Computer Aided Design Designer

Designer 1/CAD Technician – Transmission (Mid-Senior Level) Fully Remote 3-6-month Contract-to-Hire Pay Scale : $25/hr.-$42/hr. About the Opportunity NEI is seeking an experienced Designer and/or CAD Technician to support a growing portfolio of utility and renewable energy projects. Due to increased project volume and incoming client demand, the team is expanding its design capabilities and looking for a self-sufficient professional who can quickly contribute with minimal ramp-up time. Position Summary The CAD Technician / Designer will be responsible for developing engineering drawings, translating engineering markups into construction-ready design packages, and supporting utility transmission line projects through drafting and modeling activities. The team is seeking someone with approximately 5-10+ years of relevant experience who can independently manage assignments, understand utility design standards, and contribute immediately without significant oversight or training. Key Responsibilities Develop and modify engineering drawings using AutoCAD and Autodesk design tools Create detailed design packages based on engineering markups and project requirements Perform drafting support for transmission and utility infrastructure projects Assist with PLS-CADD modeling activities for transmission line design projects Support early-stage project design development under engineering oversight Incorporate revisions and design updates throughout project lifecycles Collaborate with engineers, designers, and project teams to ensure accurate deliverables Maintain drawing quality, standards compliance, and documentation accuracy Support renewable energy and utility-related project initiatives Work independently while managing multiple project priorities Required Qualifications 5+ years of CAD drafting and design experience Advanced proficiency with AutoCAD Experience using Autodesk design software Hands-on experience with PLS-CADD (required) Experience supporting utility, transmission, power delivery, or related infrastructure projects Ability to interpret engineering markups and develop detailed design drawings Strong understanding of drafting standards and engineering documentation Ability to work independently with minimal direction Strong communication and collaboration skills in a remote environment Preferred Qualifications Utility transmission line design experience Experience with wood pole and steel pole transmission projects Structure spotting experience Exposure to renewable energy projects Understanding of power delivery engineering workflows Familiarity with early-stage transmission design packages Why This Role Stands Out Clear path to grow into a Transmission Designer role (especially with PLS-CADD exposure) Exposure to high-voltage infrastructure and renewable energy projects Work on large-scale, impactful projects supporting grid expansion and data center growth Strong, collaborative team environment with experienced engineers Stable and growing project pipeline