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Inventor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

PSG Global Solutions

Electrical Detailer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Microstation, AutoCAD Inventor, Bentley Substation and 3D Design Requirements: * Associate's or Bachelor's degree in drafting technology. * Minimum of 8 years previous drafting experience. * Related ...

Quanta Services

Designer - Substation

Chicago, IL

$69K - $125K/yr

Proficiency with CAD platforms--including AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Map 3D, Inventor, and Substation Design Suite (SDS) for Physical and/or P&C applications--is preferred. The Designer ...

Stantec

Senior Mechanical Designer - US

Chicago, IL · On-site

You will convey electrical, mechanical, civil, and structural requirements to the team through traditional 2D paper deliverables and/or 3D models (Revit, Plant 3D, Inventor, Navisworks, Autodesk ...

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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 Substation Physical Designer 3 - Grid

3D Substation Physical Designer 3 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • On-site

$68K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 hours ago

Job description

Description
This position allows for a hybrid work schedule with a mix of work spent in office and working remote from home.
  • Collaborate with engineers and a senior designer to produce a high and or extra high voltage substation design. Using SDS to prepare a 3D Model that would generate the following drawing: General Arrangement, Electrical Equipment Plans, Sections, Electrical Connection Details, Foundation Plans, Grounding Plans, Grounding Details, Conduit and Trench Plans, Conduit Details, Control Building Layout, Control Building Details, Bills of Material, Cable Schedules, and a Shielding Plan. Using Inventor, AutoCAD, P4A and SDS software.
  • Interpret and incorporate vendor information into design deliverables.
  • Conduct walkdowns at client substation facilities.

Qualifications
We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.
Education/Experience Requirements:
  • An Associate's Degree in Drafting, and/or a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering Technology, and/or a high school diploma and 2 or more years of 3D drafting course work or equivalent technical experience.
  • A minimum of 8 years preparing 3D substation models and physical design experience.
  • Proficient with working in 3D using AutoCAD, Inventor, P4A, Vault Pro and SDS.
  • Ability to visualize in 3D, layout substation equipment based on a clients and or IEEE standards.
  • Able to follow a CAD standard.

Valued Knowledge/Skills:
  • An Associate's Degree in Computer Aided Design.
  • Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
  • Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology, including the ability to relate various equipment to a technical design.
  • Able to use BlueBeam to create a BOM count, review and self-check drawings.
  • Knowledge using AutoCAD Electrical.

Award-Winning Benefits
At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

Compensation Range
$68,325 - $104,385
Transparency Statement
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.
Awards & Recognition
Equal Opportunity
Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.
Sargent & Lundy logo

About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media

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