Design Drafter

About the role

This position supports engineering teams by developing accurate mechanical designs, engineering drawings, and 3D models for industrial equipment and manufacturing applications. The role involves creating and updating documentation, implementing design revisions, and ensuring designs meet project, quality, and manufacturing requirements.

This is a Contract to Hire position based in Chattanooga, TN, in a manufacturing environment with regular interaction between the engineering office and production floor.

Responsibilities

• Create and modify 2D and 3D designs using AutoCAD and CAD software such as Inventor, SolidWorks, or Creo.
• Develop detailed part, assembly, and layout drawings for mechanical systems and equipment.
• Interpret engineering specifications and technical requirements to produce accurate designs.
• Generate and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs) and related documentation.
• Perform basic engineering calculations involving dimensions, tolerances, materials, and weight.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to improve design functionality and manufacturability.
• Support design revisions and product updates throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure designs comply with applicable quality, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Participate in design reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage multiple projects while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

Requirements

• Proficiency in AutoCAD for 2D drafting.
• Experience with 3D CAD software such as Inventor, SolidWorks, or Creo.
• Experience with mechanical drafting, design, or engineering technology.
• Experience creating detailed drawings, assemblies, and 3D models.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, and engineering documentation.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and design-for-production principles.
• Experience creating and maintaining BOMs.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of mechanical design principles and practices.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or technical certification in drafting, mechanical design, or a related field.
• Experience designing industrial machinery or heavy equipment.
• Knowledge of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing).
• Experience integrating BOMs with ERP systems.
• Understanding of Design for Manufacturability (DFM).
• Experience working in a manufacturing or production environment.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies and document standardization.

Pay

The pay range for this position is $33.00 - $41.00/hr. Individual compensation offered within this range will depend on qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Benefits

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital insurance.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available.
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents).
• Short and long-term disability.
• Health Spending Account (HSA).
• Transportation benefits.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Paid Time Off (PTO, Vacation, or Sick Leave).
• Company-observed holidays.

Schedule

This is a fully onsite position in Chattanooga, TN.