CAD & Configuration Manager
CesiumAstro
Austin, TX, USA
Posted on May 23, 2025
Please Note: To conform with the United States Government Space Technology Export Regulations, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., conditional resident, asylee or refugee (protected individuals as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
At CesiumAstro, we are developers and pioneers of out-of-the-box communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and other space and airborne platforms. We take pride in our dynamic and cross-functional work environment, which allows us to learn, develop, and engage across our organization. If you are looking for hands-on, interactive, and autonomous work, CesiumAstro is the place for you. We are actively seeking passionate, collaborative, energetic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our team.
We are looking to add a CAD & Configuration Manager to our team. If you enjoy working in a startup environment and are passionate about developing leading-edge hardware for satellites, spacecraft, and aerospace systems, we would like to hear from you.
This role will be responsible for the functional management of the CAD design and configuration analyst staff across CesiumAstro’s US sites. Responsibilities include developing standard processes for CAD design & drafting, including checklists, manuals, workflows, and other process implements in support of the full engineering lifecycle. The selected candidate will be responsible for the deployment of CAD design and drafting resources to programs, developing and maintaining processes, customer & vendor interfaces, and other intra-organizational activities. In addition, the selected candidate will be responsible for the mentorship, performance management, and career development of department members.
In addition, the successful CAD & Configuration Manager will also serve as a key senior individual contributor with roles ranging from CAD design to PDM administration. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in 2D and 3D CAD design & drafting, as well as in PDM administration and implementation of best practices for data management to ensures seamless integration of design with other enterprise systems and business processes.
Candidates should be comfortable with a varied workflow that may involve multitasking between workflow development, process optimization, library management, CAD design, review, and other related tasks.
JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead a team of skilled CAD Designers and Configuration Analysts, fostering a culture of operational excellence, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
- Coordinate and manage employee task assignments, helping employees connect their efforts to the bigger picture. Create an inclusive work environment characterized by mutual respect and valued diversity. Build a culture that motivates employees to achieve their potential.
- Set clear performance objectives, provide regular feedback, and conduct performance evaluations to support professional growth within the team.
- Partner with senior management and recruitment to ensure staffing goals are met in support of business growth.
- Ensure necessary training and certification programs align with business and employee development needs.
- Configure and maintain PDM/PLM workflows using SolidWorks Product Data Management (PDM).
- Implement and maintain CAD file standards, templates, libraries and system configurations.
- Responsible for the maintenance and administration of the SolidWorks PDM Vault for current and new users.
- Review and enforce best practices for data and configuration management.
- Develop and document relevant engineering processes and workflows and implement updates with input from appropriate stakeholders.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Technical degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology or similar, or 4 years of additional relevant experience is required.
- Minimum of 10 years of industry experience as a CAD Designer/Drafter, PDM Administrator, or similar position.
- Additional 2 years of functional management experience.
- Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams in a leadership role while making contributions as a senior member of the technical staff.
- Expert knowledge in using CAD tools. Experience with SolidWorks is required.
- Demonstrated experience working in and administrating a PDM version control database. Some SolidWorks PDM experience is required.
- Strong experience with Data Management and Configuration Control management.
- Experience in providing user support and training on PLM/PDM systems.
- Comfortable with collaboration tools such as MS Teams, Confluence, and Jira.
- Ability to work well under deadlines.
- Takes initiative and enjoys implementing new processes and procedures.
- Natural ability to lead and mentor others and enjoys fostering a collaborative, inventive, and high-energy dynamic environment.
- Strong organizational skills.
- An eye for detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
- Knowledge of integration of PDM into PLM and ERP systems.
- Experience with SolidWorks PDM Professional API.
- Previous experience in the design of electronic packages, ground structures, mechanisms, and/or flight structures in the space or aerospace industries.
CesiumAstro considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills. Full-time employment offers include company stock options and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability and retirement plans.
CesiumAstro is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Please note: CesiumAstro does not accept unsolicited resumes from contract agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited resumes submitted to our website or to CesiumAstro team members not through our approved vendor list or Talent Acquisition will be considered property of CesiumAstro, and we will not be obligated to pay any referral fees.
