Our client, a specialist shipbuilding business based on the Isle of Wight, is seeking a CAD Systems Lead to oversee and develop the digital engineering environment supporting the design and construction of innovative aluminium vessels. This permanent role offers the opportunity to become the technical authority for 3D CAD, engineering software, CAD standards, data management and design system integration across the marine and maritime sectors.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the administration, development and continuous improvement of CAD and engineering data systems
Own and maintain SOLIDWORKS and CADMATIC environments, including software configuration and support
Develop and manage CAD standards, templates, component libraries, assemblies and design workflows
Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support to Design, Engineering and Production teams
Ensure the accuracy, consistency and quality of 2D drawings, 3D models, assemblies and parts lists
Improve design processes, engineering efficiency and data management practices
Support information exchange and integration between multiple CAD platforms, including AutoCAD
Act as the internal subject matter expert for CAD systems and engineering software
Job Requirements:
Strong practical experience with SOLIDWORKS, 3D CAD and AutoCAD
Experience administering or managing CAD environments, rather than solely using CAD for design
Good understanding of assemblies, libraries, templates, configurations and CAD standards
Experience troubleshooting CAD and engineering software issues
Strong knowledge of engineering data, file management and design system integration
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to support a range of technical stakeholders
Methodical and organised approach to maintaining standards, accuracy and best practice
Background in manufacturing, shipbuilding, marine engineering or a related industry
Desirable Experience:
Experience using CADMATIC in a marine, maritime or shipbuilding environment
Knowledge of aluminium vessel design, fabrication or production engineering
Understanding of CAD automation, configuration and library development
Experience with CNC manufacturing, nesting and fabrication outputs
Experience integrating multiple CAD systems and engineering data platforms
Relevant degree or equivalent qualification in an engineering discipline
Benefits:
Company healthcare scheme
Company pension
Annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays
Discounted ferry travel
Opportunity to shape and develop a modern engineering systems environment
Long-term career development within a growing marine business
The role will involve working alongside Naval Architects, Mechanical Engineers and Systems Engineers on projects including high-speed ferries, luxury yachts, crew transfer vessels and offshore support craft. If you are passionate about CAD excellence, engineering data systems and improving vessel design and production, apply now