Job Description

Location: Grand Rapids, MI (on-site)

Job Type: Full-Time

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced CAD Manager to lead a dynamic CAD design and drafting team. This role is all about shaping the design and documentation process that supports innovative mechanical and electro-mechanical products. If you’re passionate about process improvement, technical precision, and team leadership, this opportunity offers a rewarding platform for your skills.

Projects You'll Work On

• Oversight and coordination of all CAD modeling and drafting assignments for new and existing products.
• Development of complex 3D models and engineering drawings, ensuring quality and manufacturability.
• Collaboration with engineering, manufacturing, and operations teams to support product development from concept through production.
• Driving accuracy and consistency in part selection, materials, and manufacturing processes for every component and assembly.
• Leading initial production runs and pilot builds to validate drawing packages, BOMs, and assembly integrity.
• Providing documentation support to marketing, sales, and manufacturing as needed.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and mentor a team of Designers and Drafters, managing daily workflow and conducting performance evaluations.
• Approve technical documentation including drawings and models to ensure alignment with quality and project standards.
• Serve as the go-to expert on 3D CAD tools (such as AutoCAD and Inventor), and continuously improve team modeling practices.
• Oversee the creation and management of complex assemblies and multi-level BOMs using PLM systems.
• Perform tolerance stack-up and interference analyses to ensure robust design integrity.
• Own the engineering change process, including creating and reviewing ECOs and ECNs.
• Collaborate across departments to maintain accurate item masters and material data in PLM and ERP systems.
• Recommend process improvements for documentation and modeling best practices.
• Assist with evaluating and training on new software tools for engineering productivity.
• Promote a culture of safety and quality in all documentation and design activities.

What Experience You Should Bring

• Associate degree in Mechanical Design, Engineering Technology, or a related field (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
• 3+ years of experience in CAD design or mechanical drafting, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Hands-on experience with 2D and 3D CAD platforms , especially AutoCAD and Inventor .
• Strong working knowledge of PLM and ERP systems (Oracle experience a plus).
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes, including machining, sheet metal, and fabrication.
• Ability to analyze engineering data, perform mathematical calculations, and interpret ANSI standards.
• Demonstrated expertise in stack-up analysis, tolerance design, and fit/form/function verification.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.
• Strong understanding of documentation practices, BOM structuring, and part lifecycle management.

Why Join Our Client

You’ll play a pivotal role in delivering technically sound and manufacturable designs that support critical product development efforts. This is a visible leadership opportunity where your ability to manage a high-performing team, influence process improvements, and drive quality across engineering deliverables will have a lasting impact.

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