Manufacturing Design Engineer (Lead Designer/Engineer)

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

Autocraft Group Inc. is seeking an experienced and motivated Lead Designer/Engineer to lead our CAD/CAM Department. This position combines hands-on engineering and design responsibilities with leadership of drafting, product development, and manufacturing support functions. The ideal candidate will possess strong design engineering capabilities, extensive experience with Autodesk Inventor , and practical knowledge of nested CAM software systems such as SigmaNEST .

This role is responsible for overseeing the development of engineered products from concept through production, ensuring designs are accurate, manufacturable, cost-effective, and aligned with company quality standards. The Lead Designer/Engineer will work closely with production, manufacturing, sales, and project management teams to deliver innovative solutions while improving processes and driving continuous improvement within the department.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Design

·         Lead the design and engineering of products, assemblies, and components using Autodesk Inventor and related Autodesk applications.

·         Develop detailed 3D models, fabrication drawings, engineering specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).

·         Perform engineering analysis, design reviews, and manufacturability assessments.

·         Ensure designs meet customer requirements, industry standards, safety considerations, and production capabilities.

·         Support new product development, product enhancements, and custom engineering projects.

·         Maintain engineering change processes and revision control procedures.

·         Create and maintain design standards, templates, and engineering documentation.

CAD/CAM Leadership

·         Manage and oversee the daily operation of the CAD/CAM department.

·         Mentor and provide technical guidance to designers, drafters, and engineering staff.

·         Establish departmental priorities and manage project workloads to meet deadlines.

·         Ensure consistency, accuracy, and quality of all design and manufacturing documentation.

·         Drive continuous improvement initiatives related to design, engineering, and manufacturing workflows.

Manufacturing & CAM Integration

·         Generate and manage manufacturing-ready files for CNC, laser, plasma, and fabrication operations.

·         Develop and optimize nesting programs using SigmaNEST or similar nesting/CAM software to maximize material utilization and production efficiency.

·         Collaborate with production teams to improve manufacturing processes and reduce waste.

·         Support troubleshooting of manufacturing issues and implement corrective design solutions.

·         Assist in evaluating new equipment, software, and manufacturing technologies.

Project Management & Collaboration

·         Coordinate projects from concept through fabrication and final production.

·         Work directly with customers, suppliers, and internal teams to define project requirements and engineering solutions.

·         Estimate labor, material, and manufacturing requirements for projects.

·         Participate in strategic planning related to product development, manufacturing improvements, and technology investments.

·         Other duties, projects and responsibilities as assigned by manager

Qualifications

Education

Preferred:

·         Associate's Degree (2-year) or Bachelor's Degree (4-year) in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Industrial Design, Manufacturing Engineering; or related field time experience.

·         Relevant work experience and demonstrated technical expertise may be considered in lieu of formal education.

Experience

·         Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in design engineering, manufacturing engineering, or CAD/CAM operations.

·         Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.

·         Experience working in a fabrication, manufacturing, or custom-built product environment preferred.

·         Experience supporting CNC cutting, fabrication, and welding operations.

Technical Skills

Required:

·         Advanced proficiency with Autodesk Inventor .

·         Strong knowledge of engineering drawings, geometric tolerancing, and manufacturing processes.

·         Experience with SigmaNEST or comparable nesting/CAM software.

·         Understanding of CNC machining, laser cutting, plasma cutting, and fabrication processes.

·         Ability to create and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs).

·         Strong understanding of material properties, sheet metal fabrication, and manufacturing best practices.

Preferred:

·         Experience with Autodesk Vault or other document management systems.

·         Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems.

·         Knowledge of automation, process improvement, and lean manufacturing principles.

Desired Competencies

·         Strong leadership and team development skills.

·         Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.

·         Effective verbal and written communication skills.

·         High attention to detail and commitment to quality.

·         Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.

·         Strong organizational and project management skills.

·         Results-oriented with a focus on continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements

·         Ability to work in both office and manufacturing environments.

·         Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.

·         Ability to walk production floors and inspect manufacturing operations as needed.

Benefits Summary

·         7 Paid Holidays

·         4 Weeks Paid Vacation

·         Group Term Life: Company Paid

·         Health Insurance: Company Pays 1⁄2 of the employee rate.

·         Dental Insurance: Company Pays 1⁄2 of the employee rate.

·         Vision Insurance: Company Pays 1⁄2 of the employee rate.

·         Accident Insurance: Employee Paid

·         Critical Illness Insurance: Employee Paid

·         Voluntary Life Insurance: Employee Paid

·         Simple IRA: Company will match up to 3% of employee’s contributions.

Autocraft Group Inc. is a holding company for multiple brands delivering vehicle sales and service, vehicle customizations and custom cabinetry for use by first responders. Our clients include fire departments, EMS agencies, police and the federal government to name a few. We are dedicated to quality and are poised in the market as a national leader in providing custom solutions at a production price point.

Autocraft has been in business since 1997 and is owned and operated by first responders providing vehicle and custom services for first responders so we know exactly how these vehicles should be built.

Company Description

Autocraft Group Inc. is a holding company for multiple brands delivering vehicle sales and service, vehicle customizations and custom cabinetry for use by first responders. Our clients include fire departments, EMS agencies, police and the federal government to name a few. We are dedicated to quality and are poised in the market as a national leader in providing custom solutions at a production price point.\r\n\r\nAutocraft has been in business since 1997 and is owned and operated by first responders providing vehicle and custom services for first responders so we know exactly how these vehicles should be built.