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Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

langan

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL

$25 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

SWCA Environmental Consultants

Staff CAD Designer

Lombard, IL · On-site +1

$32.02 - $41.57/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

About the opportunity SWCA Environmental Consultants is seeking a Staff CAD Designer to support our growing environmental and energy project portfolio. This position may be based out of our ...

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 ...

EFCO Forming and Shoring Solutions

CAD Designer 1

South Holland, IL · On-site

$25 - $34.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Marmon Holdings Inc

Senior CAD Designer

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$105K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Senior Designer, you will be responsible for executing small design projects or supporting complex projects with 3D CAD, dimensioned drawings and schematics, bill of material management, and PCR ...

Marmon

Senior CAD Designer

Carol Stream, IL · Hybrid

$105K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Senior Designer, you will be responsible for executing small design projects or supporting complex projects with 3D CAD, dimensioned drawings and schematics, bill of material management, and PCR ...

Marmon Holdings, Inc.

Senior CAD Designer

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$105K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Senior Designer, you will be responsible for executing small design projects or supporting complex projects with 3D CAD, dimensioned drawings and schematics, bill of material management, and PCR ...

ATLAS ENGINEERING GROUP

CAD MANAGER

Deerfield, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Our Transportation team is seeking a CAD Manager to coordinate with our team of surveyors, engineers, technicians and designers who will be responsible for overseeing the CAD design team, ensuring ...

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All JobsComputer Aided Design Designer JobsFreelance Computer Aided Design Designer JobsFreelance Computer Aided Design Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$15

$49

$136

How much do freelance computer aided design designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance computer aided design designer in Chicago, IL is $49.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $63.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance computer aided design designer?

A Freelance Computer Aided Design (CAD) Designer is an independent professional who uses specialized software to create technical drawings, blueprints, and 3D models for various industries such as architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and product design. Unlike in-house designers, freelancers work on a project-by-project basis for different clients, offering flexibility and a broad range of experience. Their work often includes interpreting client requirements, creating detailed designs, and collaborating remotely with engineers or architects to bring concepts to life. Freelance CAD Designers must be proficient in CAD software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit, and have strong technical and communication skills.

How do freelance computer aided design designers typically manage client expectations and project timelines?

Freelance CAD Designers often juggle multiple projects for various clients, so clear communication and strong organizational skills are essential. They usually set realistic timelines by breaking down the design process into phases and providing clients with regular updates on progress. Managing expectations often involves establishing detailed project scopes at the outset, clarifying revision limits, and using project management tools to track deadlines. This approach helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures smooth collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer vs CAD Technician?

AspectFreelance Computer Aided Design DesignerCAD Technician
CredentialsTypically requires CAD software proficiency, portfolio, sometimes certificationsOften requires technical diploma or certification in CAD software
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote or client-site work, project-basedUsually employed by companies, working in office or on-site
Industry UsageFreelance, consulting, architecture, engineering, product designConstruction, manufacturing, engineering firms
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance CAD services or project-based workSeeking in-house or employed CAD support roles

Freelance Computer Aided Design Designers typically work independently on various projects, requiring strong software skills and a portfolio. CAD Technicians are usually employed by organizations, focusing on technical drafting and support within specific industries. Both roles require CAD proficiency but differ in employment status and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance computer aided design designer?

To thrive as a Freelance Computer Aided Design (CAD) Designer, you need a solid understanding of engineering or architectural principles, proficiency in CAD software, and typically a degree or certification in design or a related field. Expertise in industry-standard tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Revit is crucial, along with familiarity with file management and rendering systems. Strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help you effectively collaborate with clients and deliver projects on schedule. These competencies ensure high-quality, accurate designs and reliable service, which are vital for client satisfaction and business growth.

What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Aided Design Designer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Computer Aided Design Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer job openings:

Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Computer Aided Design Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,222 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

CAD Designer

langan

Chicago, IL

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Langan rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 447 rated engineering

Job description

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems, colleges/universities, and large infrastructure programs throughout the U.S. and around the world. Our employees collaborate seamlessly among 50+ offices and gain valuable hands-on experience that fosters career growth. Langan culture is entrepreneurial from advancing innovative technical solutions, to participating in robust training and knowledge sharing, to making progressive change within the communities we live and work.

Consistently ranked among the top ten "Best Firms to Work For" and Engineering News-Record's top 50 firms worldwide, Langan attracts and retains the best talent in the industry. Employees thrive at Langan, a firm that fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment for all; prioritizes wellbeing, health, and safety; encourages volunteerism and philanthropy; offers workplace flexibility, along with carbon-neutral office spaces; and empowers individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions.

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 plans in an efficient and timely manner.  In this role, you will have the opportunity to work with top industry leadership in a continuous learning environment.

Job Responsibilities
  • Draft detailed drawings, topographical profiles, and related maps for planning and construction of various engineering projects;
  • Manage workload assigned by CAD Production Manager in a timely and efficient manner;
  • Remain current with the Firm's standards for CAD production and productivity tools to continuously increase efficient use of CAD;
  • Check all plotted drawings for errors or omissions prior to submitting to CAD Production Manager;
  • Communicate project status to CAD Production Manager in timely fashion; and
  • Perform other duties as requested.
Qualifications
  • Associate's degree, certification, or equivalent experience in drafting, civil technology, engineering technology, or a similar area of study;
  • 2+ years of experience using AutoCAD (Civil 3D a plus) on land development projects;
  • Ability to provide an outstanding work product with strong attention to detail;
  • Ability to proactively organize, prioritize, and multitask effectively in a fast-paced environment;
  • Strong commitment to customer service and responsiveness to the Firm's needs;
  • Self-motivated, adaptable, and dependable; and
  • Sound judgment capability.

#LI-AS1

Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help its employees advance their careers and enhance the quality of their lives. Our comprehensive compensation package includes: full-time employment company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and paid pregnancy disability leave; 401(k)/Roth with company match; paid time off including parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses; and educational reimbursement.

Langan offers employee resource groups; flexible work schedules; extensive training; wellness programs; buddy and mentoring programs; and much more!

Langan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. We believe that an inclusive workplace is essential for the well-being and success of our employees.

Certain US jurisdictions require Langan to include an estimate of salary or hourly ranges. The estimated range for this role is: $25 - $35/hour. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as related work experience, location, market conditions, education/training, certifications and other credentials, as well as applicable knowledge and skills. Certain roles may be eligible for overtime and participation in the firm's annual bonus and performance review program. Bonuses are discretionary and based on individual job performance and the profitability of the firm. Employees are also eligible to receive up to 20 days of paid vacation time, 10 days of paid sick time and 10 paid holidays throughout the year. Eligibility and actual paid time off may vary based on local law and factors such as hours worked, related work experience and level.

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