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Entry Level Cad Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA ยท On-site

$40 - $43/hr

SAP / MES systems * CAD tools (Creo, AutoCAD) * Controls engineering / safety systems * Robotics programming (FANUC) Technical / Functional Exposure * Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint - 2+ years

Public Safety Dispatcher

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$57K - $79K/yr

Dispatches police, sheriff, and fire departments in accordance with established policies and procedures; utilizes CAD system to track and monitor the status of responding personnel Answers all non ...

Mechanical Design Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$74K - $101K/yr

Be able to interpret machine designs generated using 2-D CAD methods. * Motivation to contribute to the improvement of engineering procedures. * Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Mechanical Systems Engineer

Three Point Solutions

Ankeny, IA โ€ข On-site

$40 - $45/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Title:         Mechanical Systems Engineer

Client:              Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Location:         Ankeny, IA 50023
Duration:         24 Months (Possible Extension/Conversion)
Shift:                1st Shift (7:00 AM – 3:30 PM)

Description:

• Perform product design, testing, and analysis for mechanical systems projects
• Support product verification, validation, and feasibility testing activities
• Participate in design reviews and provide engineering design solutions
• Analyze manufacturing processes and improve product cost, quality, and performance
• Develop engineering standards, specifications, and technical documentation
• Support change management and continuous improvement activities
• Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, supply management, and engineering teams
• Conduct inspections and support corrective action recommendations
• Provide technical support for production and product development activities
• Work with CAD and engineering systems for design and documentation

Required Skills:

• Mechanical engineering and product design knowledge
• Experience with Creo CAD software
• Experience with PDM/Windchill
• SAP familiarity
• Engineering analysis and problem-solving skills
• Technical documentation and testing experience
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities

Preferred Skills:

• Machinery or heavy equipment experience
• Knowledge of EPDP, ETDP, or ECAP processes
• Manufacturing process improvement experience
• Product validation and verification exposure

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Agricultural Engineering preferred
• Recent graduates are encouraged to apply

Work Experience:

• Mechanical design or product engineering experience preferred
• Internship, co-op, or project experience acceptable for recent graduates

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