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Computer Aided Design Drafter Lead
Accepting applicationsNorth Shore Steel · Houston, TX
Full-Time Associate Aiaiateganrf
Posted
2d ago
Category
Manufacturing
Experience
Associate
Country
United States
We are seeking a Lead CAD Operator who wants to grow into a true expert in production-driven design, someone who understands that great CAD work isn’t just accurate, it’s efficient, manufacturable, and built for performance.
This role offers the opportunity to own your work, influence nesting strategy and material efficiency, and directly impact production outcomes. You won’t be working in isolation, your decisions will shape how work flows through the shop and how effectively we deliver for our customers.
If you take pride in precision, think in terms of optimization, and want to see your work come to life on the floor, this is the kind of role where you can do your best work.
This is a role for someone who wants to move beyond drafting and become a true technical leader in a production environment.
What You’ll Own
Drawing Interpretation & CAD Development
Interpret customer drawings, specifications, and project requirements with precision
Convert customer-supplied files (PDF, DWG, etc.) into production-ready SolidWorks and Tekla models
Develop detailed part and assembly drawings aligned with manufacturing capabilities
Ensure all drawings meet internal standards and customer specifications
Nesting & Production Optimization
Create CNC nests using ProNest and PrimeCut for plasma and oxy-fuel cutting systems
Optimize nests for material yield, cut time, and machine efficiency
Align nests with machine capabilities (Messer, Kinetic, etc.) and production schedules
Continuously refine nesting strategies based on real production feedback
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Sales to support accurate quoting and material takeoffs
Work closely with Production to ensure seamless execution on the floor
Communicate clearly with internal stakeholders to resolve technical questions quickly
Lead-Level Contribution
Set the standard for drawing quality, speed, and discipline
Support training and development of less experienced CAD operators
Contribute to process improvements, standardization, and operational excellence
What You’ll Influence
Material Yield – Maximize plate utilization and reduce scrap
Machine Efficiency – Improve cut time and equipment performance
Production Throughput – Help drive speed and flow across operations
Rework Reduction – Ensure drawings are right the first time
Operational Consistency – Build repeatable, high-quality processes
Qualifications
5+ years of CAD and nesting experience in a steel service center or fabrication environment
Advanced proficiency in: SolidWorks, Tekla, ProNest / PrimeCut
Strong understanding of: CNC plasma and oxy-fuel cutting processes (Messer, Kinetic, or similar), Steel plate processing and fabrication methods
Proven ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and specifications
Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Sound judgment and problem-solving capability in a fast-paced environment
Professional communication skills and team-oriented mindset
Why North Shore Steel? We are a performance-driven organization grounded in strong values:
Be Safe Always
Do The Right Thing
Provide Great Service
Take The Initiative
Be An Endless Learner
We offer a stable, growing environment where your work directly impacts the success of the business and the people around you.
If you’re looking for a role where your work matters, your ideas improve performance, and you can grow into a technical leader, this is that opportunity.
Show more Show less
This role offers the opportunity to own your work, influence nesting strategy and material efficiency, and directly impact production outcomes. You won’t be working in isolation, your decisions will shape how work flows through the shop and how effectively we deliver for our customers.
If you take pride in precision, think in terms of optimization, and want to see your work come to life on the floor, this is the kind of role where you can do your best work.
This is a role for someone who wants to move beyond drafting and become a true technical leader in a production environment.
What You’ll Own
Drawing Interpretation & CAD Development
Interpret customer drawings, specifications, and project requirements with precision
Convert customer-supplied files (PDF, DWG, etc.) into production-ready SolidWorks and Tekla models
Develop detailed part and assembly drawings aligned with manufacturing capabilities
Ensure all drawings meet internal standards and customer specifications
Nesting & Production Optimization
Create CNC nests using ProNest and PrimeCut for plasma and oxy-fuel cutting systems
Optimize nests for material yield, cut time, and machine efficiency
Align nests with machine capabilities (Messer, Kinetic, etc.) and production schedules
Continuously refine nesting strategies based on real production feedback
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Sales to support accurate quoting and material takeoffs
Work closely with Production to ensure seamless execution on the floor
Communicate clearly with internal stakeholders to resolve technical questions quickly
Lead-Level Contribution
Set the standard for drawing quality, speed, and discipline
Support training and development of less experienced CAD operators
Contribute to process improvements, standardization, and operational excellence
What You’ll Influence
Material Yield – Maximize plate utilization and reduce scrap
Machine Efficiency – Improve cut time and equipment performance
Production Throughput – Help drive speed and flow across operations
Rework Reduction – Ensure drawings are right the first time
Operational Consistency – Build repeatable, high-quality processes
Qualifications
5+ years of CAD and nesting experience in a steel service center or fabrication environment
Advanced proficiency in: SolidWorks, Tekla, ProNest / PrimeCut
Strong understanding of: CNC plasma and oxy-fuel cutting processes (Messer, Kinetic, or similar), Steel plate processing and fabrication methods
Proven ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and specifications
Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Sound judgment and problem-solving capability in a fast-paced environment
Professional communication skills and team-oriented mindset
Why North Shore Steel? We are a performance-driven organization grounded in strong values:
Be Safe Always
Do The Right Thing
Provide Great Service
Take The Initiative
Be An Endless Learner
We offer a stable, growing environment where your work directly impacts the success of the business and the people around you.
If you’re looking for a role where your work matters, your ideas improve performance, and you can grow into a technical leader, this is that opportunity.
Show more Show less