CAD Draftsman

Job Specification: Draftsman

Cyclone Steel Services, LLC

Department: Engineering / Drafting

Reports To: VP Operations

Location: 4950 West Greens Rd, Houston TX 77066

Employment Type: Full-Time

Job Summary

The Draftsman is responsible for producing accurate fabrication and shop drawings to support the cutting, processing, and fabrication of steel plate products. This role requires hands-on experience with AutoCAD and steel plate nesting/programming software (Sigmanest, Omnwin, Pronest) to translate engineering designs into production-ready drawings and cutting programs.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced production environment, is highly organized, and communicates effectively with sales, production, and quality teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, revise, and interpret detailed fabrication and shop drawings for steel plate components based on engineering specifications and customer requirements.
• Create and modify 2D drawings using AutoCAD, ensuring dimensional accuracy and compliance with industry standards.
• Develop and optimize cutting programs/nests using Sigmanest, Omniwin, and Pronest software to maximize plate material utilization and minimize waste.
• Review customer specifications, purchase orders, and engineering drawings to ensure drawings and programs meet project requirements.
• Coordinate with production, quality control, and sales teams to resolve drawing discrepancies, design issues, or material concerns.
• Maintain organized records of drawings, revisions, and cutting programs, ensuring revision control and traceability.
• Support fast turnaround of drawings and nesting programs to meet production schedules and on-time delivery targets.
• Identify opportunities to improve drafting processes, drawing standards, and nesting efficiency.
• Communicate effectively with shop floor personnel to clarify drawing details and resolve fabrication questions.
• Ensure all drawings comply with relevant codes, standards, and company quality requirements.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Drafting Background: Demonstrated experience in technical/mechanical drafting, preferably within steel, metal fabrication, or manufacturing industries.
• AutoCAD Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of AutoCAD for creating and editing 2D technical drawings.
• Fabrication Drawings: Proven ability to read, interpret, and produce detailed fabrication/shop drawings for steel plate products.
• Nesting Software: Hands-on proficiency with Sigmanest, Omniwin, and Pronest for plate nesting and CNC cutting program generation.
• Organizational Skills: Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple drawings, revisions, and projects simultaneously.
• Fast-Paced Environment: Ability to perform efficiently and accurately under tight deadlines in a high-volume production setting.
• Communication Skills: Clear verbal and written communication for collaborating with engineering, production, and management teams.

Education & Experience

• Associate degree or technical certificate in Drafting, CAD Technology, Engineering Technology, or related field (or equivalent work experience).
• Prior experience in a steel plate processing, metal fabrication, or manufacturing environment preferred.
• Experience working with CNC plasma, laser, or oxy-fuel cutting systems is a plus.

Working Conditions

• Primarily office/drafting environment with regular interaction on the production floor.
• May require exposure to a manufacturing/shop setting, including noise and machinery.
• Standard full-time schedule; may require flexibility to meet production deadlines.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit at a workstation for extended periods while using CAD software.
• Occasional walking through the production floor to verify drawing accuracy against fabricated parts.

This job specification is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.

Pay: From $27.00 per hour

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person