Sr CAD Architect NPD
Bolingbrook, IL - USA
Job Summary
Position Summary:
Reporting to the Manager of New Product Development the Sr CAD Architect is responsible for advanced CAD architecture concept development and complex system layouts covering G&W Electrics overhead and underground switchgear product lines. This role serves as a technical authority in Creo-based mechanical design translating high-level ideas concepts and minimal inputs into fully realized design concepts layouts and CAD models.
The Sr CAD Architect is expected to work with minimal supervision provide technical leadership in CAD practices and support early-phase concept generation envelope studies and equipment packaging within tanks and enclosures
Primary/Essential Responsibilities:
General
- Serve as a senior-level CAD expert and technical resource for the New Product Development team.
- Independently develop new product concepts from ideas rough sketches or minimal design inputs.
- Apply deep product knowledge of G&W overhead and underground switchgear to guide architectural design decisions.
- Establish and evolve advanced CAD architectures modeling strategies and design standards using Creo aligned with G&W Engineering CAD practices.
- Collaborate closely with Project Engineers Engineering Managers and cross-functional teams to support concept development feasibility studies and new product initiatives.
- Provide mentorship and technical guidance to NPD Mechanical Designers and Design Engineers as needed.
- Manage multiple complex assignments with minimal direction while meeting aggressive development timelines.
Concept Development & Layout
- Rapidly create conceptual models and system-level layouts to evaluate design feasibility space requirements and packaging constraints.
- Perform full equipment layouts inside tanks and enclosures to support envelope analysis clearances serviceability and manufacturability.
- Develop top-down and bottom-up CAD structures to support early concept exploration through detailed design.
- Support design trade studies by quickly iterating multiple concept options.
- Ensure models and drawings properly support Bills of Materials tolerance requirements and downstream manufacturing needs.
- Apply GD&T principles and tolerance stack-up analysis to complex assemblies
Required Qualifications
- Associates Degree in Mechanical Engineering Engineering Technology or equivalent practical experience.
- 10 years of progressive experience in mechanical design and product development.
- Expert-level Creo experience including advanced modeling large assemblies and complex layouts.
- Extensive hands-on experience with Windchill.
- Demonstrated experience developing designs from concept through production.
- Strong understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack analysis.
- Proven ability to translate abstract ideas or minimal inputs into robust mechanical designs.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work across engineering manufacturing and supplier teams.
- Strong creative problem-solving skills and ability to manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously.
- Proficiency with Windows Microsoft Word Excel and project collaboration tools.
- Solid mechanical troubleshooting experience.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelors Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Engineering Technology.
- Extensive experience in Research & Development environments.
- Deep knowledge of power distribution equipment and switchgear systems.
- Demonstrated expertise across multiple G&W product lines (overhead and underground).
- Creo Superuser or equivalent advanced certification.
- Experience with JD Edwards or similar ERP system
What we offer you:
Typical pay is $98872 - 128577 annually.
Please note the pay information shown above is a general guideline. Pay is based upon candidate skills experience and qualifications.
This position is eligible for participation in our Quarterly Incentive Pay Program
G&W Electric offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
- Medical Dental and Vision Insurance
- Short and Long-Term Disability
- Life Insurance
- Health club membership program and reimbursement
- Employee Assistance Program
- Tuition Reimbursement
- 401 (k)
- Annual Profit Sharing
- Vacation
- Air-conditioned/heated state-of-the-art manufacturing facility
About G&W Electric
Innovating since 1905 G&W Electric has grown into a global leader in engineered electrical power grid solutions. Working with us means joining a worldwide team of passionate manufacturing professionals striving to continually improve the technologies the world depends on to deliver safe reliable electricity. Our culture is focused on employee success so we foster an entrepreneurial environment that encourages everyone to thrive.
G&W Electric is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age color disability gender national origin race religion sexual orientation gender identity protected veteran status or any other classification protected by federal state or local law. G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.
*G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.
VEVRAA Federal Contractor
Required Experience:
Senior IC
About Company
Global leader in power grid solutions, advanced switchgear, reclosers, automation & distribution products. Engineering intelligent power for utilities & industry.