Associate Computer Aided Design Designer Jobs in Hoffman Estates, IL

We are seeking a skilled Designer to join our Design team. Depending on experience, candidates may be considered for either Level I (Designer) or Level II (Senior Designer) roles. In this position, you’ll collaborate with clients, contractors, engineers, and production teams to develop detailed drafting and documentation for architectural‑scale interior solutions using both premium and standard product lines.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys turning conceptual ideas into manufacturable and installable realities, working across the full lifecycle of projects—from early design to final production support

What You’ll Do:

Level I – Designer

Project Execution

• Develop drawings and documentation for all project phases, from design through engineering and handoff to production.
• Manage assigned projects through installation, ensuring smooth coordination and consistent progress.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams and communicate project timelines and needs to leadership.
• Ensure accuracy by verifying product layouts and communicating with project stakeholders.
• Create drafting packages following established design standards for use by Design, Engineering, and Production.

Client & Team Collaboration

• Participate in client discussions alongside team leadership.
• Package complete project specifications and documentation.
• Balance client requirements with manufacturability and product capabilities.
• Support development of custom design solutions, including hands‑on prototyping to validate feasibility.
• Seek peer review to ensure quality and accuracy.

Internal Contributions

• Support internal initiatives, special projects, and product development activities.
• Maintain organized digital project files and documentation.
• Provide on‑site support on the Production and Assembly floor as scheduled.
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative studio environment.

Level II – Sr Designer

Level II Designers perform all Level I responsibilities with additional autonomy, leadership, and project complexity.

Project Leadership

• Lead the creation of drawings and documentation across the full project lifecycle—from early design concepts through engineering and production.
• Operate as the primary owner of assigned projects, typically working independently.
• Review and approve drawings created by others to ensure accuracy and quality.
• Mentor peers and support training for new team members.
• Manage high‑volume or high‑complexity projects, coordinating workflows across teams.
• Propose and implement adjustments to drawing standards when needed to support project outcomes.

Technical & Client Responsibilities

• Develop proposal drawings, shop drawings, installation documents, engineering content, and BOMs.
• Validate design intent by reviewing client documents and identifying risks or inconsistencies.
• Communicate and document changes throughout the drawing process.
• Coordinate closely with estimating, project coordination, and production teams.
• Lead design‑focused discussions in client meetings, document outcomes, and integrate feedback.
• Prototype custom solutions and independently coordinate findings with internal stakeholders.

Internal Impact

• Support questions related to machining, materials, engineering constraints, timelines, and hardware.
• Explore design ideas, assist teammates, and contribute to process improvements.
• Collaborate across departments as needed for development work or special initiatives.

Who You Are

• Experienced in drafting for architectural, industrial, or product‑focused design.
• Skilled at interpreting construction documents, sketches, and design intent.
• Comfortable working with multiple stakeholders across design, engineering, and production.
• Detail oriented, organized, and quality driven.
• A strong communicator who thrives in a collaborative, hands‑on environment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Windows Applications, including Microsoft Office and operating systems. 
• Comfortable in high tolerance CAD/CAM production via CNC, as well as the production of shop drawings. Knowledge of digital fabrication techniques as well as CNC and/or prototyping experience is necessary.
• Ability to read and translate construction documents, ideation and form development, knowledge of materials and manufacturing process, firsthand experience in mock-ups, prototyping & mechanical aptitude.
• Able to prioritize and manage project deadlines.
• Proficient in Rhino 3D and Adobe CC (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator) required.
• Excellent communication and people skills; collaborator. 
• Initiative-taker with a strong ability to multi-task and juggle multiple responsibilities.

Education and/or Experience

• Associate or bachelor’s degree in architecture, industrial design, or a related field.  MA preferred for Levels II but not required.
• Minimum 1-3 years’ (Level I) experience in architecture and/or product design.
• Minimum 3-5 years’ (Levels II) experience in architecture and/or product design.
• Experience with Grasshopper/Dynamo, Revit/AutoCAD preferred.  Visualization skills in vRay, 3DS Max, etc. a plus.