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.