Lead CAD DesignerValar Atomics
We’re seeking a CAD Designer to lead our design and drafting efforts. This requires a strong 3D modeling and drafting expertise, deep understanding of mechanical design principles, and experience translating complex engineering concepts into production-ready documentation.
This role is ideal for a designer who thrives in a fast-paced, highly technical environment — and who enjoys solving real engineering challenges through meticulous design execution.
Design Execution: Develop high-quality 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings for mechanical systems and components using SolidWorks or Creo.
Design for Manufacturability: Collaborate with engineers and fabricators to ensure all designs meet DFM/DFA principles and production constraints.
Documentation: Generate engineering drawings with complete GD&T, tolerances, and BOMs in accordance with ASME standards.
System Integration: Support system-level design by coordinating interfaces across structures, thermal systems, enclosures, and electrical integration points.
Configuration Control: Manage design data, revisions, and release processes using PDM/PLM tools.
Review & Validation: Participate in design reviews, tolerance stack-ups, and fit-check studies to validate form, fit, and function.
Mentorship: Provide guidance and technical support to junior designers and drafters on CAD practices, standards, and design methodologies.
Continuous Improvement: Contribute to the refinement of internal design standards, CAD libraries, and workflows to enhance efficiency and consistency.
Required:
Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Drafting, or related discipline.
8+ years of professional experience as a mechanical designer in a hardware development environment.
Expert-level proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, or NX).
Strong understanding of GD&T, dimensioning, tolerancing, and drawing standards (ASME Y14.5).
Experience designing machined, sheet metal, and fabricated components.
Ability to collaborate closely with engineers and manufacturers to resolve design challenges.
Excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
Preferred:
Experience in aerospace, energy, or defense hardware environments.
Knowledge of materials, coatings, and high-performance fabrication methods.
Proficiency with PDM/PLM systems (e.g., Windchill, Teamcenter, SolidWorks PDM).
Hands-on experience with prototype assembly and testing.
- Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Drafting, or related discipline
- Designer in hardware development•8+ years
- 3D CAD software•1+ years
- GD&T•1+ years
- Dimensioning•1+ years
- Tolerancing•1+ years
- Drawing standards•1+ years
- Machined components design•1+ years
- Sheet metal components design•1+ years
- Fabricated components design•1+ years
- Aerospace environments•1+ years
- Energy environments•1+ years
- Defense hardware environments•1+ years
- Knowledge of Materials•1+ years
- Coatings•1+ years
- High-performance fabrication methods•1+ years
- Windchill•1+ years
- Teamcenter•1+ years
- SolidWorks PDM•1+ years
- Prototype assembly and testing•1+ years
Valar Atomics is pioneering the New Atomic Age by scaling nuclear energy for heavy industrial power and clean hydrocarbon fuel production. Our company leverages proven technology including Triso, Graphite, and Helium systems, with products like the Ward 250. At Valar Atomics, we're committed to unlocking abundant energy through innovative nuclear solutions. We're building a team dedicated to transforming the energy landscape with sustainable nuclear power. Proudly built in America, Valar Atomics represents a new model for nuclear energy that prioritizes scale and efficiency to meet tomorrow's industrial energy demands.
Competitive compensation and benefits package
Opportunities for professional growth and advancement
A collaborative, high-performance engineering culture
Access to cutting-edge design tools and prototyping facilities
The chance to make a tangible impact on next-generation energy systems
