Computer Aided Design & Drafting

Ashby Finance; England; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the United Kingdom is seeking a Computer Aided Design & Drafting specialist. This role involves delivering high-quality CAD/CAM/CAE engineering support across complex automotive programs. Responsibilities include creating detailed designs, coordinating with engineering teams, and ensuring manufacturability of components. Candidates should have strong CAD capabilities, knowledge of GD&T, and experience with tools like CATIA. A commitment to continuous learning and problem-solving is essential. This position is inside IR35 with a competitive hourly rate.

Qualifications

• Ability to design and manipulate mechanical components.
• Experience performing bolted joint and adhesive force calculations.
• Awareness of noise factors that may degrade joint performance.

Responsibilities

• Translate engineering requirements into detailed CAD/CAM drawings.
• Digitise and control engineering drawings for components.
• Coordinate with engineering teams for material definitions.
• Create digital prototypes and conduct simulations.

Skills

Strong CAD capability

Detailed knowledge of GD&T

Working knowledge of FMEA

Experience with manufacturing processes

Understanding of fixing methods

Knowledge of tooling design considerations

Experience using CATIA or equivalent CAD

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Logical problem-solving approach

Commitment to continuous learning

Tools

CATIA

Job description

Overview

£34.03 - £34.43 per hour (Umbrella PAYE)

Location: Gaydon

Contract: Inside IR35

Role Summary

An opportunity has arisen for a Computer Aided Design & Drafting specialist to deliver high-quality CAD/CAM/CAE engineering support across complex automotive programmes. The Computer Aided Design & Drafting role focuses on detailed design definition, digital modelling, manufacturability, and design verification, supporting the full product development lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Translate engineering requirements into detailed CAD/CAM/CAE drawings, layouts, and simulation models
• Digitise, edit, revise, and control engineering drawings for components, parts, and assemblies
• Capture, define, and control GD&T information and significant and critical characteristics
• Coordinate with engineering teams to define suitable materials for sub-components
• Perform calculations and testing to support fixing design, including adhesives and fasteners
• Design components to ensure robust manufacturability
• Design jigs and fixtures to support assembly processes
• Customise CAD/CAM/CAE tools to support complex or unusual design solutions
• Create digital prototypes and conduct simulations to verify reliability, safety, and performance
• Recommend design improvements based on digital prototyping and simulation outcomes
• Provide materials lists and cost estimates where required
• Ensure all applicable engineering and design standards are met throughout design maturation
• Manage design verification test plans and support engineering test teams with issue rectification
• Work with supplier teams to develop fix and resolution plans for hardware issues
• Undertake additional duties as directed by the line manager

Requirements

• Strong CAD capability to design and manipulate mechanical components, suitable for a Computer Aided Design & Drafting professional
• Detailed knowledge of GD&T and tolerance control
• Working knowledge of FMEA and significant/critical characteristics
• Experience of manufacturing processes including diecasting, injection moulding, machining, pressing, stamping, and painting
• Understanding of fixing methods with the ability to perform robustness calculations
• Knowledge of tooling design considerations and mould flow analysis
• Experience performing bolted joint and adhesive force calculations
• Awareness of noise factors that may degrade joint or adhesive performance
• Experience using CATIA or equivalent CAD packages
• Application of quality methodologies such as 8D, FMEA, FMEDA, or Fault Tree Analysis
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work independently, proactively, and take ownership of work
• Logical and structured problem-solving approach
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development
• Understanding of Design for Manufacturing and Design for Six Sigma principles

Apply Now

If you are an experienced Computer Aided Design & Drafting specialist looking to contribute to technically challenging engineering programmes, we would like to hear from you.

Please note, this role is deemed inside of IR35. The Umbrella Pay Rate offered is inclusive of the Assignment pay rate, holiday pay and Apex Recruitment’s contribution towards Employer Costs.