Head of CAD

My client is a leading solid surface fabrication company that has been established over 35 years, during which they have amassed a wealth of knowledge, experience and achieved various accreditations from brand leaders. Their UK wide client base includes recognisable retail and commercial names and as a result, their large-scale installation logistics network reflects this.

An innovative company at the forefront of their industry with a fun and friendly but professional working environment. Their small but formidable team is a huge part of their success, and they are seeking enthusiastic, dedicated and ambitious CAD Engineer who wants to make a difference and help them achieve their goals.

THE ROLE

• Managing and overseeing the day‑to‑day operation of the CAD department, including supporting and supervising two CAD team members.
• Prioritising CAD workload in line with production schedules, project deadlines, and operational requirements.
• Working closely with the Operations Manager and Managing Director to ensure projects progress efficiently through production.
• Ensuring the processing of all templates is carried out accurately, efficiently, and within required timescales.
• Converting digital files into accurate approval drawings for customer sign‑off.
• Producing detailed fabrication drawings and workshop paperwork for the factory team.
• Programming jobs for CNC production.
• Clearly highlighting all critical production information including dimensions, joints, edge details, cut‑outs, support requirements, and installation details for shop floor operatives.
• Reading and interpreting commercial, architectural, and joinery drawings to extract all relevant manufacturing information and ensure no details are missed.
• Reviewing project specifications and construction drawings to identify technical issues, discrepancies, or potential production risks prior to manufacture.
• Ensuring all relevant information is accurately transferred from drawings and specifications into internal production systems and fabrication paperwork.
• Maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly on complex and time‑sensitive projects.
• Acting as a key technical point of contact for internal departments, customers, and installation teams to resolve specification and production queries.
• Supporting the smooth coordination between CAD, fabrication, and installation teams to ensure projects are delivered efficiently and to a high standard.
• Maintaining fastidious and accurate record keeping within the company's central production system.
• Driving consistency, organisation, and high standards throughout the CAD department and wider production process.

THE CANDIDATE

• Previous experience managing or mentoring a small CAD or technical team.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and fabrication methods.
• Ability to interpret architectural, construction, and joinery drawings accurately.
• Experience producing detailed workshop/manufacturing drawings for production environments.
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve technical issues proactively.
• Ability to prioritise workload effectively in line with production and installation deadlines.
• Commercial awareness with an understanding of material optimisation and manufacturing efficiency.
• Experience working within a fast‑paced manufacturing or project‑driven environment.
• Confident decision‑making skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Knowledge of CNC manufacturing processes and machining principles.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple live projects simultaneously.
• Ability to communicate technical information clearly to both office staff and shop floor operatives.
• Proactive approach with a continuous improvement mindset toward systems and processes.
• Full UK driving licence advantageous.

THE BENEFITS

• Salary: £38,000 - £40,000
• 21 days holiday plus Bank Holidays and 5 holiday buy‑scheme
• Company Vehicle
• Pension

THE CONSULTANCY

Edwards & Pearce acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. Edwards & Pearce is an Equal Opportunities Employer.