Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. (ACT) is a leading provider of thermal management solutions for aerospace, defense, data centers, energy, and industrial applications. For more than 20 years, ACT has engineered and manufactured innovative technologies that solve complex thermal challenges in demanding environments. Our team is driven by continuous innovation, teamwork, and collaboration, delivering reliable solutions that support critical missions and next-generation technologies worldwide.
The CAD Technician plays a critical role in the full product development cycle—from early-stage concept layouts to detailed production documentation. As part of the Product Development team, this individual is responsible for mechanical design decisions related to layout, packaging, fabrication, and assembly documentation across a wide variety of electro-mechanical systems.
This position is ideal for a technically strong, detail-oriented designer with a deep understanding of SolidWorks modeling best practices, an interest in improving documentation workflows, an ability to assist with manufacturing operations in a lab environment, and a desire to contribute to a fast-paced engineering environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop complex 3D CAD models and large assemblies in SolidWorks, with a focus on sheet metal and weldment design techniques.
- Produce accurate 2D fabrication and inspection drawings using proper GD&T practices.
- Design mounting and enclosure solutions to support electrical components in mechanically driven systems.
- Create and maintain Bills of Materials (BOMs), part numbers, and routings within our Epicor MRP system (training provided).
- Prepare clear, thorough work instructions and build documentation to support prototype and production assembly teams.
- Participate in design reviews, incorporating feedback from engineering, manufacturing, and build teams.
- Own document control for CAD-related outputs, including ECNs, drawing revision management, and PDM workflows (SolidWorks PDM).
- Collaborate with purchasing, fabrication vendors, and internal teams to support custom component procurement.
- Support prototype builds by resolving design issues and ensuring accurate and complete documentation is available.
- Generate interface control drawings and operations/maintenance manuals as needed.
- Assist with the hands-on manufacturing and testing of prototype equipment in ACT’s product development lab.
- U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency (required due to ITAR compliance).
- Associate’s degree in mechanical engineering technology with 3–5 years of relevant experience, or B.S. in Mechanical Engineering with 0–3 years and strong CAD proficiency.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks for large assemblies, sheet metal, and weldments.
- Familiarity with MRP systems (Epicor experience is a plus) and 2D drawing standards including GD&T.
- Ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced design environment.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Hands-on understanding of common mechanical fabrication processes.
Ideal Candidate Qualities
- Initiative: You don’t wait for tasks to be handed to you—you identify what needs to be done and take action.
- Technical Depth: Solid foundation in mechanical design principles and a track record of CAD modeling excellence.
- Team-Oriented: Able to give and receive feedback constructively and collaborate across disciplines.
- Problem Solver: You enjoy digging into technical challenges and iterating creative design solutions.
- Growth Mindset: Always looking to improve your skills, refine your design process, and take on more responsibility over time.
Due to ITAR requirements, candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).
ACT offers competitive pay, excellent benefits (medical, dental, vision, paid time off, holidays, company-paid life & disability insurance, 401(k) match, and profit-sharing), and a supportive team environment.
ACT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.
ACT participates in E-Verify.
California Applicants: ACT collects personal information for hiring purposes. California residents may have rights under the CCPA/CPRA. Contact HR at barbara.rockwell@1-act.com.