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Entry Level Autocad Drafting Jobs in Chicago, IL

Quanta Services

Drafter - Substation

Chicago, IL

$50K - $72K/yr

Thorough knowledge of CAD standards, material, and AutoCAD software will be required. This position ... Associates degree in Drafting & Design or equivalent certification is preferred. * Experience in ...

Cage Engineering

Survey CAD Technician

Lisle, IL · On-site

Support project teams with drafting and design tasks for land development and surveying projects ... Exposure to AutoCAD or other CAD software through coursework, internships, or previous experience ...

Cage Engineering Inc

Survey CAD Technician

Lisle, IL · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Support project teams with drafting and design tasks for land development and surveying projects ... Exposure to AutoCAD or other CAD software through coursework, internships, or previous experience ...

All JobsAutocad Drafting JobsEntry Level Autocad Drafting JobsEntry Level Autocad Drafting Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Autocad Drafting information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$23

$29

How much do entry level autocad drafting jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level autocad drafting in Chicago, IL is $23.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $25.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level AutoCAD drafter?

An entry level AutoCAD drafting job involves using AutoCAD software to create technical drawings and plans for various engineering, architectural, or manufacturing projects. Individuals in this role typically assist senior drafters or engineers by preparing detailed layouts, diagrams, and schematics based on rough sketches or specifications. Responsibilities may include updating existing drawings, making corrections, and ensuring drawings comply with industry standards. These roles are ideal for recent graduates or those new to the field looking to gain practical experience and develop their drafting skills.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level AutoCAD drafter?

To thrive as an Entry Level AutoCAD Drafter, you need a basic understanding of drafting principles, strong spatial visualization, and proficiency in AutoCAD software, often supported by a certificate or associate degree in drafting or a related field. Familiarity with industry-specific standards, CAD file management systems, and sometimes other design tools like Revit or SolidWorks is important. Attention to detail, time management, and effective communication help you interpret project requirements and collaborate with engineers and architects. These skills ensure accurate technical drawings, efficient workflow, and successful integration of design intent into real-world projects.

What are common challenges faced by entry level AutoCAD drafters and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level AutoCAD drafters often face challenges such as interpreting complex design specifications, adapting to varying drafting standards across projects, and managing revisions efficiently. To overcome these, it's helpful to communicate regularly with senior drafters and engineers, seek feedback on your drawings, and become familiar with company-specific CAD templates and layer conventions. Staying organized and proactive in learning new features of AutoCAD will also make it easier to handle revisions and meet project deadlines. Collaboration and continuous learning are key to building confidence and competence in this role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Autocad Drafting vs Junior Civil Drafter?

AspectEntry Level Autocad DraftingJunior Civil Drafter
CredentialsBasic AutoCAD training, high school diploma or equivalentAutoCAD skills, some civil engineering coursework or diploma
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, architectural offices, construction companiesCivil engineering firms, construction sites, consulting agencies
Industry UsageCommonly used in architecture, interior design, and constructionPrimarily used in civil engineering, infrastructure projects
Job FocusCreating technical drawings, drafting plans under supervisionAssisting in civil design, drafting site plans, and infrastructure layouts

While both roles involve AutoCAD skills and drafting, Entry Level Autocad Drafters focus on general design drawings across various industries, whereas Junior Civil Drafters specialize in civil engineering projects like roads and utilities. The latter often requires some civil coursework and works specifically within civil engineering teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Autocad Drafting jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Autocad Drafting jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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For Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level Autocad Drafting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Autocad Drafting job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,162 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Entry Level Drafter

L2x Talent Solutions

Lombard, IL • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

-Design, draft, and timely deliver drawings for products.

-Use Computer Aided Design (CAD) software to convert designs, sketches, ideas, and descriptions into technical drawings.

-Read and understand specifications, mechanical drawings, blueprints, and sketches.

-Use production software to record drafting time for each order

-Specify dimensions, materials, and procedures.

-Understand materials strengths and specify material gauges on drawings.

-Understand and be able to explain design concepts with other designer/drafters.

-Effectively communicate and share information with colleagues as part of the design process


Qualifications:

-Associate's degree in mechanical engineering, cad or related field

-Experience with AutoCAD, Inventor or SolidWorks

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