Drafting Manager
A nationally recognized retail display and branded environment manufacturer is seeking a Drafting & Modeling Manager to lead and scale its engineering support function in the Minneapolis market.
This organization has partnered with some of the world’s most recognizable consumer brands to create innovative retail experiences, custom fixtures, and complex display environments. With decades of market leadership and significant growth underway, they are investing heavily in engineering operations and process improvement.
This role will oversee a team of drafting and modeling professionals responsible for supporting custom design-build manufacturing projects from concept through production. The ideal candidate brings strong SolidWorks expertise, proven leadership experience, and a background in retail fixtures, store displays, architectural fabrication, or related custom manufacturing environments.
Responsibilities
- Lead and oversee the daily operations of the Drafting & Modeling team, ensuring balanced workloads and timely project execution
- Review engineering drawings, 3D models, and technical documentation for accuracy, completeness, and production readiness
- Drive consistency in drafting standards, modeling practices, revision control, and engineering documentation processes
- Collaborate cross-functionally with project management, manufacturing, vendors, and engineering teams to support successful project execution
- Prioritize team deliverables based on operational needs, customer timelines, and business priorities
- Monitor team capacity and resource allocation while proactively identifying workflow bottlenecks and improvement opportunities
- Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on efficiency, quality, and scalability within engineering operations
- Mentor, coach, and develop team members while fostering a collaborative and accountable team culture
- Assist in establishing and maintaining best practices for SolidWorks and PDM file management systems
- Ensure all engineering deliverables align with internal quality standards and manufacturing requirements
- Partner with leadership to support departmental growth, hiring initiatives, and long-term operational strategy
Desired Skills and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Drafting/Design Technology, Industrial Design, or related field preferred
- 5+ years of experience in drafting, modeling, design engineering, or technical documentation environments
- Prior experience in a leadership or supervisory capacity strongly preferred
- Strong leadership experience managing drafting, CAD, modeling, or design engineering teams
- Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks and experience working within PDM environments
- Background in retail fixtures, store displays, POP displays, architectural millwork, custom fabrication, or design-build manufacturing environments preferred
- Proven ability to implement process improvements, drafting standards, and workflow efficiencies
- Experience reviewing production drawings and technical documentation in fast-paced manufacturing settings
- Strong organizational, communication, and project prioritization skills
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