Freelance Technical Designer

Cavendish Professionals; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 34,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

Cavendish Professionals is seeking a Senior Technical Designer (Freelance) in Milton Keynes to lead SolidWorks CAD development for brand experiences, bespoke installations and retail environments. You will collaborate with design and fabrication teams to deliver high-quality, manufacturable solutions while upholding safety and sustainability standards.

Ideal candidates bring expert SolidWorks and CAD skills, plus experience with 3D rendering tools and knowledge of fabrication methods.

Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks and CAD in design and fabrication environments.
• Familiarity with 3D rendering tools (Cinema 4D or KeyShot) is desirable.
• Understanding of tooling, machining, fabrication and materials.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine concepts from ideas through to technical detail and CAD development.
• Collaborate with project management, design and fabrication teams to optimise delivery.
• Oversee prototyping, testing and production on live projects.
• Provide technical project support through design and manufacture stages.
• Ensure designs are practical, cost-effective and manufacturable.
• Maintain health & safety, quality and sustainability practices across projects.
• Mentor junior designers and support studio operations.

Tools

SolidWorks

CAD

Fusion 360

Adobe Creative Suite

Cinema 4D

KeyShot

3D printing

Machining

Job description

Freelance Technical Designer (SolidWorks)

We are seeking an experienced Senior Technical Designer to join a creative fabrication and design studio specialising in brand experiences, bespoke installations, retail environments, exhibitions, and commercial fit-outs.

The studio delivers innovative, design-led projects ranging from one-off experiential pieces to full-scale commercial installations. Combining skilled craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, the team places a strong emphasis on quality, innovation, and sustainable production.

Core Knowledge & Experience

• Excellent knowledge of SolidWorks, CAD, Fusion 360, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Experience with 3D printing and rendering software, such as Cinema 4D or KeyShot, is desirable.
• Strong knowledge of tooling, machining, fabrication, and materials.
• Good understanding of electrical and electronic systems is desirable.
• Ability to interpret, develop, and produce technical packs and documentation from external sources.
• Excellent understanding of Health & Safety standards and best practices.
• Awareness of sustainable materials, manufacturing processes, and production methods.
• Strong understanding of design-for-manufacture and practical fabrication processes.

Core Areas of Responsibility

• Develop and refine concepts from initial ideas through to technical detail, CAD development, and presentation.
• Collaborate closely with project management, design, and fabrication teams to optimise processes and ensure high-quality delivery within agreed timescales.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and production across live projects.
• Provide technical project management support throughout all stages of design, development, and manufacture.
• Ensure designs are practical, efficient, cost-effective, and suitable for manufacture and installation.
• Maintain a strong focus on Health & Safety, quality, and sustainable working practices.

Main Duties

• Manage allocated design projects from CAD development and presentation through to final realisation.
• Liaise with design leads, artworkers, project managers, fabricators, and suppliers to ensure technical and creative alignment.
• Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and technical drawings for manufacture.
• Produce accurate technical documentation and manufacturing information.
• Present and communicate design solutions effectively to internal teams, clients, and production partners.
• Conduct site surveys, measurements, and technical assessments where required.
• Support installation activities and provide technical input during on-site delivery.
• Identify and resolve technical challenges throughout the design and production process.
• Mentor and support junior designers and technical staff, contributing to smooth and efficient studio operations.
• Promote and uphold Health & Safety, quality, and sustainability policies across all project activities.