Mechanical CAD Designer

IIT Bombay; Mumbai; On-site; INR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

IIT Bombay invites applications for a Project Research Staff – Mechanical Designer focusing on fixed-wing VTOL and composite structures. The role emphasizes converting OML surfaces into production CAD assemblies and integrating VTOL components, payload bays, and control linkages.

Candidates should have strong CAD skills, CFRP manufacturing knowledge, and experience with tooling, laminate structures, and cross-functional collaboration with aerodynamics and propulsion teams.

Qualifications

• MTech/ME or equivalent degree with relevant experience OR BTech/BE or equivalent degree with relevant experience (Aerospace, Mechanical, or Production Eng. preferred).
• High proficiency in advanced 3D CAD modeling suites for complex surfaces and assemblies.
• Hands-on knowledge of composite manufacturing processes including prepreg, resin infusion, and bladder molding.
• Experience with composite tooling design and laminate structures, including layup schedules and co-cured inserts.

Responsibilities

• Convert aerodynamic OML surfaces into production-ready CAD assemblies for fixed-wing VTOL airframes.
• Detail mechanical design of VTOL motor mounts, wing-fuselage latches, payload bay doors, and servo linkages.
• Design negative molds, trimming lines, and bladder mandrels for defect-free layup and demolding.
• Coordinate with fabrication shops and vendors to resolve layups, nesting, and integration issues.
• Document design iterations, weight tracking, and test procedures through engineering reports.

Skills

3D CAD modeling

Fixed-wing VTOL knowledge

Composite materials understanding

Aerospace engineering experience

Education

MTech/ME or equivalent

BTech/BE or equivalent

Tools

SolidWorks

CATIA Generative Shape Design

Siemens NX

PTC Creo

Job description

Project Research Staff – Mechanical Designer (Fixed-Wing VTOL & Composite Structures)

About the project:

The project funded by the Government focuses on developing and demonstrating advanced drone and allied technologies. The initiative addresses critical aerial delivery and long-endurance surveillance applications through high-efficiency hybrid fixed-wing VTOL platforms. Strong industry connections, precision composite manufacturing workflows, and collaborative test programs will be fostered to solve complex aerostructure challenges and drive technological self-reliance. Additionally, comprehensive drone operator training and technology transition programs will be conducted to ensure field operational proficiency.

Institute:

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Mumbai

Qualification and Key Skills Required:

• MTech/ME or equivalent degree with relevant experience OR BTech/BE or equivalent degree with relevant experience (Aerospace, Mechanical, or Production Engineering preferred).
• High proficiency in advanced 3D CAD modeling suites (SolidWorks, CATIA - Generative Shape Design/Composites Design, Siemens NX, or PTC Creo) for complex surface lofts, sheet metal, and solid assemblies.
• Hands-on knowledge of Design for Composite Manufacturing (DFM) using carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP), including prepreg/wet layup, vacuum debulking, resin infusion (VARTM), and bladder compression molding.
• Expertise in composite tooling design: split negative molds, core plugs, silicone expansion mandrels, CNC trim jigs, and bonded assembly fixtures.
• Practical understanding of composite laminate structures: ply schedules, fiber orientation, sandwich core materials (Rohacell/PVC foam, honeycomb), structural bonding pastes, and co-cured metallic inserts (bushings, hardpoints, standoffs).
• Understanding of fixed-wing VTOL flight physics, structural dynamics, mass balance/CG envelope control, composite material failure modes, and aero-structural vibration isolation.

Job Profile:

• Convert aerodynamic outer mold line (OML) surfaces into fully production-ready CAD assemblies for fixed-wing VTOL airframes.
• Detailed mechanical design and integration of VTOL motor boom mounts, wing-fuselage quick-disconnect latches, payload bay doors, control surface hinges, and servo linkages.
• Detailed design of negative composite molds, split-line parting geometry, draft angles, trim lines, and bladder mandrels to ensure defect-free composite layup and demolding.
• Define composite layup schedules, ply book manuals, core tapering transitions, co-cured insert tolerances, and secondary adhesive bonding sequences for composite technicians.
• Release comprehensive 2D manufacturing drawings adhering to ASME (GD&T) standards, specifying fit tolerances, bonded joints, and fastener torque metrics.
• Coordinate directly with composite fabrication shops and machining vendors to resolve layup deviations, optimize nesting efficiency, and oversee prototype airframe integration.
• Document design iterations, weight and balance tracking, tooling validations, and static structural test procedures through formal engineering reports.
• Collaborate with cross-functional aerodynamics, propulsion, and avionics teams to ensure seamless platform integration and payload readiness.
• Any other work assigned as per project requirements.