Computer Drafting Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: CAD Technician

Job Description

This CAD Technician position focuses on producing detailed 2D drawings for custom industrial safety cages, machine guards, and partitions, primarily serving automotive clients. You will work in a predominantly design-focused role, using Configura (a 2D CAD tool similar to AutoCAD) to translate concepts and requirements into accurate, build-ready drawings. This is an excellent entry-level opportunity for someone with foundational drafting skills who wants to gain hands-on experience in a supportive, laid-back environment while building strong CAD and customer-facing capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Use 2D Configura software (similar to AutoCAD) to create accurate and detailed drawings for custom industrial safety cages, machine guards, and partitions.
• Interpret engineering concepts, blueprints, and design requirements to produce clear and precise drafting documentation.
• Collaborate closely with internal engineering and design teams to ensure drawings meet technical specifications and functional requirements.
• Support automotive clients by translating their needs into practical, manufacturable design solutions.
• Maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail in all drawings and revisions.
• Update and revise drawings based on feedback from customers, engineers, and internal stakeholders.
• Provide professional customer interaction and interface, representing the organization effectively in all communications.
• Ensure that all design work aligns with project timelines and quality standards.
• Organize, manage, and archive drafting files and documentation in an orderly and accessible manner.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of drafting processes and design standards within the team.

Essential Skills

• 0–2 years of drafting experience in a professional or academic setting.
• Proficiency with 2D CAD tools, specifically Configura or similar software such as AutoCAD.
• Hands-on experience with AutoCAD 2D, gained either through formal education or on-the-job practice.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and understanding of mechanical design concepts.
• Ability to read, interpret, and produce technical drawings and blueprints.
• Effective customer interaction skills, including clear communication and professional demeanor.
• Demonstrated professionalism when interfacing with customers and representing the organization.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in drafting and design work.
• Basic understanding of engineering and design principles related to industrial applications.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Drafting certificate or Associate of Science (AS) degree in drafting or a closely related field.
• Experience working with mechanical design or mechanical drafting projects.
• Customer service experience, particularly in a technical or engineering environment.
• Familiarity with industrial safety products such as safety cages, machine guards, and partitions.
• Ability to manage multiple design tasks and adapt to changing project priorities.
• Willingness to learn new tools, processes, and design standards as needed.

Work Environment

This role is based in a small, collaborative shop that designs and manufactures safety cages, machine guards, and partitions for industrial applications. The atmosphere is laid back and supportive, making it a strong fit for entry-level candidates or individuals still building their experience. You will spend the majority of your time in a head-down design capacity, focused on drafting and CAD work for automotive and industrial clients. The organization offers flexibility in working hours, particularly for those who may still be in school. The position requires working on-site five days per week initially, with the opportunity to transition to a hybrid arrangement of up to two remote days per week after approximately two to three months, once dependability and performance are demonstrated. The environment emphasizes practical, hands-on design work, professional customer interaction, and steady skill development in CAD and mechanical drafting.

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Portland, TN.

The pay range for this position is $23.00 - $28.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Portland,TN.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 27, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.