CAD Design Lead

Hanwha Defense USA, Inc.; Huntsville, Northern (AL, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Hanwha Defense USA, Inc. in Huntsville, AL seeks a CAD Design Lead to oversee 3D and 2D design of ground vehicle systems, ensuring compliance with aerospace standards and DoD processes.

You will deploy PLM tools, maintain configuration management, and guide a team of CAD engineers through complex programs. The role emphasizes leadership, rigorous design reviews, cross‑functional collaboration with engineers and government stakeholders, and ongoing process improvement to boost efficiency and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering.
• 10+ years in aerospace/defense CAD with leadership.
• Expert in CATIA, NX, or SolidWorks and GD&T.
• Experience with DoD standards, regulations and acquisition.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead CAD design development for 3D models and drawings.
• Interface with CAD managers to transition designs.
• Participate in technical meetings with stakeholders.
• Collaborate with engineers and analysts to resolve design issues.
• Ensure designs meet aerospace standards and safety requirements.
• Review and approve CAD deliverables for production.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster design excellence.
• Maintain design records and report progress.

Skills

CAD design leadership

GD&T

DoD acquisition knowledge

PLM deployment

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CATIA

NX

SolidWorks

Job description

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.

Travel Required: Yes

Position Summary

The CAD Design Lead is responsible for leading the creation, review, and optimization of detailed 3D and 2D designs for ground combat vehicle systems and components. This role combines advanced CAD expertise with leadership skills to ensure designs meet stringent aerospace standards, requirements, safety requirements, and achieve project objectives. The CAD Design Lead will also play a key role in the deployment Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools and processes, maintain the product structure, and ensure the configuration management of the As-Designed, As-Built, and As-Maintained configuration of the platform.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Lead CAD Design Development: Oversee the creation and refinement of 3D models and technical drawings for aircraft, spacecraft, or other aerospace systems using advanced CAD software (e.g., CATIA, NX, SolidWorks).
• Interface with other CAD managers to transition designs to HDUSA.
• Participate in technical interchange meetings with government representatives, subcontractors, and program stakeholders.
• Collaborate Across Teams: Work with design engineers, analysts, and other disciplines to interpret specifications, integrate systems, and resolve design challenges.
• Ensure Compliance: Verify designs meet aerospace engineering standards, regulations (e.g., AS9100, MIL-STD-31000), and safety requirements.
• Ensure Technical Data Packages comply with DI-SESS-81830, DI-SESS-81000F, and DI-SESS-80776B.
• Review & Approve Designs: Conduct quality control checks, validate accuracy, and approve CAD deliverables before production.
• Optimize Processes: Improve CAD workflows, design standards, and best practices to increase efficiency and consistency.
• Mentor & Train: Guide junior CAD engineers, provide technical training, and foster a culture of excellence.
• Document & Report: Maintain comprehensive design records, participate in design reviews, and report progress to stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field; advanced degrees or PE certification preferred.
• Experience: Minimum 10+ years in aerospace or defense CAD design, with progressive leadership responsibilities.
• Technical Skills: Expertise in advanced CAD software, GD&T, and possibly FEA or rapid prototyping.
• Professional experience within the U.S. defense sector, including familiarity with DoD acquisition processes, standards, and regulations.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to communicate technical information clearly in written and verbal formats.
• Ability to travel as required by program needs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Active DoD security clearance or the ability to obtain one.
• Experience with military ground vehicle systems or platform level CAD maintenance and the deployment and maintenance of PLM systems.
• Prior experience supporting large, complex defense acquisition programs or major system integrations.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.