ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Inventor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Parkson Corp.

3D CAD Automation Engineer

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Position Summary We are seeking an Autodesk Inventor Software Engineer to design, develop, and implement 3D CAD automation solutions using Autodesk Inventor. This role is responsible for creating ...

PINNACLE

CAD Detailer, Woodridge, IL

Woodridge, IL · On-site +1

Create and revise 2D and 3D drawings using AutoCAD 2024, Rhino, SketchUp, Inventor, SolidWorks * Work with the project team to provide engineering solutions * Ensure that all drawings adhere to ...

LHH US

Mechanical Designer

Hanover Park, IL

$37 - $41/hr

Develop 3D models and 2D drawings using Autodesk Inventor. * Design equipment based on specifications, proposals, and internal standards. * Maintain design libraries and prepare setup sheets to guide ...

LHH US

Mechanical Designer

Hanover Park, IL

$37 - $41/hr

Develop 3D models and 2D drawings using Autodesk Inventor. * Design equipment based on specifications, proposals, and internal standards. * Maintain design libraries and prepare setup sheets to guide ...

Wesco

Drafter

Carol Stream, IL

Designs in Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk AutoCAD to support project sales revenue generated by engineering services. * Reads and interprets customer drawings and professional engineer (PE ...

WESCO International

Drafter

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

Designs in Autodesk Inventor and Autodesk AutoCAD to support project sales revenue generated by engineering services. * Reads and interprets customer drawings and professional engineer (PE ...

Actalent

Mechanical Designer/Drafter

Itasca, IL

$36 - $46/hr

Proficiency with Inventor, though other CAD/CAM experience is also considered. * Strong background in mechanical and machine design. * Experience with product obsolescence and modifications of ...

Aegis Worldwide

Be Seen First

CAD Drafter Designer

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Convert legacy 2D CAD drawings into 3D models using Autodesk Inventor * Maintain and update Bills of Materials (BOMs) and engineering documentation * Manage Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) with ...

Lanco

Chief Engineer- Mi-Jack Products

Hazel Crest, IL · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

Maintain full-machine vehicle architecture and customer requirements in Autodesk Inventor. * Lead new product introduction efforts to ensure engineering specifications, timing, and product quality ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsInventor JobsInventor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Inventor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52.6K

$94.1K

$128.9K

How much do inventor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for inventor in Chicago, IL is $94,109.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much is an inventor for a year?

The annual salary of an inventor varies widely depending on experience, success, and industry, but on average, inventors earn between $50,000 and $100,000 per year. Successful inventors who commercialize their inventions can earn significantly more through royalties and licensing deals. Many inventors also work as consultants or start their own companies, which can impact income levels.

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 jobs do inventors do?

Inventors develop new products, devices, or processes by applying creativity, engineering, and scientific knowledge. They often work in research and development environments, creating prototypes, testing ideas, and patenting their inventions. Some inventors work independently, while others collaborate with companies or research institutions.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

An inventor can potentially earn $10,000 or more per month through successful product development, licensing, or patent sales, often requiring strong creativity, technical skills, and market knowledge. Other high-paying roles without a degree include sales managers, real estate brokers, and certain skilled trades like electricians or plumbers, especially with experience and certifications. Success in these fields depends on skill, reputation, and business acumen rather than formal education alone.

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 jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Inventors can potentially earn over $1,000,000 annually through successful patents, licensing agreements, and product sales, especially if they develop innovative, high-demand products. Achieving this level of income often requires strong technical skills, market understanding, and effective commercialization strategies. Most high-earning inventors build extensive networks and may work independently or with companies to monetize 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inventor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Inventor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Inventor jobs in Chicago, IL? For Inventor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Inventor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Inventor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Inventor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Inventor job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,109 per year, or $45.2 per hour.
3D CAD Automation Engineer

3D CAD Automation Engineer

Parkson Corp.

Vernon Hills, IL • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking an Autodesk Inventor Software Engineer to design, develop, and implement 3D CAD automation solutions using Autodesk Inventor. This role is responsible for creating scalable, robust automation tools that improve design efficiency, standardization, and engineering productivity. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience with the Autodesk Inventor API and/or iLogic, along with strong general programming skills.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop, implement, and maintain 3D CAD automation solutions using Autodesk Inventor
  • Design and program automation workflows to generate, modify, and configure Inventor models, assemblies, and drawings
  • Leverage Autodesk Inventor API and/or iLogic to automate repetitive design tasks and enforce engineering standards
  • Develop custom tools, plug-ins, and utilities to support design automation and product configuration
  • Collaborate with engineering, applications, and product teams to translate design requirements into automated solutions
  • Troubleshoot, debug, and optimize existing Inventor automation scripts and applications
  • Document automation logic, code, and workflows to support long-term maintainability
  • Support deployment, testing, and continuous improvement of CAD automation tools

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field (or equivalent experience)
  • Demonstrated experience developing automation solutions in Autodesk Inventor
  • Strong experience with:
    • Autodesk Inventor API and/or iLogic
    • Visual Basic (VBA or VB.NET) and/or C#
  • Solid understanding of parametric modeling, assemblies, and engineering drawings
  • Ability to write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Preferred / Nice-to-Have Qualifications

  • Experience with product configurators or rule-based design automation
  • Familiarity with PLM/PDM systems (e.g., Autodesk Vault)
  • Experience integrating CAD automation with ERP, databases, or external applications
  • Knowledge of manufacturing processes and engineered-to-order products
  • Experience working in a regulated or industrial manufacturing environment

Key Competencies

  • Self-starter who is not afraid to push or define the new normal.
  • CAD automation and software development
  • Analytical and systems thinking
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Strong communication skills
  • Continuous improvement mindset

Travel:

Ability to travel up to 10% as required in order to assess and support projects

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Parkson Corporation does not sponsor for immigration, including for H-1B, TN, and other non-immigrant visas, for this role.

Benefits include health care (medical, dental, vision) with coverage starting on first day of employment as well as 401(k) with company match and holiday pay.

Parkson Corporation is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Parkson Corporation is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.