Day in the Life at ID3

CAD Detailer – Custom Fabrication & Scenic Builds

At ID3, CAD Detailers play a critical role in turning creative concepts into buildable, production-ready drawings. They work at the intersection of design and fabrication, ensuring that every scenic element, architectural feature, and experiential build can move smoothly from concept to the shop floor.

If you enjoy technical problem solving, collaborating with fabrication teams, and translating design intent into real-world structures, this role puts you at the center of the build process.

Translating Design into Buildable Plans

The day often begins by reviewing design intent drawings, 3D models, and project documentation from the design team.

CAD Detailers start by:

• Converting design concepts into accurate 2D shop drawings for fabrication

• Reviewing project scope with Project Managers and Designers

• Planning the build sequence to ensure drawings support the production workflow

• Identifying materials, hardware, and construction details needed for fabrication

This stage ensures the shop team receives clear, practical drawings that can be built efficiently.

Supporting Fabrication and Production

As projects move forward, CAD Detailers work closely with fabrication leads and shop teams to ensure drawings meet the real-world needs of production.

Daily tasks may include:

• Creating detailed part files, exploded views, and assembly drawings

• Developing cut lists and material take-offs

• Specifying materials including wood, metal, foam, acrylics, and specialty components

• Ensuring designs support structural integrity, safety, and fabrication efficiency

The CAD Detailer helps bridge the gap between design vision and shop execution.

Collaboration and Problem Solving

Custom fabrication often requires adjustments and technical solutions.

CAD Detailers frequently:

• Participate in project kickoff and design review meetings

• Address redlines, revisions, and design changes

• Work with project managers and fabrication leads to resolve build challenges

• Maintain drawing revision logs and ensure proper version control

This collaboration ensures projects stay accurate, organized, and aligned across departments.

Preparing Drawings for Production

Before wrapping up, CAD Detailers ensure their drawings are complete, organized, and ready for the shop floor.

This may include:

• Finalizing shop drawing packages

• Updating drawing revisions

• Preparing files for CNC or fabrication workflows

• Supporting the shop team with clarification when needed

Their work ensures fabrication teams can move forward confidently and efficiently.

What Makes a Great CAD Detailer at ID3

Successful candidates typically bring experience in environments where design must translate into real-world builds.

Preferred qualifications include:

• 3 years of CAD drafting experience in scenic, fabrication, exhibit, or architectural production environments

• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD (required)

• Experience with Rhino, SolidWorks, Revit, or SketchUp is highly preferred

• Millwork experience required; CNC programming experience is a strong plus

• Working knowledge of materials such as wood, metal, foam, acrylics, and fabrication methods

• Ability to translate design intent into accurate construction drawings

Strong candidates also demonstrate:

• Problem-solving ability and technical thinking

• Excellent organization and time management

• Clear communication with both design and production teams

• Comfort working in a fast-paced, collaborative fabrication environment

Work Environment

This role is primarily office-based, with frequent collaboration with the design team, project managers, and shop leadership.

The position may occasionally require:

• Visits to the production floor to review fabrication needs

• Coordination with project teams for design clarification

CAD Detailers must be comfortable managing multiple deadlines and revisions across several projects simultaneously.

Build With ID3

At ID3, we specialize in custom scenic builds, experiential environments, and architectural fabrication. Our CAD Detailers play a key role in making these projects possible by transforming creative concepts into precise, buildable plans.

If you enjoy technical design work that directly impacts how projects are built, we encourage you to apply.