Mechanical Designer

North Wind; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

North Wind, located in Saint Paul, is seeking a talented professional for CAD modeling and engineering drawing roles relevant to wind tunnels and hypersonic systems. The successful candidate will work closely with engineers on developing custom parts and assemblies, applying industry standards to create high-quality designs.

With at least 5 years of practical drafting experience, candidates must hold an Associate's degree and be proficient in 3D CAD software, preferably SolidWorks. This position offers a dynamic work environment where collaborative skills and technical knowledge are key to success.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in designs and drafting in aerospace or similar roles.
• Proficiency with mechanical systems and weldments is preferred.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Responsibilities

• Create detailed CAD models for mechanical parts and assemblies.
• Draft detailed manufacturing drawings following GD&T standards.
• Manage the drawing and BOM release process effectively.
• Select commercially available parts to optimize efficiency.
• Coordinate with engineers to ensure cohesive project execution.
• Provide guidance to teams related to fabrication and assembly.

Skills

3D CAD modeling

Mechanical systems knowledge

Proficiency with GD&T

Ability to work collaboratively

Prioritization skills

Education

Associate's degree in related fields

Tools

SolidWorks

PDM systems

Job description

About North Wind: North Wind is a leading independent supplier of complex hypersonic Research, Development, Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) systems and services. Leveraging decades of specialized experience, North Wind delivers hypersonic and RDT&E capabilities through five complementary business segments: Applied R&D; Test Articles and Critical System Components; Test Facility Design & Build; Test Services; Flight Testing & Flight Systems. The Company’s offerings span the full life cycle of aerospace & defense and commercial systems, including end-to-end turnkey solutions. Learn more at www.north-wind.com.

Summary: Develop and release CAD models and engineering drawings for mechanical parts and assemblies used in wind tunnels and hypersonic ground test systems. This role works closely with engineers and designers across Controls Engineering, Software, Facilities Engineering, AeroThermal, and other departments to deliver predominantly custom, one‑off components for new facilities and major upgrades to existing installations.

Responsibilities

• CAD Modeling (35%) - Create detailed models for fabricated parts and purchased parts using parametric and associative modeling techniques. The mechanical subsystems include welded steel structures, pressure vessels, piping systems, simple and complex mechanisms, rotating equipment, and process equipment (pneumatic, hydraulic, fuel, and cooling water). Check fits and clearances for both assembly and normal operating conditions. Provide initial sizing and layout definition in close collaboration with Engineer. Assist with models for analysis and model views for design review slides (or reports).
• Drawing/Drafting (30%) - Create detailed fabrication drawings from linked models using drawing templates and internal standards (Y14.5 based) to define manufacturing, assembly, and quality requirements. Responsibilities include applying appropriate GD&T, and developing complete drawings notes, dimensions, and tolerances. Selecting tolerances aligned with part function and manufacturing capability. Incorporating redlines from Engineering, Document Control, Assembly, and Field Service and performing verification of existing equipment when required.
• Drawing Release & BOM (10%) - Manage the drawing and BOM (Bill of Material) release process. Initiate the release workflow found in PDM (Product Data Management). Document changes through clear revision control notations and use the ECN (Engineering Change Notice) process when appropriate. Communicate to applicable parties (procurement, project management, sub-contract managers) when drawings are available.
• Part Selection (15%) - Identify, research and select commercially available parts when appropriate to minimize need for custom fabrications.
• Budget and Schedule Management (5%) - Prioritizes tasks and minimize rework to ensure projects stay within labor budgets and schedule. Coordinate with Lead Engineer to ensure cohesiveness while remaining accountable on drawing release commitments.
• Support (5%) - Provides guidance to fabrication, procurement, assembly and installation teams and support updates to models and drawings (redlines, lessons learned, improvements and reoccurring non-conformances).

Preferred Education / Experience

• Associate’s degree, or technical diploma in Designer/Drafting related fields.
• 5+ years of practical work experience in designs and drafting in aerospace or similar roles with large industrial equipment or facilities.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD modeling. SolidWorks experience preferred.
• A combination of education and experience equivalent to the above.
• Due to security requirements, US Person status is required.

Preferred Knowledge / Ability

• Must be a self-starter, able to work on multiple projects, and prioritize workload.
• Experience with mechanical systems and weldments.
• Familiarity with PDM and ERP systems. SolidWorks PDM and Costpoint experience preferred.
• Proficiency with GD&T and ANSI Y14.5 drafting standards.
• General knowledge of fabrication methods including forming, welding, machining, and additive manufacturing.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills and positive attitude.
• Able to work collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary team.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally. Travel typically is less than 10%.