Cad Drafter​/designer

Job Title:

CAD Drafter / Mechanical Designer – Industrial Automation (Solid Works Focus) Job Description

This role focuses on designing and developing custom industrial automation equipment, including aluminum extrusion guards and frames, with a strong emphasis on Solid Works. You will create detailed mechanical designs, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and support projects from initial concept through to production. This position is ideal for a mechanical designer with hands‑on experience in automated systems, machinery, or tooling who enjoys working in a fast‑paced, project‑driven environment and wants to deepen their experience in industrial automation.

• Design and develop mechanical components, assemblies, and systems for industrial automation equipment using Solid Works and IronCAD.
• Create detailed 3D models, engineering drawings, and complete Bills of Materials (BOMs) and documentation to support manufacturing and assembly.
• Design housings and enclosures for robotic and manufacturing equipment, primarily using aluminum extrusion framing and catalog components.
• Interpret customer specifications for sizing and performance, select appropriate components from a catalog, and design custom frames and guards to meet requirements.
• Prepare and maintain accurate BOMs for each design and hand off complete design packages to the production team.
• Participate actively in concept development, design reviews, and design‑for‑manufacturing discussions to ensure robust and cost‑effective solutions.
• Work closely with vendors and suppliers to source components, clarify specifications, and resolve technical issues related to mechanical design.
• Collaborate with shop and assembly teams on the production floor to clarify design intent, address questions, and support successful builds.
• Maintain accurate and up‑to‑date design documentation, models, and drawings in accordance with internal standards and processes.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives by refining design standards, templates, and workflows to enhance quality and efficiency.

• 3–8+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in industrial automation, machinery, or tooling.
• Advanced proficiency in Solid Works, including parts, assemblies, drawings, and configurations.
• Proven experience producing accurate and manufacturable mechanical drawings for fabrication and assembly.
• Familiarity with standard industrial components such as sensors, motors, gearboxes, fasteners, and related hardware.
• Experience creating and managing Bills of Materials (BOMs) for mechanical assemblies.
• Hands‑on experience with CAD drafting and mechanical design for manufacturing applications.
• Ability to design aluminum extrusion frames and structures for guards, housings, and equipment enclosures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate documentation throughout the design process.

• Strong understanding of mechanical principles, including pneumatics and motion systems such as rails, ball screws, and conveyors.
• Knowledge of structural design and materials selection for industrial equipment and frames.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Design, or a related field.
• Experience with automated manufacturing equipment, robotics, or custom machinery.
• Working knowledge of PDM/PLM systems, with Solid Works PDM experience preferred.
• Basic understanding of controls integration, including familiarity with PLCs, sensors, and wiring layouts.
• Experience designing sheet metal parts, weldments, and machined components.
• Hands‑on shop or assembly experience, with the ability to communicate effectively with production personnel.
• Experience in design for manufacturing (DFM) and an understanding of practical manufacturing constraints.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, project‑driven environment with multiple concurrent projects.

The role is primarily desk‑based, working with CAD tools such as Solid Works and IronCAD to develop detailed mechanical designs. You will regularly interact with the production floor to clarify assemblies, review builds, and ensure…