Distribution CAD Operator 3

GAI Consultants Inc.; Collegeville (PA); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Health benefits

Paid time off

401(k) matching

Job summary

GAI Consultants, Inc. is seeking a Distribution CAD Operator 3 to design and permit distribution lines, lead CAD design tasks, and mentor junior staff. This role supports field visits and coordination with the Distribution group.

You'll work remotely with occasional office visits to the local GAI office as needed, apply CAD standards, and contribute to project delivery in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to mentor entry-level staff and QA/QC responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Design and permit distribution lines; prepare drawings and BOMs; order materials.
• Lead field visits and use information to create drawings.
• Train and mentor junior staff; QA/QC responsibilities.
• Utilize CAD software to create overhead/underground distribution designs.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Excellent communication

Team leadership

Education

Associate Degree from an accredited Technical School or equivalent experience

Tools

CAD software

Job description

GAI Consultants, Inc. is seeking a Distribution CAD Operator 3 reporting to our Distribution group. The ideal candidate has good analytical thinking, problem-solving techniques, computer-aided drafting (CAD) experience, and excellent communication skills. The successful candidate will be able to work remote and go into the local GAI office as needed.

Job Duties

• With minimal supervision, design and permit distribution lines, including drawing preparation, bill of materials development, material ordering, and conducting field visits.
• Train and mentor entry-level staff as well as QA/QC responsibilities
• Ability to lead field visits and use information to create drawings.
• With minimal supervision, utilize various software to create overhead and underground electrical distribution designs.
• Follow local utility and construction standards.
• Ability to learn, retain and apply on the job training and use design software packages efficiently.
• Ability to work effectively in design teams.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize work.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be flexible to handle shifting deadlines and scope changes.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to lead a team of designers.
• Other duties as assigned.

General Characteristics

• Accountable for time management and forecasting budget, scope, and deadlines. Demonstrates advanced knowledge of CADskills. Focuses on quality. Performs self-reviews of work. Corrects errors beforesubmitting work to others for review. Demonstrates ability to work concurrently withnumerous project and personnel

Minimum Years of Experience

• 8+ Years of Experience

Education

• Associate Degree from an accredited Technical School orequivalent experience

Technical Responsibilities

• Able to complete complex analyses and presentations. Reviews finished products for compliance with company standards and procedures. Assists with CAD checks and internal reviews. Assists with written procedures and training of staff for procedural changes

Management Responsibility

• Provides Significant oversight andmentoring to lower-level CADOperators
• Given general instructions andworks independently with minimal supervision. Receives general review ofproject work

Communication Skills

• Possess excellent communication skills. Facilitates interaction between staff; able to effectively coach and mentor lower-level CAD Staff

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work indoors in professional office settings.
• Ability to sit for extended periods while performing computer-based tasks.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling office equipment.
• Visual acuity to read printed materials, digital screens, detailed documents, and perform detailed work.
• Occasional standing, walking, bending, or reaching within the office environment. Ability to move between workstations and attend in-person meetings.
• Ability to lift and carry office materials or equipment weighing up to 10-20 pounds, with or without assistance.
• Adequate hearing to participate in conversations, phone calls, and virtual meetings.
• Ability to travel for meetings, training, or business purposes.

Why GAI?

GAI offers an exceptional place to do meaningful work, grow your career, and make a real impact in communities nationwide. You'll join a collaborative, multidisciplinary firm bringing together engineering, planning, and environmental expertise to deliver projects across transportation, infrastructure, power, and energy markets. Working alongside accomplished colleagues, you'll help move projects from vision through construction, creating solutions that keep people moving, power essential systems, and support responsible development.

At GAI, you'll work in a team-driven environment grounded in integrity, respect, and shared success, with the flexibility, resources, and career support that reflect a real and lasting commitment to our people. That commitment includes comprehensive benefits, wellness programs, and employee discounts. With opportunities across the U.S., GAI offers the collaboration and client focus of regional teams, supported by the stability, resources, and career-development opportunities of an established and growing firm.

Benefits To Working at GAI Include:

Competitive Pay & Recognition

• Market based, competitive compensation
• Performance driven recognition and development bonuses

Comprehensive Health & Wellness

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• Company-paid short-term and long-term disability
• Company-paid life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program and wellness resources

Meaningful Work-Life Balance

• Generous paid time off + 7 paid holidays
• An additional floating holiday-use it for what matters to you
• Paid maternity, paternity, and adoption leave

Growth, Learning & Financial Security

• 401(k) with company match
• Tuition reimbursement
• Support and rewards for professional development and certifications

GAI

Qualifications

Education

Associates of Drafting (preferred)

Licenses & Certifications

Driver's License (required)

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.