Technical Design & CAD Operator at Status Staffing

• Our client, based in Epping, Cape Town, is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Technical Design & CAD Operator to join their team. The successful candidate will be proficient in CAD software, including AutoCAD and SolidWorks, and will have strong technical design abilities within the furniture or industrial design environment. A Degree or Diploma in Furniture Design, Industrial Design, or a related field will be advantageous. This is an excellent opportunity for a creative and technically minded individual looking to grow within a dynamic manufacturing and design environment.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Proficient in CAD software, including AutoCAD and SolidWorks, as well as other design tools.
• Degree or Diploma in Furniture Design, Industrial Design, or a related field will be advantageous.
• Strong design skills with attention to detail and creativity.
• Experience using AutoCAD for technical drawings and layouts.
• Experience using SolidWorks for 3D modelling and product design.

DUTIES:

• Translate conceptual product designs into production-ready engineered solutions.
• Develop technical detailing for privacy pods, office furniture systems, acoustic products, desks, workbenches, and related components.
• Support new product development initiatives through engineering input and technical feasibility assessments.
• Ensure designs are manufacturable, structurally sound, cost-effective, and aligned with production capabilities.
• Collaborate with design, sales, procurement, and manufacturing teams throughout development cycles.
• Assist with prototype development, refinement, and production implementation.
• Create, maintain, and revise detailed CAD models and technical drawings.
• Produce accurate 3D models for product visualization and manufacturing purposes.
• Generate 2D manufacturing drawings, including dimensions, tolerances, assembly details, materials, and finishes.
• Develop simplified production models and shop-floor documentation for manufacturing teams.
• Produce conceptual technical drawings for presentations and design proposals when required.
• Manage drawing revisions, version control, and technical documentation libraries.
• Ensure all drawings comply with internal standards and manufacturing requirements.
• Develop and optimize CNC programming files for efficient manufacturing processes.
• Prepare CNC-ready cutting and machining files from approved CAD models.
• Optimize board layouts and nesting to minimize waste and improve material utilization.
• Work closely with machine operators and production teams to improve machining efficiency and reduce production time.
• Troubleshoot manufacturing and machining issues related to CAD/CNC programming.
• Ensure CNC files are accurate, tested, and aligned with machine capabilities and tooling requirements.
• Support acoustic testing and validation processes for privacy pods and related products.
• Assist with sound insulation, airflow, and ventilation testing to ensure products meet defined performance standards.
• Record, analyze and document testing results, and recommend design improvements where necessary.
• Work with suppliers and technical specialists to improve acoustic and environmental performance.
• Ensure technical compliance with applicable standards and internal quality benchmarks.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive production packs for manufacturing.
• Ensure production documentation includes manufacturing drawings, assembly instructions, Bills of Materials (BOMs), hardware specifications, material requirements, CNC files, quality control requirements, and packaging and installation details.
• Ensure all documentation is accurate, up to date, and easily accessible to production teams.
• Support production handovers and the implementation of new products into manufacturing.
• Identify opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and production processes.
• Support problem-solving related to manufacturing defects, installation issues, and technical challenges.
• Assist with supplier coordination regarding technical specifications and production requirements.
• Maintain awareness of industry trends, materials, manufacturing technologies, and product innovations.
• Contribute to ongoing product innovation and engineering improvements.