The CAD & Product Development Technician supports Product Development by digitizing upholstery patterns, creating fabric cutting markers, producing plastic patterns using a plastic pattern machine, maintaining digital files, and assisting with related engineering and administrative tasks. This entry-level position provides training in LECTRA CAD software, pattern development, marker optimization, sewing specifications, plastic pattern production, and upholstery manufacturing processes.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, organized, computer-proficient, eager to learn, and willing to take on a variety of tasks with a positive, can-do attitude.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- CAD, Pattern Digitizing & Marker Creation
- Learn to operate LECTRA CAD and marker-making software.
- Digitize physical upholstery patterns and verify measurements, notches, seam allowances, and other required details.
- Create and maintain accurate digital patterns and fabric cutting markers.
- Operate a plastic pattern machine to produce plastic patterns.
- Optimize marker layouts to improve fabric utilization and reduce material waste.
- Identify discrepancies and make approved corrections under supervision.
- Prepare patterns and markers for review and release to production.
- Product Development & Technical Documentation
- Support Engineering and Product Development with new products, samples, and production needs.
- Learn to prepare and maintain sewing specifications and write clear, accurate sewing notes.
- Understand upholstery construction and how pattern and sewing documentation supports manufacturing. Sewing is not a responsibility of this position; creating sewing notes and specifications is.
- Assist with investigating pattern, marker, and production-related issues.
- Follow established procedures for engineering changes, revisions, and document control.
- Administrative & Material Costing Support
- Complete administrative tasks, including entering and maintaining Bills of Materials (BOMs) and related product information.
- Record fabric consumption and marker utilization information to support Engineering and Costing.
- Maintain organized electronic files and ensure required documentation is complete and accurate.
- Complete assigned tasks according to established priorities and deadlines.
- Training & Continuous Improvement
- Develop proficiency in LECTRA software, pattern digitizing, marker creation, plastic pattern production, sewing specifications, and related documentation.
- Learn fabric characteristics, upholstery construction, and manufacturing requirements.
- Apply training and feedback to improve accuracy, efficiency, and technical knowledge.
- Ask questions, communicate issues, and seek guidance when needed.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Basic computer skills and ability to learn specialized software and equipment.
- Strong attention to detail, organization, and basic math and measurement skills.
- Ability to follow instructions, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
- Good communication and problem-solving skills.
- Willingness to learn new processes, accept feedback, and work collaboratively.
- A proactive, can-do attitude, with a willingness to take on assigned tasks and approach changing priorities with a positive attitude.
Preferred Qualifications
- Coursework or experience in CAD, drafting, engineering, manufacturing, or a related field.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, electronic file management, or technical documentation.
- Exposure to manufacturing, fabrics, upholstery, pattern making, or sewing terminology.
Previous LECTRA or plastic pattern machine experience is not required. Training will be provided.
Key Performance Expectations
- Develop accuracy and proficiency in pattern digitizing, marker creation, plastic pattern production, and technical documentation.
- Maintain organized, accurate files and complete administrative tasks, including BOM entry, correctly and on time.
- Follow established procedures and identify potential errors before work is released.
- Communicate effectively, work well with others, and respond positively to coaching.
- Demonstrate initiative, flexibility, reliability, and a willingness to help wherever needed.
Physical & Work Requirements
- Ability to work at a computer workstation for extended periods.
- Ability to handle, measure, and organize physical upholstery patterns.
- Ability to operate a plastic pattern machine safely after training.
- Ability to move between office and manufacturing areas as needed and follow workplace safety procedures.
Position Accountability
The CAD & Product Development Technician is responsible for accurate pattern digitizing, marker creation, plastic pattern production, file maintenance, BOM entry, and supporting technical documentation. Work will be reviewed by experienced personnel until the required level of proficiency is demonstrated.
The technician may not independently authorize pattern design changes, construction modifications, or release unapproved CAD information to production.