Industrial Fabrication Services (IFS), based in Lake Crystal, Minnesota, is a leading custom metal fabrication facility serving a diverse range of industrial clients across the United States and internationally. With an 80,000-square-foot facility and a dedicated team of approximately 115 professionals, IFS is committed to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions for general contractors, equipment manufacturers, mining companies, agricultural processors, and power generation facilities. Guided by core values of Service, Innovation, Respect, Value, and Craftsmanship, IFS offers a collaborative and supportive work environment where employees can grow their skills and contribute to impactful projects. As a CAD Designer at IFS, you will play a key role in transforming project requirements into precise, manufacturable drawings that drive the success of custom metal fabrication projects.
Responsibilities
- Create accurate 2D and 3D models, project drawings, approval drawings, and shop/fabrication drawings based on client requirements, engineering information, and project specifications.
- Collaborate with Project Managers, clients, and internal teams to understand project needs and resolve design or drawing questions.
- Review drawings, models, and specifications to identify missing information, conflicts, or manufacturability concerns.
- Develop detailed fabrication drawings, including assemblies, components, dimensions, materials, weld information, and other manufacturing requirements.
- Incorporate revisions accurately and maintain proper drawing and revision control throughout the project lifecycle.
- Design with manufacturability in mind, considering equipment capabilities, fabrication methods, material usage, assembly, quality, and efficiency.
- Provide timely support to shop-floor personnel by clarifying design intent, resolving discrepancies, and updating drawings as needed.
- Assist Project Management, Procurement, Manufacturing Engineering, vendors, and clients with technical questions related to drawings and materials.
- Maintain accurate drawing documentation, bills of material, material information, and related project records.
- Communicate missing information, design concerns, scope changes, or other project risks proactively to prevent production delays.
- Support continuous improvement of CAD standards, templates, drawing practices, and manufacturing handoffs.
- Follow all IFS safety requirements and perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in drafting, design, engineering technology, manufacturing, or a related technical field preferred; equivalent relevant experience will be considered.
- One to three years of experience in CAD design, fabrication, manufacturing, construction, mechanical design, or a related field preferred.
- Proficiency with 2D and 3D CAD/modeling software; experience with AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor preferred.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, shop drawings, weld symbols, dimensions, specifications, and manufacturing requirements.
- General understanding of custom metal fabrication and manufacturing processes preferred.
- Experience with ERP/MRP systems, bills of material, work orders, or manufacturing documentation preferred.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Adobe products.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, problem-solving, communication, and follow-through skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and changing priorities while working effectively with clients, office personnel, and shop employees.
- Ability to perform regular computer and CAD work, stand and walk through manufacturing areas, and occasionally lift items up to 25 pounds.
Benefits
- Competitive wage scale with profit-sharing eligibility after a 90-day introductory period.
- Eight paid holidays and paid time off.
- Comprehensive health insurance with employer-funded HRA; HSA/FSA, dental, and vision options available.
- $50,000 employer-paid life insurance and employer-paid long-term disability coverage.
- 401(k) retirement plan with company matching up to 5%.
- Optional supplemental life/disability and group accident/critical illness coverage.