SolidWorks Drafter (Chicago)

Job Description: SolidWorks Drafter

Pay: $62,000 - $70,000 (depending on experience)

Location: Chicago, IL 60638

Department: Engineering / Operations

Reports To: General Manager or Designated Engineering Lead

Position Summary

We are seeking a SolidWorks Drafter to support a precision sheet metal manufacturing operation specializing in custom point-of-purchase (POP) displays, retail fixtures, cabinets, product assemblies, packaging, and turnkey solutions for retail, commercial, and renewable energy customers. The operation provides single-source manufacturing capabilities from initial concept through laser cutting, forming, welding, powder coating, and final assembly.

The SolidWorks Drafter will focus on creating, updating, and documenting accurate 3D models and detailed 2D manufacturing drawings for fabricated products and assemblies. This position directly supports production efficiency, quality control, quoting accuracy, manufacturing documentation, and ERP integration using the Fulcrum system.

The worker will work closely with production, sales, engineering, and customer-facing teams to translate designs, sketches, customer specifications, physical parts, and legacy files into accurate, professional, shop-ready documentation. This is a hands-on, project-based internship ideal for a student or recent graduate pursuing Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Technology, CAD/Drafting, or a related field.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and maintain accurate 3D models and detailed 2D manufacturing drawings in SolidWorks for sheet metal parts, assemblies, POP displays, cabinets, and related hardware.
• Apply SolidWorks sheet metal best practices, including sheet metal features, flat patterns, bend tables, and appropriate manufacturing tolerances.
• Document critical manufacturing information, including dimensions, GD&T where applicable, material specifications, material gauge, finishes, powder coating requirements, weld symbols, hardware, and assembly instructions.
• Update and convert legacy drawings, PDFs, sketches, and other documentation into native SolidWorks files as part of ongoing digitization efforts.
• Collaborate with production personnel to revise drawings and designs to improve manufacturability, reduce costs, enhance quality, and support efficient production.
• Assist with generating and maintaining Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Export and prepare manufacturing and customer files in formats including DXF, DWG, STEP, and PDF for quoting, customer uploads, and shop-floor use.
• Participate in design reviews, production floor walks, and cross-functional meetings to understand how engineering drawings translate into laser cutting, forming, welding, powder coating, and assembly operations.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by developing drawing templates, standardized notes libraries, documentation standards, and drawing checklists aligned with ISO-based quality practices.
• Maintain an organized electronic file structure and ensure drawings, models, and related documentation are accurately stored and maintained within the ERP system.
• Work collaboratively with engineering, production, operations, sales, and customer teams to ensure manufacturing documentation accurately reflects project and production requirements.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a two- or four-year program in Mechanical Engineering, CAD/Drafting, Manufacturing Technology , or a related technical field.
• Basic familiarity with SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD software.
• Previous sheet metal fabrication, drafting, engineering, or manufacturing experience is strongly preferred but not required; training will be provided.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy when creating and reviewing technical documentation.
• Strong spatial reasoning and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to interpret sketches, customer specifications, engineering drawings, legacy documentation, and physical components.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage assigned projects following initial training and direction.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with production and cross-functional teams in a hands-on manufacturing environment.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience using SolidWorks in a real-world precision sheet metal manufacturing environment.
• Practical experience creating manufacturing-ready 3D models, 2D drawings, BOMs, and supporting documentation.
• Exposure to the complete metal fabrication process, including laser cutting, press brake forming, welding, powder coating, and assembly.
• Experience working with the Fulcrum ERP system and integrating engineering documentation with manufacturing operations.
• Direct exposure to manufacturability, quality, quoting, and continuous improvement processes.
• Opportunities to develop a portfolio of completed drawings and manufacturing projects for future employment opportunities.
• Mentorship and hands-on training from experienced manufacturing and engineering professionals.
• Potential opportunity for full-time employment following successful completion of the internship.

Equal Opportunity Employment

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive workplace and building a strong, diverse team.

ABOUT ACCURATE PERSONNEL

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