represent EFCO ... Sets clear objectives, aligns efforts, and manages time and resources to achieve results. Working ...

CAD Designer

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$63K - $76K/yr

Company Overview CB&I delivers integrated storage and asset-management solutions that help ... Overview The Plate Structures Designer is responsible for utilizing 2D and/or 3D CAD skills, CB&I ...

CAD Drafter

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$22.25 - $29.75/hr

Road Ranger is looking for an experienced CAD Drafter.This position is responsible for performing ... Prepare drawings for executive management's review and consideration. * Performs other duties as ...

CAD Drafter

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Road Ranger is looking for an experienced CAD Drafter. This position is responsible for performing ... Prepare drawings for executive management's review and consideration. * Performs other duties as ...

CAD Operator-Designer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$58K - $88K/yr

A CAD Mechanical Designer is tasked with creating and modifying technical drawings and developing ... Manages deliverables to meet scope and schedule of projects by monitoring, reviewing, and checking ...

Be Seen First

Perform administrative and management functions related to the generation of shop drawings, create as DXF files for CAD/CAM applications and generate purchase orders. * Store all the drawings in an ...

New

Student Aide - CAD

Cicero, IL · On-site

$15/hr

Provide support for CAD-Faculty facilitating lab for online classes and 3D printing Lab hours. * Assist CAD-Students with using slicer software to prepare models for 3D printing (setting up infill ...

Showing results 41-60

Computer Aided Design Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$102.5K

$122.3K

$141.6K

How much do computer aided design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer aided design manager in Chicago, IL is $122,329.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,300.00 and $131,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a computer aided design manager do?

A Computer Aided Design (CAD) Manager oversees the implementation, maintenance, and optimization of CAD systems within an organization. They are responsible for managing CAD software, developing standards and best practices, training staff, and ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of design processes. CAD Managers also collaborate with engineering and design teams to streamline workflow, resolve technical issues, and facilitate project delivery. Their role is essential for leveraging technology to enhance productivity and maintain quality in design projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computer aided design manager?

To thrive as a Computer Aided Design Manager, you need deep expertise in CAD software, a background in engineering or design, and experience leading design teams. Mastery of tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and project management systems, along with relevant certifications such as Autodesk Certified Professional, is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you manage teams and coordinate effectively across departments. These competencies ensure efficient project delivery, high-quality design standards, and successful team performance in a competitive technical environment.

What are some common challenges faced by computer aided design managers when leading design teams?

Computer Aided Design Managers often navigate challenges such as balancing project deadlines with the need for high-quality design output and ensuring effective collaboration between designers, engineers, and other stakeholders. They must stay updated on evolving CAD software and best practices, while also mentoring team members with varying skill levels. Additionally, managing remote or cross-functional teams and integrating new technologies into existing workflows can require strong communication and change-management skills.

What is the difference between Computer Aided Design Manager vs CAD Technician?

AspectComputer Aided Design ManagerCAD Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, or related field; experience in CAD software managementAssociate's or bachelor's degree; proficiency in CAD software
Work EnvironmentOversees CAD teams, manages projects, collaborates with engineers and architectsPerforms drafting, modeling, and drawing creation under supervision
Industry UsageUsed in engineering, architecture, manufacturing, and construction firmsCommonly employed in similar industries for detailed design work

The main difference is that a Computer Aided Design Manager oversees CAD teams and manages projects, while a CAD Technician focuses on creating detailed drawings and models. The manager has more responsibilities in planning and coordination, whereas the technician specializes in technical drafting tasks.

How much do computer aided design managers make in the US?

Computer Aided Design (CAD) managers in the US typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, with the median salary around $90,000. Salaries vary based on experience, industry, location, and certifications such as Autodesk or SolidWorks proficiency.

Is a computer aided design manager a stressful job?

A computer aided design (CAD) manager often faces stress related to project deadlines, managing design teams, and ensuring accuracy in complex technical drawings. The role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with CAD software, which can contribute to workload pressure during busy periods.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Aided Design jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Computer Aided Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Computer Aided Design Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Computer Aided Design Manager job openings:

CAD Designer 1

South Holland, IL • On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 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 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 be based out of our South Holland, IL location.

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.