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Inventor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Draws structural, mechanical and engineering details of equipment, structures, and more using Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Vault Professional. * Utilizes engineering handbook, design manuals, other ...

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Draws structural, mechanical and engineering details of equipment, structures, and more using Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk Vault Professional. * Utilizes engineering handbook, design manuals, other ...

Sr. Design Engineer

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

... Inventor. · Finite Element Analysis Experience. · GD&T experience. · Cost reduction, Continuous Improvement, Process Improvement and Cost Analysis Experience and/or training would be beneficial ...

Maintain a basic working knowledge of Crystal Group's mechanical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Inventor) for efficient conversion of technical requirements into schematic diagrams and assembly ...

Maintain advanced working knowledge of Crystal Group's mechanical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Inventor) for efficient conversion of technical requirements into schematic diagrams and assembly ...

Maintain advanced working knowledge of Crystal Group's mechanical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Inventor) for efficient conversion of technical requirements into schematic diagrams and assembly ...

Maintain a basic working knowledge of Crystal Group's mechanical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Inventor) for efficient conversion of technical requirements into schematic diagrams and assembly ...

Maintain a basic working knowledge of Crystal Group's mechanical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Inventor) for efficient conversion of technical requirements into schematic diagrams and assembly ...

Maintain advanced working knowledge of Crystal Group's mechanical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Inventor) for efficient conversion of technical requirements into schematic diagrams and assembly ...

CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar). * Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, tolerancing, and technical drawing standards (GD&T experience ...

Hawarden CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar). * Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, tolerancing, and technical drawing standards (GD&T experience ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Maintain advanced working knowledge of Crystal Group's mechanical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Inventor) for efficient conversion of technical requirements into schematic diagrams and assembly ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$103K - $137K/yr

Maintain advanced working knowledge of Crystal Group's mechanical design tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Inventor) for efficient conversion of technical requirements into schematic diagrams and assembly ...

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Inventor information

See Iowa salary details

$47.9K

$85.7K

$117.4K

How much do inventor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for inventor in Iowa is $85,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $93,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is an Inventor for a year?

An inventor's annual income varies widely depending on factors such as experience, success of inventions, and whether they work independently or for a company. On average, inventors may earn from $50,000 to over $100,000 per year, with successful patent holders potentially earning more through licensing or royalties. Many inventors also supplement income through consulting, product development, or related activities.

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

To thrive as an Inventor, you need a strong foundation in creative problem-solving, engineering or scientific knowledge, and a solid grasp of research and development processes. Familiarity with CAD software, prototyping tools, and intellectual property regulations—such as experience filing patents—are commonly required. Persistence, curiosity, and effective collaboration are key soft skills for turning ideas into viable products or solutions. These skills and qualities are crucial for navigating complex challenges and bringing innovative concepts to market.

What job is an Inventor?

An inventor is a professional who creates new devices, processes, or products through innovation and technical skills. They often work in research and development environments, utilizing tools like CAD software and prototypes, and may seek patents for their inventions.

What can you do with Inventor?

An Inventor is a professional who designs, develops, and tests new inventions or products. They use skills in engineering, prototyping, and CAD software like Autodesk Inventor to create detailed models and technical drawings, often working in research, development, or manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges inventors face, and how can they overcome them?

Inventors often face challenges such as securing funding for prototypes, protecting intellectual property, and navigating the process of bringing a new idea to market. Collaborating with legal experts, business advisors, and product development teams can help address these obstacles by ensuring proper patent filings and solid business strategies. It’s also important to continuously refine and test prototypes to improve functionality and appeal to potential investors or partners. With persistence and a strong support network, inventors can transform innovative concepts into successful products.

What job invents things?

An inventor is a person who creates new devices, processes, or products through innovation and problem-solving. Inventors often work in research and development environments, use tools like CAD software, and may seek patents to protect their inventions.

What does an Inventor do?

An Inventor creates new devices, processes, or products by developing innovative ideas and turning them into tangible solutions. They often conduct research, design prototypes, and test their concepts to improve functionality. Inventors work in various fields, including technology, medicine, and engineering, and may seek patents to protect their creations. Many work independently, while others collaborate with companies or research organizations. Their goal is to solve problems and contribute to advancements in their industry.

Infographic showing various Inventor job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,739 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Production Coordinator/CAD Drafter

JE Adams Industries

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$22 - $29.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Join an Employee-Owned Company Where Your Work Matters:

J.E. Adams Industries has been designing and manufacturing innovative car wash equipment, high-pressure systems, and misting solutions for over 50 years. As a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) company, every employee shares in our success while helping build quality products used around the world.

Why Work at J.E. Adams

  • 100% Employee-Owned (ESOP) Build retirement wealth through company ownership.
  • Competitive pay and comprehensive benefits including:
    • Profit sharing and 401(k).
    • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
    • Paid vacation
  • Stable manufacturing company with over 50 years of success.

Job Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented and self-motivated Production Coordinator/CAD Drafter to join our team. In this hands-on role, you will be responsible for the entry and verification of labor hours and production completions, creating and maintaining bills of materials (BOMs) and manufacturing routings in our ERP system, Sage. You
will also assist the engineering team with 2D and 3D design work using AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor.


This role combines production support (60%) with CAD drafting (40%), making it ideal for someone who enjoys both manufacturing operations and engineering design.


The ideal candidate is highly organized, proactive, and a strong communicator with the ability to collaborate with engineers, factory staff, and suppliers.

Responsibilities

  • Enter and verify daily labor transactions and work-in-process (WIP) completions.
  • Maintain and organize bills of materials (BOMs), routings, and technical documentation.
  • Assist engineers with drafting and design, including creating and modifying 2D and 3D models.
  • Generate and update technical drawings, schematics, and blueprints using AutoCAD and Inventor.
  • Collaborate with engineers and supervisors to estimate production times, resolve discrepancies, and assist with costing new products.
  • Work closely with factory staff, sales teams, vendors, and customers to ensure design accuracy and manufacturability.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum qualifications

  • Two-year applicable degree and/or equivalent work experience.
  • Proficiency in reading, interpreting, and creating blueprints, schematics, and BOMs.
  • Exposure to AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor or other 3D CAD software.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Highly organized with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.
  • Ability to collaborate with team members while also completing tasks independently.

Preferred Experiences and Abilities

  • Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
  • Background in part routing and processing time estimation.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Inventor or other 3D CAD software.
  • Experience creating and updating user manuals or installation guides.
  • Familiarity with conducting time-studies.
  • Experience with OSHA compliance.

What We Offer:

  • Opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals while gaining experience in product design, manufacturing processes, ERP systems, and continuous improvement.
  • Competitive salary and benefits package.
  • A collaborative, innovative work environment.
  • Opportunities for on-the-job training, professional development, and continuing education.

Next Steps

  • Submit your Resume to jobs@jeadams.com, with the Subject Production Coordinator/CAD Drafter
    • Alternatively, resumes can be mailed to or dropped off at JE Adams Industries, 1025 63 rd Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
  • A background check, drug screen, and pre-employment physical are required.

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