What are the responsibilities and job description for the CAD Designer position at Howell Laboratories Inc?
Job Title: CAD Designer
Reports To: Engineering Manager
Type of Position: Full-Time
Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Bridgton, ME
General Job Description:
The CAD Designer will be trained to create 2D and 3D digital models and technical drawings that guide large-scale engineering, construction, or manufacturing projects. Through comprehensive on-the-job training and direct mentorship, you will learn to bridge the gap between conceptual engineering and physical execution. We are looking for an individual with a strong growth mindset who is eager to learn how to ensure all designs are technically sound, cost-effective, and compliant with current industry standards. This role will work closely with electrical and mechanical engineers to ensure designs are complete and meet customer and safety specifications. Additionally, the CAD Designer will be trained to execute Engineering Change Requests, working alongside the Engineering Manager to define tasks and successfully meet project goals and timelines.
Our Legacy
Howell Laboratories, Inc. has delivered mission-critical marine solutions for over six decades. Since becoming employee-owned in 1995, we have leveraged a culture of high productivity to develop cutting-edge air and water treatment systems for the US Navy and Coast Guard. From desiccant dehydrators to electrolytic disinfectant generators, we specialize in solving complex problems with custom-engineered technology built for the sea.
Howell Laboratories and its divisions: ODAT Machine and GDL Powder Coating, is a 100% employee-owned (ESOP) engineering and manufacturing company based in Bridgton and Gorham, ME. We are committed to providing our knowledge, expertise, and integrity to partners who require solutions on which they can stake their lives and livelihoods. We turn innovation into creation.
Our Values: Ownership, Accountability, Integrity, Feedback, Empathy, Openness
Responsibilities:
- Complex Modeling: Develop and refine multi-discipline 3D models and detailed 2D production drawings (e.g., General Arrangement, P&IDs, component and assembly drawings) using CAD software.
- Prepare Bill of Material (BOM) for drawings and setup into ERP. Structure the Method of Manufacturing in ERP to fabricate components and assemblies.
- Technical Coordination: Collaborate with engineers, manufacturing and project managers to resolve spatial constraints and design conflicts before prototypes or construction begins.
- Standardization & Quality: Learn and adhere to company CAD standards, ensuring all project documentation adheres to codes such as Military Specifications, ASME, ANSI, or ISO.
- Lifecycle Management: Manage design revisions, maintain up-to-date archives in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems.
- Innovation: Stay current with emerging technologies.
- Engineering change requests.
- Assist with fixture design, drafting, and implementation alongside the manufacturing team.
Qualifications:
- Experience: Entry-level. CAD experience is preferred but not strictly required. We will fully train a highly motivated, fast learner.
- Education: Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Drafting, Architecture, or a related field or equivalent experience.
- Software: Experience Autodesk, Catia or SolidWorks.
- Technical Skills: Willingness to learn drawing checks, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), and material specifications.
Key Competencies:
- Soft Skills: Critical thinking, a growth mindset, eagerness to learn, and the ability
to adapt to new training quickly.
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.