CAD Technician

POSITION:  CAD Technician

SUPERVISOR: Engineering Design Manager

CLASSIFICATION:  Full-time, salaried, exempt (Professional Exemption) 

LOCATION:  Office Based in Albuquerque, NM 

Join Our Team as a CAD Technician at Gridworks – Powering the Future of Renewable Energy!

Are you passionate about transforming concepts into precision designs? Do you thrive on turning complex ideas into clear, actionable plans? At Gridworks, we're leading the charge in utility-scale solar (PV) and battery energy storage solutions, and we're looking for a talented CAD Technician to be a vital part of our design team in our Albuquerque, NM, office.

As a CAD Technician, you will take the helm of technical drawing and modeling, working alongside engineers and project managers to bring cutting-edge renewable energy projects to life. This is your opportunity to leverage your CAD expertise, push the boundaries of innovation, and directly impact the green energy revolution—all from our centrally located Albuquerque office.

Ready to design a brighter, more sustainable future? Join us at Gridworks.

About the Company   

Established in 2014, Gridworks is a leading EPC contractor for utility-scale solar and battery storage projects. Primarily operating across the southwest, we are expanding into other regions. With 2 GW of solar and battery energy storage projects we are well positioned for continued success in the rapidly growing clean energy sector. 

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION:

Gridworks is seeking a skilled CAD Technician to assist in timely design development for utility scale solar (PV) and battery energy storage projects. The CAD Technician is responsible for taking projects from early design development to installation, focusing on accuracy of design, attention to detail and overall efficiency of the commercial construction process.  This individual will be an integral part of an engineering design group, working alongside our design engineering team, construction managers and project managers in performing technical design and specification.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Technical Drawing and Modeling

• Create detailed 2D and 3D drawings, models, and layouts based on project specifications and requirements for utility scale solar and/or energy storage systems.
• Convert initial concepts, sketches, or hand-drawn designs into accurate CAD representations.
• Build detailed bills of materials (BOM) based on system specifications with support from the electrical design engineer.

Software Utilization

• Utilize CAD software tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Revit) proficiently to produce and modify designs.
• Stay updated with the latest software updates and incorporate new features into design workflows.

Collaboration and Coordination

• Work closely with engineers and other team members to ensure accurate representation and implementation of designs.
• Coordinate design interfaces with other engineering disciplines (civil, structural, SCADA/EMS, fire detection, substation, etc.) as applicable, to achieve appropriate cross-discipline alignment.
• Communicate effectively to clarify requirements, address design-related queries, and provide solutions to design challenges.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

• Review drawings and models for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with code and industry standards and guidelines.
• Ensure designs meet specified dimensions, tolerances, and other technical requirements.

Documentation and Record-Keeping:

• Maintain organized documentation of CAD files, design revisions, and project updates.
• Archive and manage CAD files to ensure accessibility and version control for future reference.

Problem-Solving and Troubleshooting:

• Identify and resolve discrepancies or inconsistencies in design specifications.
• Assist in troubleshooting technical issues related to CAD software or design files.

Continuous Learning and Skill Development:

• Stay informed about the latest CAD technologies, techniques, and best practices.
• Participate in training programs, workshops, or certifications to enhance CAD skills and proficiency.

Stay current with NEC code changes applicable to solar (PV) and BESS projects

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This position has no direct or indirect supervisory responsibilities, subject to change, if necessary, as responsibility changes.

WORK ENVIORNMENT:

• The ideal candidate should be physically able to sit in front of a computer every workday for long hours at a time.
• This job could operate in the main office or remote.
• This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and headsets.
• Work can be fast-paced and demanding during peak seasons in project development.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• This is largely a sedentary role working in an office environment.  This position would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets and bend, stoop, kneel or stand as necessary, manual dexterity necessary to operate office equipment as necessary to perform all aspects of the job. 

POSITION TYPE AND EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

• This is a full-time position.
• You may be required to infrequently work weekends or after normal business hours to support project needs.
• Flex schedules are negotiable.

TRAVEL:

• Limited or no travel is expected in this position.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Associate’s degree or technical certification in a Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
• 0-2 years of experience
• Proficiency in CAD software tools such as AutoCAD
• Solid organizational skills

PREFERRED EXPIERENCE

• Experience in preparing and presenting client-ready technical documents.
• Experience with construction drawings
• Expert knowledge in Excel
• Fluent in math and geometry
• Experience in solar power and/or BESS designs
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in design work
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to manage time and workload to meet project deadlines
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to CAD drafting
• Understanding of NEC sections applicable to solar (PV) and BESS project designs