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.      

• The California Fair Chance Act
• Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
• Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
• San 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.