CAD Drafter (Riverside County)

Job Title: CAD Drafter

Essential Duties :

• Develop and maintain 3D CAD models, assemblies, and 2D drawings for transit bus structures, chassis components, brackets, mounting systems, and mechanical subsystems using SolidWorks.
• Produce manufacturing-ready drawings with appropriate GD&T, tolerancing, weld symbols, and revision control.
• Translate conceptual layouts and engineering requirements into release-ready CAD models and drawings.
• Administer SolidWorks PDM best practices, including file structures, workflows, revision control, metadata, and release processes.
• Oversee drawing and CAD release processes from WIP through production, ensuring accuracy and traceability.
• Create, maintain, and improve CAD standards, templates, libraries, and naming conventions.
• Support BOM creation, ensuring alignment between CAD, PDM, and ERP systems.
• Serve as a subject-matter expert for SolidWorks and PDM, assisting with software implementation, optimization, and user training.
• Mentor and train junior draftsmen/designers on CAD modeling, drawing practices, and PDM disciplines.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and supply chain teams to meet project needs.
• Interface with suppliers to review drawings, models, and manufacturing feasibility.
• Contribute to prototype builds, address production issues, implement drawing corrections, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Associate degree or technical certification in Drafting, Mechanical Design, or a related field (Bachelor’s degree a plus).
• 5+ years of professional experience in CAD design, specifically within automotive, heavy-duty vehicles, or industrial equipment environments.
• Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks.
• Extensive hands-on experience with SolidWorks PDM or equivalent systems.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, tolerancing, and manufacturing drawing standards.
• Proven ability to manage large assemblies and complex CAD file structures.
• Excellent organizational skills with keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in the transit bus or heavy-duty vehicle industries.
• Experience supporting BOM release and ERP integration.
• Familiarity with vehicle structures and mounting systems.
• Experience establishing or enhancing CAD/PDM standards.
• SolidWorks PDM Administrator experience.
• Exposure to regulatory-driven design environments.