CAD Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

The CAD Design Manager will lead and manage a team of CAD Engineers responsible for supporting the design, engineering, and development of prototype tools and fixtures. This role will serve as the key liaison between design engineering, manufacturing, and prototype development teams to ensure the successful execution of projects from concept through testing. The CAD Design Manager will leverage advanced CAD tools to facilitate benchmarking, concept design, 3D modeling, and simulation while maintaining alignment with customer specifications and standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and mentor a team of CAD Design Engineers, providing leadership, direction, and technical guidance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to support prototype development, tooling, and fixture design.
• Interpret and utilize customer-supplied product data, datum schemes (GD&T), and design standards to ensure all CAD work meets customer and internal specifications.
• Oversee and maintain incoming data configuration and organization to ensure proper version control and traceability.
• Utilize CAD software (CATIA, NX, AutoCAD) to create, modify, and analyze detailed 3D models and 2D drawings.
• Participate in design reviews and contribute to design optimization, manufacturability, and assembly feasibility discussions.
• Lead benchmarking activities and support concept design, simulation, and prototype development initiatives.
• Coordinate with prototype and testing teams to ensure smooth transition of designs into fabrication and validation.
• Ensure compliance with company quality and documentation standards.
• Communicate effectively with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to align design deliverables with project goals and timelines.

Requirements

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Design Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Proven experience managing or leading a CAD design team in an engineering or manufacturing environment.
• Proficiency with CAD software such as CATIA or Siemens NX; experience with AutoCAD required.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, datum structures, and customer-specific design standards.
• Solid knowledge of prototype tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing processes.
• Excellent organizational and data management skills for handling complex CAD files and design revisions.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex design concepts clearly.
• Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in prototype or low-volume production environments.
• Familiarity with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems.
• Hands-on experience with simulation or FEA tools.
• Previous experience interfacing with OEM customers and understanding of automotive or aerospace standards.