CAD Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: CAD Design Manager

Company: Cornerstone Technologies

Location: American Fork, Utah, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: May 05, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the technical design and CAD operations for large-scale live events, including conventions, exhibitions, and sales conferences, ensuring precision and adherence to industry standards.

• Manage and optimize the organization's Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software suite, including licensing, distribution, updates, and system performance.

• Develop and maintain comprehensive file organization systems and internal CAD standards to ensure project efficiency and data integrity.

• Oversee the creation of detailed 2D and 3D technical drawings for event environments, production elements, and spatial configurations, directly impacting operational execution.

• Foster collaboration between design, production, and client teams to translate event requirements into actionable technical documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a management opportunity within a technical design function, requiring a blend of strong CAD design skills and operational oversight of CAD systems and standards. The emphasis on live events suggests a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment where precision and clear communication are paramount for successful project execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the Creative Team, Producers, Technical Directors, and external clients to conceptualize and develop technical drawings that align with event objectives and client visions.

• Produce clear, accurate, and visually compelling 2D and 3D CAD drawings, including detailed floor plans, staging configurations, seating layouts, and other critical production elements.

• Administer and manage all CAD software operations, ensuring proper licensing, timely distribution to relevant personnel, regular updates, and overall system optimization for peak performance.

• Establish and maintain a robust file organization system, including project sharing protocols and venue-specific folder structures, to facilitate seamless collaboration and easy retrieval of design assets.

• Continuously update and enhance the CAD symbol library, ensuring it accurately reflects current inventory, rental capabilities, and evolving design standards for maximum efficiency.

• Guarantee that all designs comply with applicable safety regulations, including national and local fire and building codes, to ensure safe event execution.

• Effectively manage multiple concurrent projects, providing regular progress updates, proactively identifying potential issues, and integrating stakeholder feedback to ensure project success.

• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in CAD technologies, design tools, and industry best practices to drive continuous improvement and innovation within the design operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on design execution and operational management of the CAD function. The requirement to manage software, file structures, and symbol libraries indicates a need for strong organizational and systems thinking, in addition to core design proficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of demonstrated experience in creating CAD drawings specifically for events, which can include corporate events, live entertainment, or theatrical productions.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in CAD software, with a strong preference and emphasis on Vectorworks; demonstrated ability to leverage its features for complex event design.

• Ability to meticulously read, interpret, and implement details from engineering and architectural drawings into event designs.

• Exceptional attention to detail, coupled with robust problem-solving capabilities to address design challenges and technical complexities.

• Proven time management skills, with a demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks and meet strict deadlines across a portfolio of multiple simultaneous projects.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D modeling software beyond core CAD capabilities for enhanced visualization.

• Familiarity with project management software for tracking design progress and resource allocation.

• Knowledge of event production workflows and technical requirements (e.g., AV, lighting, staging).

• Understanding of spatial planning principles for diverse event types.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Vectorworks is a critical requirement. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their experience with this specific software in their portfolio and during interviews. The "Leadership & Supervision" section indicates potential for team growth, suggesting that experience mentoring or guiding junior designers is a plus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a range of 2D and 3D CAD designs for live events, including detailed floor plans, stage designs, and spatial layouts.

• Case studies showcasing the process from initial concept to final technical drawing, highlighting problem-solving approaches and design iterations.

• Evidence of managing and organizing large CAD project files and libraries, demonstrating proficiency in file structure and version control.

• Examples of designs that successfully incorporated safety standards (e.g., fire codes, accessibility) and any relevant venue-specific constraints.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document and articulate the CAD design process, from client brief to final deliverable, for internal training and standardization.

• Clear demonstration of proficiency in managing CAD software licenses, updates, and distribution processes.

• Examples of how the symbol library was maintained, updated, and utilized efficiently to streamline design work.

• Understanding of how to integrate design feedback and revisions systematically into the CAD workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a critical component for this role. Candidates should focus on showcasing not just the final designs but also the process, organization, and problem-solving aspects that demonstrate managerial and operational capability, not just drafting skill.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $70,000 - $80,000 per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Paid time off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Opportunities for professional development and training in new CAD technologies and event design trends.

