Job Description

Job Title: Department Manager - AutoCAD Engineering / Draftsman

About Us:

At

Technical Signs

, we are an established and fast-growing signage manufacturing company, renowned for delivering high-quality, bespoke signage for commercial, retail, and industrial applications. Based in Watford, we thrive on innovation, precision, and customer satisfaction. Due to continued expansion, we're seeking an experienced and driven

AutoCAD Engineering Department Manager

to lead our Drawing Office team.

Role Overview:

As the

Department Manager

, you will lead the AutoCAD design and drafting team, playing a key role in the creation of detailed manufacturing drawings for bespoke signage solutions. You'll be responsible for overseeing workflow, improving design accuracy, supporting team development, and ensuring effective collaboration between departments.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and manage a team of CAD technicians and draftsmen within the Drawing Office. Oversee the production of accurate and timely technical drawings for manufacturing and installation. Provide support at estimating stages to advise on best fit manufacturing solutions to enable competitive pricing proposals Liaise with project managers and production teams to interpret project briefs and translate them into feasible, cost-effective designs. Ensure compliance with internal standards, client specifications, and industry regulations. Allocate resources and prioritise workloads to meet tight deadlines. Provide quality control, mentorship, and training within the department. Implement and maintain CAD standards, design templates, and process improvements. Provide oversight / coordinate with outwork suppliers and subcontractors regarding materials and manufacturing capabilities to ensure quality product is produced. Play a key role in continuous improvement team and supporting the ISO process Participate in design reviews and client meetings when required.

Skills & Experience Required:

Minimum 4 years of AutoCAD drafting experience, with at least 2 years in a signage or architectural metalwork setting. Strong working knowledge of AutoCAD (2D essential; 3D desirable). Experience with materials used in signage such as aluminium, stainless steel, mild steel, and acrylics. Understanding of CNC machinery, laser cutting, and fabrication processes. Ability to design signage elements with an eye on production budgets and constraints. Proven leadership or supervisory experience in a design or CAD team. Detail-oriented, proactive, and highly organized with excellent problem-solving skills. Confident communicator who works well under pressure in a fast-paced environment. Familiarity with Adobe Illustrator, SketchUp, FlexiSign or SolidWorks is a plus.

Desirable Characteristics:

Ability to blend into a tight-knit, collaborative team. High levels of accountability and ownership of work. Willingness to be hands-on when necessary to meet urgent deadlines or train team members. Strong awareness of Health & Safety standards related to design and production.

What We Offer:

Competitive salary based on experience. Opportunities for progression into senior leadership roles. Dynamic and supportive work environment. 28 days holiday (including public holidays).

Ideal for candidates with titles such as:

Senior CAD Draftsman, Design Engineer, Drawing Office Manager, Signage Technician, Structural CAD Designer, Drafting Team Lead.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From 45,000.00 per year

Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Experience:

AutoCAD: 4 years (required)
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 30/05/2025
Reference ID: Drawing Room Manager
Expected start date: 07/07/2025