Senior CAD Designer

Aurora Marine Design is a premier naval architecture firm headquartered in San Diego, CA, specializing in the design and engineering of efficient, cutting edge commercial and government marine vessels. We bring together world-class talent to deliver innovative vessel solutions for our clients across the United States and beyond

We are seeking a Senior CAD Designer to take ownership of complex drawing packages and lead drafting efforts on high-profile vessel projects. You will serve as a technical resource for junior designers, uphold our CAD standards, and work closely with naval architects to translate engineering concepts into precise, construction-ready documentation.

• Lead development of complex CAD drawing packages including general arrangements, structural plans, outfit drawings, and systems diagrams
• Mentor and technically guide junior CAD designers and review their work for quality and accuracy
• Collaborate directly with naval architects and project managers throughout all design phases
• Establish and enforce CAD drafting standards, templates, and best practices across the team
• Prepare and manage drawing submittal packages for USCG approval and classification review
• Coordinate with shipyards and fabricators to resolve technical drawing questions
• Develop 3D models and renderings for client presentations and design reviews
• Support proposal efforts with drawing scope estimates and exhibit preparation

• Bachelor’s degree in Drafting, Marine Technology, Naval Architecture, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5+ years of CAD experience in a marine design, shipbuilding, or related engineering environment
• Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and at least one 3D modeling tool (Rhino, Solidworks, or equivalent)
• Thorough understanding of marine vessel drawing standards and engineering documentation practices
• Proven ability to manage drawing sets on multiple concurrent projects
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and communication skills

• Significant experience with aluminum passenger vessel design drawings
• In-depth familiarity with USCG plan review and approval processes
• Experience with Maxsurf, Ship Constructor, or similar marine-specific software
• Knowledge of ABS, DNV, or other classification society drawing standards
• Background in structural, outfit, and systems integration drafting for commercial vessels

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with company match
• Senior-level role with significant project ownership and team influence
• Opportunities to grow into a Lead Designer or Design Manager role
• Collaborative, mission-driven team culture in a growing firm