ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Cad Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Hendrickson USA, LLC

NX CAD Designer

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

The CAD Designer will: * Interface with the engineering team during product development and design analysis iterations. * Develop suspension components throughout the entire design process.

Langan Engineering

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary Langan is seeking a CAD Designer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL . This individual will serve a key function in providing and producing accurate engineering construction ...

langan

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary Langan is seeking a CAD Designer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL . This individual will serve a key function in providing and producing accurate engineering construction ...

langan

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Job Summary Langan is seeking a CAD Designer to join its collaborative team in Chicago, IL . This individual will serve a key function in providing and producing accurate engineering construction ...

CB&I

CAD Designer

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$63K - $76K/yr

Overview The Plate Structures Designer is responsible for utilizing 2D and/or 3D CAD skills, CB&I engineering and drafting templates and tools to produce design deliverables; including drawings and ...

Actalent

Civil CAD Designer/Drafter

Crown Point, IN

$32.50 - $45/hr

Civil CAD Designer/Drafter A growing civil engineering consulting firm is seeking a Civil CAD Designer to support the design of municipal water and wastewater infrastructure projects. This role works ...

New

efcoforms

CAD Designer 1

South Holland, IL

$25 - $34.50/hr

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 ...

FUEL TECH INC

CAD Operator-Designer

Warrenville, IL · On-site

$58K - $88K/yr

A CAD Mechanical Designer is tasked with creating and modifying technical drawings and developing 2D and 3D models for various process systems under the guidance of a project engineer and associated ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCad Designer JobsEntry Level Cad Designer JobsEntry Level Cad Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Cad Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$32

$43

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

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cad designer in Chicago, IL is $32.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.78 and $36.92 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Cad Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cad Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Cad Designer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,900 per year, or $32.2 per hour.

NX CAD Designer

Hendrickson USA, LLC

Woodridge, IL • On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Hendrickson rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

296th of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

The Truck Commercial Vehicle Systems Group of Hendrickson is looking for a CAD Designer to join our Engineering team in Woodridge, IL.
Hendrickson is looking for a CAD Designer responsible for creating CAD drawings and collaborating with the engineering team throughout the product development and design analysis process.
The CAD Designer will:
  • Interface with the engineering team during product development and design analysis iterations.
  • Develop suspension components throughout the entire design process.
  • Generate suspension/vehicle layouts to determine clearance/interference under varying conditions of load and articulation.
  • Create and revise CAD drawings in compliance with the ASME Y14.5M - 1994 Dimensioning and Tolerancing Standard. Create the solid models that are used for the geometry in those drawings. Follow all procedures for creating, revising, and releasing drawings into the CAD system.
  • Check drawings in compliance with the ASME Y14.5M - 1994 Dimensioning and Tolerancing Standards.
  • Produce tolerance stack studies that 1) ensure proper assembly and function of mating suspension and vehicle components, 2) define the maximum allowable tolerances for manufacturing, and 3) determine the effect of any proposed tolerance changes.
  • Participates in APQP supplier and manufacturing reviews and engineering design review meetings.
  • Generate CAD data that is required for data exchange with internal and external customers. Translate this CAD data to a format that is compatible with their specific system.
  • Support team members in creation of technical publications and customer presentations.
  • Support directing and following up with CAD personnel throughout the drawing release/revision process. Support activities that communicate drawing requirements and resolve drawing issues with other functional departments.
  • Investigate and improve procedures within the Engineering Department. Identify areas of improvement, provide recommendations, and implement solutions using appropriate tools (e.g., databases, spread sheets, etc.).
  • Support the development of new employees through training, ensuring that all CAD processes and procedures will be followed as defined.
  • Design and layout test equipment for lab tests.
  • Other duties as assigned.

The successful candidate will possess:
  • High School Graduate or GED required. Associate degree or certificate of completion in a design/drafting program preferred.
  • 2+ years of experience as a mechanical CAD Designer using a 3D CAD design package. 2-3 years of experience with Unigraphics NX3 or greater.
  • Must be proficient in parametric modeling of components.
  • Must be proficient in creating assemblies using mating conditions/assembly constraints.
  • Design experience with the following manufacturing methods preferred:
    • Casting, forging, weldments, stamping, extrusions.
  • Design experience with the following machining methods preferred:
    • Milling, drilling, tapping, boring, reaming, broaching, turning, forming.
  • Experience/familiarity with the following inspection methods preferred:
    • Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM), Table layout, Functional Gauging.
  • Must be proficient with Windows and PC applications (e.g., Word, Excel, etc.).
  • Must have experience with TeamCenter v.10 or greater.
  • Ability to independently interpret and apply the ASME Y14.5M - 1994 Dimensioning and Tolerancing Standards required.
  • Ability to effectively complete tolerance stack studies required.
  • Ability to effectively translate CAD data (i.e., DXF, IGES, STP) required.
  • Ability to review finite element analysis and identify problem areas, offer, and implement solutions.
  • Ability to work in a self-directed manner.
  • Innovative, Production, Consensual, Attention to Detail, Development & Continual Learning, Listening, Researching Information, Self-Management, Teamwork.

Physical demands of this role:
  • Frequent sitting and working at computer for extended periods of time.
  • Occasional standing and walking on concrete.
  • Occasional climbing stairs and fixed/vertical ladders.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 60lbs.
  • Ability to push/pull carts (minimal 25lbs) and parts (minimal 60lbs).
  • Ability to drive as required.
  • Ability to travel as required.
  • Exposure to R&D lab and manufacturing setting.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
In accordance with applicable pay transparency laws, the salary range for this position is $60,000-100,000 annually depending on experience. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, education, qualifications, and other job-related criteria. This pay range is provided to ensure transparency and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
LIFE AT [H] - Hendrickson Careers
https://www.hendrickson-intl.com/work-for-us

What Hendrickson employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply