Patent Agent
Tremont, IL · On-site
Draft, file, and prosecute U.S. patent applications. Conduct detailed interviews with inventors to ... Experience preparing or prosecuting patent applications (internship, coop, or entrylevel experience ...
Patent Agent
Tremont, IL · On-site
Draft, file, and prosecute U.S. patent applications. Conduct detailed interviews with inventors to ... Experience preparing or prosecuting patent applications (internship, coop, or entrylevel experience ...
Entry Level Drafter information
See Normal, IL salary details
$15.04 - $16.26
4% of jobs
$16.26 - $17.48
8% of jobs
$17.48 - $18.69
11% of jobs
$18.93 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$18.69 - $19.91
9% of jobs
$19.91 - $21.13
12% of jobs
The median wage is $21.74 / hr.
$21.13 - $22.35
12% of jobs
$22.35 - $23.57
14% of jobs
$24.15 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$23.57 - $24.78
12% of jobs
$24.78 - $26
8% of jobs
$26 - $27.22
5% of jobs
$27.22 - $28.44
5% of jobs
$15
$21
$28
How much do entry level drafter jobs pay per hour?
As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level drafter in Normal, IL is $21.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $24.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is the difference between Entry Level Drafter vs Junior CAD Technician?
| Aspect | Entry Level Drafter | Junior CAD Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | High school diploma, basic CAD training | High school diploma, CAD certification or training |
| Work Environment | Architectural, engineering, manufacturing firms | Engineering, construction, manufacturing companies |
| Industry Usage | Commonly used in design and drafting roles | Often used interchangeably with Entry Level Drafter in technical settings |
Both roles involve CAD software use and basic drafting tasks, but Junior CAD Technicians typically have more specialized training or certifications. Entry Level Drafters focus on learning drafting standards, while Junior CAD Technicians may assist with more complex projects. Both positions serve as stepping stones into technical careers in design and engineering industries.
What is an Entry Level Drafter?
An Entry Level Drafter is a professional who uses computer-aided design (CAD) software or manual drafting techniques to create technical drawings and plans used in construction, manufacturing, architecture, or engineering projects. They work under the supervision of senior drafters or engineers to produce detailed layouts, diagrams, and schematics based on specifications and sketches. Entry level drafters are often responsible for making revisions, ensuring drawings comply with industry standards, and assisting with documentation. This role is ideal for individuals starting their careers in drafting and design, usually requiring a certificate or associate degree in drafting or a related field.
What Does an Entry-Level Drafter Do?
An entry-level drafter uses computer programs such as CAD and AutoCAD to create scale drawings for construction projects or product manufacturing. In this job, your duties include using engineering plans to create diagrams that builders and manufacturers will then apply to their construction or production projects. You may also work on very detailed designs, such as an electronic switchboard. Your responsibilities also include incorporating the designs of the architect, if applicable, and information about all necessary codes and regulations. An entry-level drafter may work on one aspect of the drawings under the direction of a manager.
What types of projects and tasks can an Entry Level Drafter expect to work on in their first year?
As an Entry Level Drafter, you can expect to assist with creating technical drawings and plans under the guidance of senior drafters or engineers. Your daily tasks will likely include updating existing blueprints, converting sketches into digital formats using CAD software, and ensuring drawings meet project specifications and standards. You'll also collaborate closely with design teams and may attend project meetings to understand requirements. This hands-on exposure helps you build practical skills and provides a foundation for more complex drafting responsibilities as you gain experience.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Drafter, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Entry Level Drafter, you need a basic understanding of drafting principles, technical drawing, and proficiency in mathematics, often supported by an associate degree or certification in drafting or a related field. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks is typically required. Attention to detail, good communication, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for producing accurate technical drawings that serve as the foundation for engineering and construction projects.
More about Entry Level Drafter jobs
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Drafter jobs in Normal, IL? For Entry Level Drafter jobs in Normal, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Drafter jobs in Normal, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Drafter jobs in Normal, IL are:
What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Entry Level Drafter jobs? Cities near Normal, IL with the most Entry Level Drafter job openings:
Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 4 days ago
AGCO rating
8.8
Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
38th of 430 rated machine equipment manufacturers
Job description
Not everyone can claim to feed the world, but it is part of our every day. Behind everything we do for our farmers, there is one AGCO team making it happen. We are proud to put our curiosity into work, building a better and more sustainable world. Join our extraordinary team today!
The Patent Agent supports the protection of the company's intellectual property by preparing, filing, and prosecuting patent applications and assisting with strategic IP portfolio management. This role partners closely with engineering, R&D, legal, and product teams to evaluate inventions, conduct prior art searches, and ensure timely and accurate patent submissions. The Patent Agent helps safeguard innovation and enable business growth through strong IP positioning.
Your Impact
Patent Preparation & Prosecution
Draft, file, and prosecute U.S. patent applications. Conduct detailed interviews with inventors to understand technical concepts and capture invention disclosures accurately.
Prepare responses to USPTO office actions, ensuring alignment with legal strategy and timelines. Provide input to foreign agents regarding suggested responses to foreign office actions.
Prior Art Research & Analysis
Perform prior art searches to support patentability assessments. Evaluate the invention of disclosures and provide recommendations regarding novelty and claim scope.
Communicate findings to responsible attorneys.
Compliance & Documentation
Maintain accurate records of filings, deadlines, and office actions. Ensure compliance with U.S. patent law and internal drafting and filing policies.
Your Experience and Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in engineering, Science, or related technical field (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Computer Science).
Registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) as a Patent Agent.
Experience preparing or prosecuting patent applications (internship, coop, or entrylevel experience acceptable).
Strong analytical, technical writing, and communication skills.
Ability to understand complex inventions and translate them into clear patent documentation.
Preferred
Experience in agriculture, manufacturing, machinery, automotive, or related technology fields.
Your Benefits
Health care and wellness plans
Dental and vision plans
401(k) Savings Plan with company match
Employee Stock Purchase Plan offering eligible employees the ability to purchase AGCO stock at a discounted price
Paid holidays and paid time off
Health savings and flexible spending accounts
Reimbursement for continuing education
Life insurance and other supplemental insurance plans
Your Workplace
This role follows AGCO's on-site work model, with employees primarily working from an AGCO location (USA Hesston, Tremont, or Duluth) with a minimum of 4 days per week to support collaboration and teamwork.
We value inclusion and recognize the innovation a diverse workforce delivers to our farmers. Through our recruitment efforts, we are committed to building a team that includes a variety of experiences, backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives.
Join us as we bring agriculture into the future and apply now!
AGCO is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.
About AGCO
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
AGCO is a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of agricultural equipment with a dynamic portfolio of exciting brands such as Fendt, Massey Ferguson, and Gleaner which deliver innovative and efficient solutions to farmers in North America through a comprehensive product line-up and smart farming software solutions.
Industry
Manufacturing
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Duluth, GA, US
Year founded
1990