Computer Aided Design Apprentice Jobs in Allen, TX

Job Title: CAD Designer

Location: Dallas, TX (*Local candidates. Hybrid – Initial onsite training, then approximately 2 days/week remote)

Pay Rate: $31–$35/hr + Weekly Pay + Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision)

Duration: Long-Term Contract (Ongoing- based on performance)

Schedule: Full-time, Monday–Friday

Our client is one of North America's leading providers of rail transportation products and services. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, the company designs, manufactures, maintains, and leases railcars that support essential industries across the United States. They are known for its commitment to innovation, engineering excellence, safety, and continuous improvement.

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented CAD Designer to join a collaborative Engineering team supporting the design and development of manufacturing products. This individual will work closely with Project Engineers and fellow CAD Designers to create, revise, and maintain engineering drawings and 3D models. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established team where several contractors have remained for multiple years, with opportunities for long-term growth and even permanent employment.

The ideal candidate is someone who values accuracy over speed, has strong attention to detail, enjoys working collaboratively, and has experience with 2D and/or 3D CAD software. While Autodesk Inventor experience is preferred, candidates with similar CAD software experience are encouraged to apply.

***Training provided for the right candidate****

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Project Engineers and the CAD team to create, revise, and maintain engineering drawings and 3D models.
• Develop large assembly drawings, detailed component drawings, layouts, and sketches from engineering markups, concept drawings, and project discussions.
• Create and modify accurate engineering documentation using Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, or similar CAD software.
• Convert existing 2D drawings into complete 3D models and production drawing packages.
• Create detailed manufacturing drawings while following company CAD standards and engineering specifications.
• Interpret engineering concepts, technical requirements, and manufacturing specifications to produce accurate documentation.
• Apply knowledge of manufacturing processes, drafting principles, engineering practices, mathematics, and building materials throughout the design process.
• Review drawings for accuracy, completeness, dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturability before release.
• Support engineering change requests (ECOs), drawing revisions, and documentation updates.
• Maintain organized CAD files utilizing document management systems such as Autodesk Vault.
• Communicate effectively with engineers, project teams, and stakeholders to ensure timely completion of deliverables.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and maintain knowledge of evolving CAD technologies.
• Occasionally support prototype development and 3D printing initiatives as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Mechanical Drafting & Design, Engineering Technology, or equivalent experience.
• 2-7 years of CAD drafting/design experience in a manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Experience creating 2D drawings and/or 3D models using AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, or similar CAD software.
• Some experience creating engineering drawings, layouts, assemblies, and production documentation.
• Some experience converting 2D drawings into 3D models or supporting 3D modeling projects or ability to learn
• Strong understanding of mechanical drafting principles, dimensions, tolerances, and manufacturing documentation.
• *Strong attention to detail with the ability to produce highly accurate work (accuracy is more important than speed).
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy-focused mindset.
• Previous experience working with engineering teams or similar teams in a very collaboratively environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Ability to pass CAD skills assessment

Bonus Qualifications – or ability to learn

• Experience using Autodesk Vault.
• Experience creating large assembly drawings.
• Previous experience working with engineering teams
• Experience supporting manufacturing or industrial engineering environments.
• Experience with engineering change orders (ECOs/ECNs).
• Exposure to 3D printing technologies or interested in learning.