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Entry Level Cad Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

MSI Mold Builders

Mold Designer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MOLD DESIGNERAs a Mold Designer, you will utilize Solid Modeling CAD software (Creo or Solidworks) to create models, drawings, and bill of materials for plastic injection molds ...

MSI Mold Builders

Mold Designer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MOLD DESIGNER As a Mold Designer, you will utilize Solid Modeling CAD software (Creo or Solidworks) to create models, drawings, and bill of materials for plastic injection ...

MSI Mold Builders

Mold Designer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A MOLD DESIGNER As a Mold Designer, you will utilize Solid Modeling CAD software (Creo or Solidworks) to create models, drawings, and bill of materials for plastic injection ...

Palmer Group

Product Design Engineer

Manchester, IA

$70K - $100K/yr

Strong experience with CAD software * 1+ years of experience designing heavy equipment is ideal ... From entry-level positions to professional and executive-level openings, we work with companies of ...

Tri-City Group

BIM/VDC Designer

Des Moines, IA

The BIM/VDC Designer will be responsible for assisting the BIM/VDC Design Manager on the design and layout of new construction projects and working as a team with the Construction Services division.

Tri-City Group

BIM/VDC Designer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

The BIM/VDC Designer will be responsible for assisting the BIM/VDC Design Manager on the design and layout of new construction projects and working as a team with the Construction Services division.

Tri-City Group

BIM/VDC Designer

Davenport, IA · On-site

The BIM/VDC Designer will be responsible for assisting the BIM/VDC Design Manager on the design and layout of new construction projects and working as a team with the Construction Services division.

Tri-City Group

BIM/VDC Designer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

The BIM/VDC Designer will be responsible for assisting the BIM/VDC Design Manager on the design and layout of new construction projects and working as a team with the Construction Services division.

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All JobsCad Designer JobsEntry Level Cad Designer JobsEntry Level Cad Designer Jobs in Iowa

Entry Level Cad Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$29

$39

How much do entry level cad designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cad designer in Iowa is $29.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.38 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level CAD designer?

Entry Level CAD Designers are professionals who use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and plans for products, buildings, or structures. They typically work under the supervision of senior designers or engineers, translating concepts and specifications into detailed blueprints. This role is ideal for individuals who are new to the field and have recently completed relevant education or training. Entry Level CAD Designers often assist with revising designs, preparing documentation, and collaborating with other team members to ensure projects meet standards and deadlines.

What does an entry level CAD designer do?

As an entry-level CAD designer, you perform many of the same duties and responsibilities as CAD designers with more experience, but you learn some duties during on-the-job training. As an entry-level CAD designer, you apply computer-aided drafting skills while learning more about drafting tools like NX, Inventor, and Solidworks. You prepare figures and construction drawings and take blueprints from engineers to reformat them digitally using CAD software. You are also in charge of inspecting designs to make sure that they meet safety specifications. If you notice errors in the design that may compromise quality or safety, you need to make appropriate changes.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level CAD Designer, you need a foundational understanding of drafting principles, spatial reasoning, and a relevant associate degree or technical certification. Proficiency with CAD software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is typically expected, along with familiarity with industry-specific standards. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate design work, efficient collaboration with engineering teams, and successful project outcomes.

What are some typical projects and collaborative tasks an entry level CAD designer can expect to work on?

As an Entry Level CAD Designer, you will likely be involved in creating and modifying technical drawings and blueprints under the guidance of senior designers or engineers. Your daily tasks might include updating existing designs, preparing layouts, and ensuring that drawings meet project specifications and industry standards. Collaboration is key—you'll often work closely with engineers, architects, and other CAD professionals to incorporate feedback and ensure accuracy. This team-based environment helps develop your technical skills while also building strong communication and problem-solving abilities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cad Designer vs Junior CAD Technician?

AspectEntry Level Cad DesignerJunior CAD Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certification in CAD or draftingHigh school diploma; technical training often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, engineering firms, architecture firmsConstruction sites, engineering firms, architectural offices
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in architecture, engineering, product designUsed in construction, civil engineering, infrastructure projects

Both roles involve CAD software use, but Entry Level Cad Designers focus more on creating detailed designs and drawings, while Junior CAD Technicians often assist with drafting and technical support. The roles are similar in industry and credentials but differ slightly in responsibilities and work settings.

How to become an entry level CAD designer with no experience?

To become an entry-level CAD designer with no experience, focus on learning CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks through online tutorials or courses, and build a portfolio of simple projects to demonstrate your skills. Gaining foundational knowledge in drafting, engineering principles, and technical drawing can improve your employability, and obtaining relevant certifications can also enhance your prospects.

Is there a demand for entry level CAD designers?

There is steady demand for entry-level CAD designers across industries such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, especially as companies seek new talent familiar with CAD software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks. Employers often look for candidates with basic technical skills, a relevant portfolio, and the ability to learn quickly, making entry-level positions accessible for recent graduates or those with limited experience.
More about Entry Level Cad Designer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cad Designer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Cad Designer jobs in Iowa are:

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For Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Cad Designer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Cad Designer job openings:

Entry Level Cad Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cad Designer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,950 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Product Design Engineer

Three Point Solutions

Ottumwa, IA • On-site

$40 - $43/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Title:         Product Design Engineer
Client:              Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Location:         Ottumwa, IA 52501
Duration:         24 Months (Possibility of Extension/Conversion)
Shift:                1st Shift (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

Job Summary

Entry-level product engineering role focused on mechanical design support, troubleshooting, and product validation for production lines (Windrower Platform), with strong involvement in design improvements and testing.

Key Responsibilities

• Support mechanical design and troubleshooting for production line
• Evaluate and improve design solutions for cost, quality, and performance
• Execute product validation and verification (V&V) activities
• Analyze engineering requirements and specifications
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, suppliers, manufacturing)
• Document design decisions, analysis, and test results
• Assist in prototype development and implementation of design changes
• Support continuous improvement initiatives

Core Duties

• Mechanical design support (CAD-based)
• Product testing & validation (V&V)
• Troubleshooting production/design issues
• Engineering documentation & reporting
• Cross-functional coordination
• Process and product improvement

Work Environment / Role Nature

• Mix of office (design) and shop-floor support
• Collaboration-heavy engineering team environment
• May require occasional overtime for production support
• Exposure to assembly line and manufacturing processes

Required Skills

• Mechanical design (Creo or similar CAD tools) – 1–2 years
• Problem-solving & troubleshooting – 2+ years
• Engineering fundamentals (design, testing, analysis) – 1–2 years
• Communication & teamwork – 2+ years
• Product testing & validation – 1+ year

Preferred Skills

• Product Verification & Validation (V&V)
• Assembly line processes & documentation

• Weld processes & documentation
• SAP
• Excel & PowerPoint

Technical Exposure Areas

• CAD / Engineering tools – 1–2 years
• Engineering specifications & analysis – 1–2 years
• EPDP / product development lifecycle – 1+ year exposure

Education / Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical / Agricultural Engineering (or equivalent)
• Entry-level to early-career (0–2 years experience)

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