What are the responsibilities and job description for the Frame CAD Designer position at Design Foundry?
Product Development CAD Frame Designer
Job Summary
The Product Development CAD Frame Designer is responsible for creating detailed and accurate computer-aided design (CAD) models and drawings of furniture frames for upholstered products, including sofas, chairs, sectionals, and ottomans. This role ensures that frame designs meet customer specifications, production feasibility, and structural integrity while aligning with the company’s quality and cost goals. As a CAD Frame Designer, you embody our core values: We Are Family, We Own It, We Give Our All, and We Have Fun, fostering collaboration, accountability, and innovation in a positive and engaging work environment.
Department and Reporting Structure
- Department: Product Development
- Reports To: Director of Product Development
- Direct Reports: None
Key Responsibilities
- We Own It: Design and develop detailed CAD models and technical drawings for furniture frames, ensuring accuracy and compliance with specifications and manufacturing standards.
- We Give Our All: Collaborate with engineers, product developers, and production teams to refine designs and ensure structural integrity, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
- We Are Family: Work closely with the prototyping and production teams to address design challenges and provide solutions that align with manufacturing capabilities.
- Create 2D and 3D CAD drawings, including dimensions, materials, joinery details, and assembly instructions for each frame design.
- Conduct design reviews to ensure frames meet customer requirements, company quality standards, and durability expectations.
- We Have Fun: Foster a creative and collaborative work environment that encourages innovative ideas and solutions.
- Update and maintain a library of CAD drawings and design files for reference and future projects.
- Stay current with industry trends, materials, and technologies to enhance frame design processes and outcomes.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Furniture Design, or a related field is preferred. Associate degree with relevant CAD experience may also be considered.
Experience
- Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in CAD design, preferably in furniture manufacturing or a related industry.
- Must have a minimum of 3 years working with upholstery frames.
- 5 years applicable experience in-lieu of education
Skills
- Proficiency in CAD software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar tools, with strong 2D and 3D modeling skills.
- Knowledge of furniture frame design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
- Strong attention to detail and the ability to create precise and comprehensive technical drawings.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Problem-solving skills with a focus on innovation and production feasibility.
Certifications
- None required, though certification in CAD software or design methodologies is a plus.
Core Competencies
- We Are Family: Build strong, collaborative relationships with team members to ensure seamless integration of designs into production.
- We Own It: Take accountability for the accuracy and quality of frame designs and technical drawings.
- We Give Our All: Demonstrate dedication to creating innovative, durable, and cost-effective frame designs.
- We Have Fun: Contribute to a creative and engaging workplace culture while developing industry-leading products.
Performance Metrics
- Accuracy and completeness of CAD models and technical drawings.
- Timeliness in meeting design and production deadlines.
- Reduction in design-related errors or production issues.
- Contribution to innovative and cost-effective frame designs.
Work Environment
- Primarily office-based with regular interaction in prototype workshops and manufacturing areas.
- Occasional travel to production facilities or meetings with retail partners may be required