Computer Aided Design Assistant Jobs in Ashburn, VA

Position Summary

Autocraft Group Inc. is seeking an experienced Autodesk Inventor Designer with a practical engineering and manufacturing background. This position is responsible for creating accurate 3D models, detailed fabrication drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and production-ready documentation for custom vehicle and fabricated product manufacturing. The ideal candidate will have advanced hands-on experience with Autodesk Inventor and working knowledge of nested CAM software programs such as SigmaNEST.

The role works closely with production, fabrication, purchasing, and project teams to convert customer and production requirements into complete, manufacturable design packages. The position requires strong attention to detail, practical problem-solving skills, and the ability to support design revisions, engineering changes, and manufacturing improvements.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Design

• Create and revise 3D models, assemblies, shop drawings, fabrication drawings, and production documentation using Autodesk Inventor.
• Prepare accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs), cut lists, and supporting documentation for engineering, purchasing, and production use.
• Review designs for fit, function, manufacturability, and practical fabrication requirements.
• Support engineering changes, design revisions, and drawing updates throughout the production process.

Manufacturing & CAM Support

• Prepare manufacturing-ready files for CNC, laser, plasma, and fabrication operations.
• Create and adjust nesting programs using SigmaNEST or comparable CAM software to support efficient material utilization.
• Coordinate with production teams to resolve design-related manufacturing questions and reduce rework or material waste.
• Assist with troubleshooting manufacturing issues and support corrective design updates as needed.
• Provide technical input on CAD/CAM workflow improvements, software use, and manufacturing documentation practices.

Design Support & Collaboration

• Support assigned projects from concept through fabrication by preparing accurate models, drawings, revisions, and production documentation.
• Work with internal teams to clarify requirements, resolve design details, and support practical engineering solutions.
• Assist with material takeoffs, BOM accuracy, and documentation needed for purchasing and production planning.
• Recommend practical design improvements that improve fit, function, manufacturability, material utilization, or ease of fabrication.
• Perform other design, drafting, engineering support, and documentation duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

Preferred:

• Associate degree or bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Industrial Design, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field preferred.
• Relevant work experience and demonstrated technical expertise may be considered in lieu of formal education.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on Autodesk Inventor experience in a design, drafting, engineering support, manufacturing, or CAD/CAM environment.
• Experience working in a fabrication, manufacturing, or custom-built product environment preferred.
• Experience supporting CNC cutting, fabrication, and welding operations.

Technical Skills

Required:

• Advanced proficiency with Autodesk Inventor.
• Strong knowledge of engineering drawings, dimensional tolerancing, and manufacturing processes.
• Working knowledge of SigmaNEST or comparable nesting/CAM software.
• Understanding of CNC machining, laser cutting, plasma cutting, and fabrication processes.
• Ability to create and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Strong understanding of material properties, sheet metal fabrication, and practical manufacturing methods.

Preferred:

• Experience with Autodesk Vault, AI and efficiency tools.
• Familiarity with ERP/MRP systems.
• Familiarity with process improvement and lean manufacturing principles.

Desired Competencies

• Advanced hands-on design and drafting capability with strong technical judgment.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical abilities.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work on multiple design assignments while maintaining accuracy and meeting production needs.
• Organized, dependable, and able to maintain clear design files, revisions, and supporting documentation.
• Quality-focused with a practical approach to continuous improvement.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in both office and manufacturing environments.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to walk production floors and inspect manufacturing operations as needed.

Benefits Summary

• 7 Paid Holidays
• 4 Weeks Paid Vacation
• Group Term Life: Company Paid
• Health Insurance: Company Pays 1⁄2 of the employee rate.
• Dental Insurance: Company Pays 1⁄2 of the employee rate.
• Vision Insurance: Company Pays 1⁄2 of the employee rate.
• Accident Insurance: Employee Paid
• Critical Illness Insurance: Employee Paid
• Voluntary Life Insurance: Employee Paid
• Simple IRA: Company will match up to 3% of employee’s contributions.

Autocraft Group Inc. is a holding company for multiple brands delivering vehicle sales and service, vehicle customizations and custom cabinetry for use by first responders. Our clients include fire departments, EMS agencies, police and the federal government to name a few. We are dedicated to quality and are poised in the market as a national leader in providing custom solutions at a production price point.

Autocraft has been in business since 1997 and is owned and operated by first responders providing vehicle and custom services for first responders so we know exactly how these vehicles should be built.