Designer / Drafter

Designer / Drafter

Laser Cutting & Metal Fabrication

Job Summary

The Mid-Level Designer / Drafter supports laser cutting and fabrication operations by independently creating accurate 2D and 3D designs, flat patterns, and laser-ready files. This role acts as a technical link between sales, engineering, and production, ensuring customer requirements are translated into efficient, manufacturable parts while maintaining proper data control and revision management.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Drafting

• Independently create and revise 2D and 3D CAD models for laser-cut, formed, and fabricated metal parts
• Generate DXF/DWG files optimized for laser cutting and material efficiency
• Develop flat patterns accounting for bend deductions, K-factors, material thickness, and grain direction
• Produce detailed shop drawings with dimensions, tolerances, material specifications, and notes

Manufacturing & Production Support

• Review customer drawings and models; identify manufacturability issues before release
• Collaborate with laser, press brake, and fabrication teams to resolve production challenges
• Support quoting by providing part layouts, complexity feedback, and material usage estimates
• Manage drawing revisions and engineering change requests during production

PDM & Documentation Control

• Use PDM software to manage CAD files, drawings, and related documentation
• Ensure proper revision control, approvals, and release processes are followed
• Maintain accurate metadata including part numbers, descriptions, materials, and revisions
• Assist in enforcing company data management standards and best practices

Continuous Improvement

• Suggest design improvements to reduce cost, improve cut quality, and minimize scrap
• Support nesting and layout optimization efforts
• Mentor entry-level drafters as needed

Required Qualifications

• 3–7 years of experience in drafting/design within a metal fabrication or manufacturing environment
• Proficiency in SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or equivalent CAD software
• Hands-on experience using PDM systems (e.g., SolidWorks PDM, Vault, Windchill, Teamcenter, or similar)
• Strong understanding of laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication, and forming processes
• Working knowledge of tolerances, GD&T fundamentals, and common metal materials
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with nesting software (SigmaNEST, TruTops, BySoft, ProNest, etc.)
• Familiarity with press brake tooling and forming limitations
• Experience supporting quoting or cost-reduction initiatives
• Associate degree or technical certification in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field

Work Environment

• Combination of office and shop-floor collaboration
• Fast-paced, production-focused fabrication environment
• Frequent interaction with production, sales, and engineering teams

Job Type: Full-time

Expected hours: 40 – 45 per week

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person