Principal CAD Designer

The role

The Principal CAD Designer provides advanced CAD drafting and design support using SolidWorks throughout the product development lifecycle. This role involves managing 3D models, engineering drawings, and technical documentation while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

What you will do

• Provide advanced CAD drafting and design support using SolidWorks.
• Generate, modify, and maintain detailed 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings.
• Ensure drawings and models comply with engineering standards, GD&T, and documentation procedures.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and program teams.
• Support prototype, development, and production design updates.
• Manage mechanical CAD files and digital design documentation within PDM systems.
• Administer file structures, version control, and drawing release processes within SolidWorks PDM.
• Prepare, process, and implement Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) and Engineering Change Requests (ECRs).
• Maintain accurate Bill of Materials (BOM) structures and hardware configurations.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior designers and drafters.

Required qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive CAD design and drafting experience in a manufacturing, engineering, aerospace, or product development environment.
• Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks, including part modeling, assemblies, and engineering drawing creation.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, mechanical drafting standards, and engineering documentation best practices.
• Proficiency with drafting and diagramming tools such as DraftSight, Lucidchart, Draw.io, or similar applications.
• Experience with issue tracking and workflow management tools such as Jira or equivalent systems.
• Working knowledge of engineering change control processes and configuration management principles.
• Ability to interpret engineering specifications, manufacturing requirements, and technical documentation.
• Experience creating and managing BOMs and associated hardware documentation.
• Exposure to ERP and PLM systems, including platforms such as SAP, Windchill, ENOVIA, or similar solutions.
• Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organization, and commitment to documentation accuracy.

Nice to have

• Associate degree or technical certification in Drafting, Design Technology, Mechanical Design, Engineering Technology, or a related field

Benefits

• Mentorship
• Career growth opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits

Before you apply

• Only US Persons (citizens or permanent residents) need apply
• Candidates will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening

About the company

ALTEN Technology USA is an engineering company with 3,000+ experts across North America. They partner with companies in aerospace, medical devices, robotics, automotive, and more to deliver product development services.