Principal Aircraft CAD Designer (CATIA)
EDGEJobsCloseBy Editorial Insights
ADASI in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Principal Aircraft CAD Designer (CATIA) to lead 3D CAD modeling, assemblies, and 2D drawings for aircraft structures and systems using CATIA and SolidWorks, generate manufacturing data packs, and manage revisions in PLM/PDM while ensuring airworthiness and aerospace quality. The role requires collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and external suppliers, plus driving design reviews and production support. Ideal candidates have 11–15 years in aerospace or mechanical design, a Diploma in mechanical or aerospace engineering, and strong CATIA/SolidWorks skills with GD&T. Knowledge of composites and BOMs, PLM experience, and proven data exchange capabilities are highly valued. Apply with concrete examples and highlight willingness to work onsite in Abu Dhabi.
External Job Description
About ADASI
ADASI is the regional leader in autonomous systems and services, dedicated to offering holistic solutions – from the development and production of unmanned systems to joint mission analysis and equipment acquisition. We manufacture, operate, and maintain next-generation autonomous capabilities for air, land, and sea, operating in demanding environments. Headquartered in the UAE, we are committed to advancing the region’s technological edge in defense innovation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Create detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and 2D manufacturing drawings for aircraft structures, systems, and components using CATIA and SolidWorks
- Generate engineering drawings including dimensions, tolerances, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), bill of materials (BOMs), and assembly instructions.
- Produce complete manufacturing data packs for production (assemblies, parts & BOMs)
- Maintenance of relevant CAD models, including “buy” parts within the PLM/PDM system
- Configuration of manufacturing data packs
- Work closely with specialists in a multidisciplinary team
- Adhere to relevant design & drafting standards and ADASI code of conduct.
- Create and manage complex aircraft assemblies, ensuring proper fit, form, function, and interface control between components.
- Utilize PDM/PLM systems to manage CAD data, part revisions, configurations, workflows, and product lifecycle documentation.
- Support prototype development, testing activities, and production implementation by providing accurate design data and technical documentation.
- Coordinate with suppliers and external stakeholders regarding design requirements, CAD data exchange, and drawing clarifications.
- Verify and validate CAD models and drawings through design reviews and quality checks to ensure compliance with project specifications.
- Assist in troubleshooting manufacturing and assembly issues by analyzing design data and proposing corrective actions.
- Develop and maintain standardized CAD practices, templates, libraries, and design methodologies.
- Ensure adherence to aerospace quality standards, company procedures, and applicable airworthiness requirements.
- Participate in design reviews, technical meetings, and project status discussions.
- Support integration of mechanical, structural, electrical, and systems components within aircraft assemblies.
Required Qualifications:
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
- Additional certification or specialized training in CATIA and/or SolidWorks is preferred.
- Training in engineering drawing standards, GD&T, and aerospace drafting practices is desirable.
- Knowledge of aircraft design principles, manufacturing processes, and configuration management practices.
- 11–15 years of work experience in an aerospace or mechanical design environment.
Technical Tools:
- Working knowledge of CAD packages, Catia or SoliDworks
- Working knowledge of PDM/PLM systems
- Expert knowledge of Aircraft/Mechanical design
- Expert knowledge of composite designs
- Thorough understanding of design principles
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