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Inventor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Designer - Substation

Chicago, IL · On-site

$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 ...

Proficiency in CAD software such as SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, or AutoCAD . * Preferred Skills * Experience designing robotic foundry, casting, metal processing, or material handling equipment

Manufacturing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $96K/yr

What you would do Design fixtures and production equipment in Autodesk Inventor -- strong SolidWorks users are welcome to apply Own production routers and BOM documents through the ERP transition ...

Design fixtures and production equipment in Autodesk Inventor -- strong SolidWorks users are welcome to apply * Own production routers and BOM documents through the ERP transition * Lead APQP on new ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $115K/yr

What you would doDesign fixtures and production equipment in Autodesk Inventor -- strong SolidWorks users are welcome to applyOwn production routers and BOM documents through the ERP transitionLead ...

Extensive hands-on experience with Autodesk Fusion 360 and other parametric CAD platforms such as SolidWorks, Inventor, or FreeCAD. * Practical application of GD&T (ASME Y14.5 or equivalent) in real ...

Showing results 41-60

Inventor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$52.6K

$94.1K

$128.9K

How much do inventor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 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.

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 key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an inventor, 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 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 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. Their work often involves collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving to bring ideas to life.

What jobs do inventors have?

Inventors typically work in research and development roles, creating new products, technologies, or processes. They often collaborate with engineers, designers, and manufacturers, and may work in industries such as technology, healthcare, or consumer goods. Successful inventors may also pursue licensing, patenting, or starting their own companies to commercialize their inventions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Inventor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Inventor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Inventor job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,109 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Designer - Substation

Chicago, IL • On-site

Quanta Infrastructure Solutions Group, LLC
Construction • 51 - 200 employees

$69K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

About Us

QISG leverages Quanta's comprehensive resources to deliver collaborative solutions for our partners' energy infrastructure needs. We use in-house talent, expertise and resources to plan, design, engineer, manage, conduct maintenance on and construct projects.

Our turnkey service capabilities provide our customers with efficiency, consistency, attention to detail and safe execution. The QISG team brings together Engineering, Safety, Quality, Material Procurement, QA/QC, Right-of-Way Acquisition, Scheduling, Environmental Planning, Permitting, Title and Land Management expertise that ensure outstanding results for our clients.

About this Role

Every moment of every day, people all over the world rely on electricity provided by Quanta Services and its customers. With its highly skilled and innovative workforce, Quanta is the largest specialty contractor in North America that powers modern life. Find your future with us by being a part of something bigger - leading the energy transition in building a better world for generations to come.

We encourage and inspire our people to embrace opportunities within our corporate office and 200 operating companies providing solutions for the utility, renewable energy, electric power, industrial, and communications industries worldwide.

Quanta's culture is about creating an environment where all employees can be themselves, are valued, and have an equal opportunity to succeed. When you join our team, you join a dynamic culture in which career development is encouraged, excellence is rewarded, and diversity is valued.

What You'll Do

The Designer - Substation is responsible for supporting substation design projects across the QISG platform by performing routine 2D/3D Physical and/or Protection & Control (P&C) design tasks. This role requires working knowledge of basic design techniques and industry procedures, with an emphasis on accuracy, standards compliance, and CAD proficiency.

Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong familiarity with substation materials, construction methods, and utility design standards. 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 will work under the direction of a Lead Designer and collaborate closely with engineers and drafting teams to develop and maintain quality drawing packages for both internal and client-facing deliverables.

  • Work on design aspects from project inception to completion on various substation projects.
  • Utilize 3D and/or smart design software for substation design.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of quality control procedures to ensure the highest standards of workmanship.
  • Take personal responsibility for the quality and accuracy of his/her work. 
  • Research information in catalogs, specifications, corporate standards, or other reference material.
  • Learn and properly use the document management system and suggest improvements.
  • Learn and apply corporate standard engineering practices.
  • Bring potential project-related problems and possible solutions to the attention of the stakeholders.
  • Travel out of town for short periods of time as required by projects and assignments.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
What You'll Bring
  • Associates degree in Drafting & Design or equivalent certification is preferred. A 4-year Eng Tech degree is a plus.
  • Experience in drafting disciplines with a background in substation design is highly preferred.
  • Minimum of 4 years' experience in the electric utility industry performing detailed CAD/design for high voltage substation projects. More experience could result in a higher-level position.
  • Experience with 3D and/or smart design software (AutoCAD, AutoCAD Electrical, Inventor, SDS, etc.) is preferred.
  • Word processing, spread sheet, and e-mail software.
  • Extensive knowledge of various CAD programs
  • Basic knowledge of the major components of a substation
  • Basic oral and written communications
  • Basic knowledge of the types of drawings required to construct an electrical substation.
  • Working in a team environment
  • Communicating effectively with co-workers
  • Able to deal with ambiguity and ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks and determine priorities in a complex environment.

Travel Requirements:

  • Role will require travel as necessary to achieve job responsibilities. but travel will be minimal to support project related site visits.
What You'll Get
  • Competitive salary - overtime is available
  • Comprehensive health and retirement benefits
  • Professional development opportunities.
Compensation RangeThe anticipated compensation for this position is USD $69,600.00/Yr. - USD $125,700.00/Yr. depending on experience and qualifications.Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

Employment Type: OTHER