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Entry Level Cad Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

In this role, you will use 3D CAD software to develop models, engineering drawings, and bills of materials for plastic injection molds. You will collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams ...

Mechanical Designer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Mechanical Designer This person will be heavily focused on CAD expertise rather than engineering analysis. An engineering degree is not required; candidates with exceptional modeling skills, strong ...

Creation of schematics, mechanical assemblies, and layouts using CAD tools. * Make calculations such as heat flow, FLA, and SCCR. * Spec, select, and test electrical components. * Continue ...

This position utilizes modern CAD automation, engineering systems, and configuration management tools to improve design efficiency, product quality, and manufacturing processes. Essential ...

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 ...

New

Tool & Die

Sheffield, IA · On-site

$25 - $31.50/hr

The Machinist will be responsible for reading sketches, blueprints and CAD specifications, setting up and operating machines and tools, computing sizes and dimensions of tools and dies, and testing ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Cad information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$25

$39

How much do entry level cad jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cad in Iowa is $25.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.86 and $29.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level CAD?

An Entry Level CAD (Computer-Aided Design) job involves using CAD software to create technical drawings, blueprints, and 3D models for engineering, architecture, or manufacturing projects. Professionals in this role assist senior designers and engineers by drafting designs, making modifications, and ensuring accuracy based on project specifications. Strong attention to detail and experience with CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks are essential. This position is a great starting point for a career in design, engineering, or related technical fields.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities for an entry level CAD professional?

As an Entry Level CAD professional, your daily tasks often include creating and modifying technical drawings, assisting with drafting documentation, and collaborating with engineers or architects to update plans based on feedback. You may also be responsible for organizing project files and maintaining accuracy according to specifications and industry standards. The role usually involves a mix of independent computer work and team meetings, where you contribute to project discussions and help resolve design challenges. This provides valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to learn from more senior team members as you grow your skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level CAD position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level CAD (Computer-Aided Design) professional, you need a basic understanding of drafting principles, technical drawing, and familiarity with CAD software, typically supported by a relevant associate degree or coursework. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, and a willingness to learn new software, is highly valued in this role. Attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to collaborate with engineering or architectural teams are important soft skills. These competencies ensure accuracy in design work, effective teamwork, and the ability to support more senior designers or engineers in producing high-quality project drawings.

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

To become an entry-level CAD drafter with no experience, focus on learning CAD software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks through online courses or tutorials. Obtain a relevant diploma or certificate in drafting, engineering, or architecture, and develop basic technical drawing skills to improve employability.

What are entry level CAD job titles?

Entry level CAD job titles typically include CAD Technician, Junior CAD Designer, CAD Drafter, and CAD Operator. These roles involve creating technical drawings and models using CAD software like AutoCAD or SolidWorks, often requiring basic knowledge of engineering or architectural principles. They serve as starting positions for individuals seeking to develop skills in design and drafting within engineering, architecture, or manufacturing environments.

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

The most popular types of Cad jobs in Iowa are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cad job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,474 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Agricultural Equipment Design Engineer - Shell Rock, IA

Unverferth Manufacturing Co. Inc

Shell Rock, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Unverferth Manufacturing rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Principal Functions of the Position:
Development of product to optimum performance standards. Designs may include structural, mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems, from concept through prototype build, testing and production with minimal product development time of new and existing products. Product design work will include creating, as well as maintaining, detailed CAD models, layouts, drawings and product bills of materials through Engineering Change Notices. Will also be responsible for communication, coordination and assistance of other departments, such as Sales, Service, Production, Technical writing, Tooling and Prototype. Additional duties are determination of appropriate tools, controls and processes for testing and manufacturing of designs and other projects as requested by the Engineering Supervisor.
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Develops multiple design solutions and CAD layouts to determine ideal design.
  • Performs engineering calculations required to attain optimum performance expectations.
  • Provides specifications of raw material and components.
  • Prepares accurate, complete and detailed part, weldment and assembly drawings.
  • Manage projects to meet design and time expectations.
  • Engages in the prototyping, testing and tooling processes of product and components.
  • Manages multiple Engineering Change Notices to meet time expectations.
  • Assists Unverferth internal and external customers to ensure project success.
    Secondary Responsibilities:
  • Provides periodic project and documentation support as directed by the Engineering Supervisor.
  • Follows and assists in developing engineering standards and processes.
  • Conducts and participates in reviews of internal designs and Engineering Change Notices
    Physical Demands:
  • Sit for long periods of time.
  • See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
  • See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
  • Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
  • Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
  • Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
  • React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
  • Determine the distance between objects.
  • Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
    Pre- Requisitions:
  • Minimum 3 years of design and manufacturing experience of agricultural equipment. An equivalent experience amount in other equipment types will be considered.
  • Strong experience and knowledge level of a 3-D CAD program. Autodesk Inventor & Vault preferred. Other programs such as Catia, Pro-E, Solid Works or Solid Edge will be considered.
  • Prior design experience using steel fabrication processes and equipment, i.e. saw, plasma, laser, punch, and forming.
  • Prior design experience using machining processes and operations, i.e. lathe, VMC, and HMC.
  • Prior design experience of weldments for hand and robotic welding processes, along with general welding knowledge.
  • Prior experience in design and machining of steel and iron castings is preferred.
  • Prior product development project coordination. Determining and coordinating fabrication, welding process, fixturing and tooling needs for prototyping, and production.
  • Prior experience in designing, operating and using agricultural equipment along with general farming operations.
  • Prior work experience developing and supporting product and design support documentation, i.e., Product Manuals, Department standards.
  • Prior experience designing control systems.
  • Prior experience with ISOBUS systems.
  • Proficiency with written, verbal, presentation, and telephone communications skills
  • Proficiency with Microsoft products including Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, Power Point, etc.

Benefits:
  • $0 Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Premiums
  • Paid Vacation & Sick Time
  • Profit Sharing (up to 15% of wages) and 401(k) retirement plan
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Wellness Program

About Us:
  • Family owned, world class farm equipment manufacturing since 1948
  • Wide variety of agricultural implementations
  • State-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and equipment
  • Focus on quality manufacturing while maintaining a safe and healthy workforce

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