Computer Aided Design Apprentice Jobs in Tempe, AZ

Join Axon and be a Force for Good.
At Axon, we're on a mission to Protect Life. We're explorers, pursuing society's most critical safety and justice issues with our ecosystem of devices and cloud software. Like our products, we work better together. We connect with candor and care, seeking out diverse perspectives from our customers, communities and each other.
Life at Axon is fast-paced, challenging and meaningful. Here, you'll take ownership and drive real change. Constantly grow as you work hard for a mission that matters at a company where you matter.
Location: Phoenix, AZ (On-site)
Your Impact:
Axon Enterprise is seeking a CAD & Fabrication Specialist to join our team. In this role, you'll be responsible for taking napkin sketches and bringing them to reality. You will create and optimize designs for fabrication and construction, develop detailed 2D and 3D models, and oversee fabrication processes including CNC operations and 3D printing. You'll work closely with project leads to coordinate and streamline workflows in a fast-paced, maker-space environment where your expertise directly shapes the physical output of creative and technical projects.
What You'll Do:
CAD Modeling & Technical Drawings

• Serve as the primary CAD designer, creating 2D and 3D models for approved projects.
• Develop fabrication-ready models from scratch based on project specifications and input from leads and managers.
• Ensure all CAD work aligns with manufacturing feasibility and project requirements.
• Oversee the organization and management of CAD files, ensuring accessibility and proper documentation.

Digital Fabrication & 3D Printing

• Manage all 3D printing operations, including modeling, file preparation, printing, post-processing, and machine maintenance.
• Ensure 3D prints meet quality standards and are optimized for functionality.
• Oversee the maintenance and troubleshooting of 3D printers to ensure continuous operation.

Fabrication Planning & Method Development

• Work in a Maker Space type of environment.
• Determine primary fabrication methods for each project based on discussions with managers and leads.
• Direct the fabrication shop technician and assistant CAD draftsman to execute fabrication strategies efficiently.
• Collaborate with project leads to establish efficient and cost-effective production workflows.

CNC & CAM Programming

• Run CAM operations and program toolpaths for CNC machines, including the CNC router, hot wire, and Frog Mill.
• Assist in CNC machine troubleshooting, setup, and operation during peak workload periods.

Equipment Maintenance & Oversight

• Ensure all digital fabrication machines (CNCs, 3D printers, and laser cutters) are properly maintained and running efficiently.
• Coordinate repairs and servicing for CNCs, 3D printers, and other digital fabrication equipment as needed.

Project Leadership & Team Coordination

• Act as the initial point of contact for all CAD-related work, ensuring all projects start with properly developed CAD files.
• Oversee and guide the assistant team technicians and fabrication team on technical execution.
• Become familiar with the previous Lead role to transition into key responsibilities over time.
• Be prepared to work overtime when necessary to ensure projects meet deadlines.

Software & Workflow Management

• Ensure all CAD, CAM, and fabrication processes are carried out using SolidWorks, Creo, or Fusion 360.
• Maintain an organized workflow to optimize CAD-to-fabrication processes and reduce errors.

What You'll Bring:

• 5+ years of experience in CAD modeling, digital fabrication, and CNC machining, preferably in a themed fabrication, experiential design, or manufacturing environment.
• Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks (primary software); experience with Fusion 360 and Creo also valued.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing/fabrication processes, materials, and fabrication feasibility (preferably in themed fabrication).
• Hands-on experience with CNC machining and CAM programming (CNC router, laser cutter, table saw, plasma cutter).
• Experience with 3D printing operations, including file preparation, printing, and post-processing.
• Knowledge of fabrication planning, workflow optimization, and cost-effective production strategies.
• Proven ability to lead a team of technicians and fabrication technicians, providing guidance and support.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with GD&T preferred.
• Some construction knowledge a plus.
• Ability to work overtime as needed to meet project deadlines.

Additional Preferred Skills

• Experience with surface modeling.
• Experience with 3D slicer software for 3D prints.
• Other skill sets or familiarity associated with mechanical fabrication and construction.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Benefits that Benefit You

• Competitive salary, bonus, RSUs, and 401k with employer match.
• Discretionary paid time off.
• Paid parental leave for all.
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans.
• Fitness Programs.
• Emotional & Mental Wellness support.
• Learning & Development programs.
• And yes, we have snacks in our offices.

Benefits listed herein may vary depending on the nature of your employment and the location where you work.
Don't meet every single requirement? That's ok. At Axon, we Aim Far. We think big with a long-term view because we want to reinvent the world to be a safer, better place. We are also committed to building diverse teams that reflect the communities we serve.
Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they check every box in the job description. If you're excited about this role and our mission to Protect Life but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification listed here, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
Important Notes
The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all duties, responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job. The job description may change or be supplemented at any time in accordance with business needs and conditions.
Some roles may also require legal eligibility to work in a firearms environment.
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Axon's mission is to Protect Life and is committed to the well-being and safety of its employees as well as Axon's impact on the environment. All Axon employees must be aware of and committed to the appropriate environmental, health, and safety regulations, policies, and procedures. Axon employees are empowered to report safety concerns as they arise and activities potentially impacting the environment.
We are an equal opportunity employer that promotes justice, advances equity, values diversity and fosters inclusion. We're committed to hiring the best talent - regardless of race, creed, color, ancestry, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances - and empowering all of our employees so they can do their best work. If you have a disability or special need that requires assistance or accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please email recruitingops@axon.com. Please note that this email address is for accommodation purposes only. Axon will not respond to inquiries for other purposes.
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