Design What Launches the Future as a CAD Operator (Designer)
Location: Chandler, AZ | 1st Shift (9/80) | Pay: Starting at $34.96
Precision Design for Mission-Critical Aerospace Systems
PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a premier aerospace and defense leader to hire an experienced CAD Operator (Designer) for the Launch Vehicle Division in Chandler, AZ. This role is ideal for a senior-level designer who thrives in high-stakes environments and takes pride in delivering accurate, compliant, and manufacturable designs that support space and launch vehicle programs.
Your work will directly impact the success, safety, and reliability of advanced aerospace systems supporting national defense and space exploration.
About the Role
As a CAD Operator (Designer), you will be a key member of the Mechanical Engineering Design team, serving as a technical authority for drawing quality, GD&T interpretation, and digital product definition. You’ll review and verify complex design packages, collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and suppliers, and ensure compliance with industry and military standards.
This is a hands-on, onsite role requiring deep technical expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under schedule pressure.
Key Responsibilities
Review and check mechanical drawing and design packages for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with industry and military standards
Validate designs for fit, function, manufacturability, and cost-effective fabrication
Perform and review tolerance analysis, hardware selection, and assembly fitment
Serve as a recognized expert in GD&T, resolving interpretation issues per ASME Y14.5
Verify 3D models submitted to manufacturing using Siemens NX managed with Teamcenter
Model fully defined components and assemblies efficiently using NX
Create and revise parametric drawings in compliance with ASME 3D modeling and drawing standards
Liaise with engineering disciplines, Manufacturing, Quality, and external vendors
Support and, as requested, supervise or direct the activities of design staff
Maintain documentation and perform related duties as assigned
Required Qualifications
2-year Technical Degree in Drafting or Engineering
6+ years of directly related experience
Strong experience with GD&T per ASME Y14.5-2009 (GDTP Professional Certification preferred)
Experience with Digital Product Definition per ASME Y14.41
Proficiency with Siemens NX and Teamcenter
Knowledge of standard manufacturing processes, including CNC mill and lathe operations
Proficiency with Windows, Word, and Excel
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Strong time management, organizational skills, and ability to work under schedule pressure
Comfortable working extended periods at a workstation
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working on DoD programs
Knowledge of ASME Y14.100 and MIL-STD-100
Experience with weld design per AWS D17.1 and D1.1 (AWS CWI certification preferred)
Ready to Design What Takes Flight?
If you’re an experienced CAD professional ready to apply your expertise to advanced aerospace and launch vehicle programs, apply today and help shape the future of aerospace with PDS Tech Commercial.
This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.
Pay Details: $34.96 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
The California Fair Chance ActLos Angeles City Fair Chance OrdinanceLos Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for EmployersSan Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance
Massachusetts Candidates Only: 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.