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CesiumAstro is seeking a Principal CAD Designer to join their aerospace and space communications company. The role is responsible for providing advanced CAD design and drafting support throughout the product development lifecycle for satellites, spacecraft, UAVs, and launch vehicles.
Key responsibilities include:
- Develop, modify, and maintain detailed 3D models, assemblies, engineering drawings, and technical documentation using SolidWorks
- Ensure all drawings and models comply with engineering standards, GD&T requirements, and company documentation procedures
- Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and program teams to support design development and product release
- Manage mechanical CAD files and digital design documentation within Product Data Management (PDM) systems
- Administer file structures, version control, and drawing release processes within SolidWorks PDM
- Prepare and incorporate Engineering Change Orders (ECOs/ECRs) into released documentation packages
- Maintain accurate bill of material (BOM) structures and hardware configurations
- Review CAD models and drawings for completeness, manufacturability, accuracy, and compliance
- Identify design issues and support corrective actions
- Support standardization and continuous improvement of CAD processes, templates, and documentation workflows
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior designers or drafters
- Support departmental initiatives focused on efficiency, data integrity, and documentation quality
The role operates in a fast-paced product development environment with frequent collaboration across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and program teams. The position requires extended time at a computer workstation with strong focus and accuracy managing complex documentation.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Associate's degree or technical certification in Drafting, Design Technology, Mechanical Design, Engineering Technology, or related field (preferred)
- 7+ years of progressive CAD design and drafting experience in manufacturing, aerospace, engineering, or product development
- Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks (part modeling, assemblies, engineering drawing creation)
- Strong understanding of GD&T, mechanical drafting standards, and engineering documentation best practices
- Proficiency with technical diagramming tools (DraftSight, Lucidchart, Draw.io, or equivalent)
- Experience with issue tracking and workflow management tools (Jira or similar)
- Knowledge of engineering change control processes and configuration management principles
- Ability to interpret engineering specifications, manufacturing requirements, and technical documentation
- Experience creating and managing BOM structures and hardware documentation
- Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills
- Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and commitment to documentation accuracy
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
- Mechanical proficiency and understanding of manufacturing (CNC, 3D printing) and mechanical assembly techniques
- Knowledge of ASME Y14.5 (GD&T) and ASME Y14.100 (Engineering Drawing Practices)
- Experience supporting design of electronic packages, ground structures, mechanisms, and/or composite structures
- Aerospace or automotive electronics design experience
- Exposure to ERP and PLM systems (SAP, Windchill, ENOVIA, or similar)
NOTE: Applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, conditional resident, asylee, or refugee, or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State due to U.S. Government Space Technology Export Regulations.
