Fabrication Design Engineer (CAD/CAM/CAE)

We are seeking a Mid-Level Fabrication Design Engineer with expertise in CAD, CAM, and CAE to lead detailed design and digital manufacturing workflows for custom parts, assemblies, and integrated systems. You will be responsible for bridging the gap between concept design and production, ensuring manufacturability, structural integrity, and efficiency across digital fabrication processes including CNC machining, additive manufacturing, and robotic fabrication.

Key Focus Areas:

1. 3D CAD Design & Assembly Engineering

• • Develop accurate and parametric 3D models and 2D technical drawings using tools like SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Rhino, or Inventor.

  • Design parts and assemblies optimized for fabrication, ensuring clarity, functionality, and compliance with DFM (Design for Manufacturing) principles.

2. CAM Programming & Manufacturing Preparation

• • Generate toolpaths and post-process G-code for CNC milling, turning, and robotic fabrication using Fusion 360 CAM, Mastercam, or equivalent.

  • Simulate machining operations to verify tool safety, part accuracy, and production efficiency.

3. CAE Simulation & Structural Validation

• • Conduct Finite Element Analysis (FEA), motion simulations, and basic structural assessments to validate design performance.

  • Interpret results to optimize part geometry, reduce material usage, or improve load-bearing capacity.

4. Digital Fabrication Workflow Integration

• • Collaborate with robotic and automation teams to prepare designs compatible with robotic arms, additive systems, or hybrid fabrication platforms.

  • Develop toolpath strategies aligned with non-traditional or multi-axis fabrication techniques.

5. Documentation & Engineering Standards

• • Create detailed BOMs, fabrication drawings, assembly instructions, and maintain design documentation in PLM systems.

  • Contribute to the standardization of design templates, file naming conventions, and best practices across the team.

6. Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration

• • Work closely with mechanical, electrical, automation, and fabrication teams to ensure seamless handoff from design to production.

  • Participate in design reviews, iterative prototyping, and continuous process improvement initiatives.

Core Responsibilities:

• • Lead mid-scale fabrication design projects from concept through production, ensuring manufacturability and structural reliability.

  • Create and maintain production-ready CAD/CAM files, ensuring revision control and alignment with project timelines.

  • Support prototyping, on-site assembly trials, and troubleshooting of design issues during fabrication.

  • Contribute to process optimization efforts, including reducing cycle times, material waste, and rework.

  • Mentor junior engineers and assist in training team members on tools and workflows.

Required Qualifications:

• • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Mechatronics, or related field.

  • 3–5 years of experience in CAD/CAM/CAE roles, particularly in fabrication or manufacturing environments.

  • Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and 2D drawing creation (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360).

  • Experience with CAM software and G-code generation for CNC or robotic fabrication.

  • Familiarity with FEA tools and engineering analysis for structural validation.

  • Strong understanding of materials, tolerancing, manufacturing methods, and fabrication shop workflows.

Preferred Qualifications:

• • Experience with robotic toolpath generation, 5-axis machining, or hybrid fabrication workflows.

  • Knowledge of parametric design (e.g., Grasshopper, Inventor iLogic) or generative design tools.

  • Exposure to digital fabrication labs, robotic fabrication cells, or rapid prototyping setups.

  • Familiarity with GD&T, ISO/ASME standards, and product lifecycle tools.