• Potential for team growth and leadership advancement within the organization.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime during peak event seasons. This role is primarily on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on the provided experience level (2-5 years), location (American Fork, Utah), and the technical/managerial nature of the role. The estimated range aligns with industry benchmarks for CAD Design Managers in similar markets. Benefits are standard for full-time positions and are assumed based on industry norms for a company of this type.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Audiovisual & Event Production Services. Cornerstone Technologies specializes in providing comprehensive AV solutions and technical production for a wide array of events, including corporate meetings, trade shows, conferences, and live entertainment. Their services likely encompass audio, video, lighting, staging, and interactive technology.

Company Size: Based on the Bamboohr domain and typical company structures, Cornerstone Technologies is likely a mid-sized to large organization within its industry, employing likely 50-250+ individuals. This size suggests a structured environment with established departments and processes, but still offers opportunities for direct impact.

Founded: Founded in 2000, Cornerstone Technologies has over two decades of experience in the event production industry, indicating a stable, established company with deep market knowledge and a proven track record.

Team Structure:

• The CAD Design Manager will likely be part of the Creative or Production department, working closely with Creative Directors, Producers, Technical Directors, and potentially Project Managers.

• The role involves direct management of CAD Draftsmen, with potential for team expansion as the company grows and event volume increases.

Methodology:

• Data-driven design and planning, utilizing CAD tools to model event layouts and optimize space utilization based on client needs and technical requirements.

• Emphasis on standardized processes for file management, symbol libraries, and design reviews to ensure consistency and quality across all projects.

• Collaborative approach to problem-solving, encouraging input from various technical and creative disciplines to overcome design challenges.

• Commitment to continuous improvement, staying updated on new technologies and industry trends to enhance service offerings and operational efficiency.

Company Website: https://cornerstoneav.bamboohr.com/careers (Note: This URL points to the careers page, the primary company website is likely cornerstoneav.com or similar, but the provided URL is used for reference.)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and focus on AV and event production suggest a dynamic environment where technical precision and client satisfaction are paramount. The role of CAD Design Manager is central to operationalizing creative visions for events.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, primarily focused on specialized technical operations within design and production. It requires not only advanced design skills but also the capacity to manage systems, standards, and potentially a team.

Reporting Structure: The CAD Design Manager likely reports to a Director of Creative Services, Director of Production, or a similar senior operational or creative leadership role. They will manage a team of CAD Draftsmen.

Operations Impact: The CAD Design Manager has a significant impact on operational efficiency and client satisfaction by ensuring that event designs are technically accurate, feasible, and cost-effective. High-quality technical drawings minimize on-site issues, reduce errors, and contribute to the overall success and profitability of events.

Growth Opportunities:

• Team Leadership: Opportunity to build and lead a growing CAD design team, developing mentorship and management skills.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced CAD software, 3D visualization, and event production technologies.

• Process Improvement: Lead initiatives to enhance CAD workflows, implement new tools, and establish best practices across the organization.

• Project Scope Expansion: Take on responsibility for larger and more complex event designs, potentially involving international or high-profile projects.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Potential to move into broader production management or creative direction roles with expanded responsibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Manager" title suggests a clear path for career progression beyond individual contributor roles, focusing on team leadership and operational system development within the design function.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a dedicated office space within Cornerstone Technologies' facilities. The environment is likely a blend of design studios/workstations and general office areas, fostering collaboration.

Office Location(s): American Fork, Utah. This location is in Utah County, a growing tech and business hub, offering potential for a vibrant work environment.

Workspace Context:

• Workstations equipped with high-performance computers and professional CAD software (Vectorworks).

• Collaborative spaces or meeting rooms for team discussions, client reviews, and cross-functional planning sessions.

• Access to company-wide resources, including IT support, HR, and potentially a library of past project documentation and venue data.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with other departments, such as sales, production, and technical operations, to gain a holistic understanding of the event lifecycle.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, with an expectation of flexibility and potential for overtime during critical project phases or peak event seasons. This is common in the live events industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration, team synergy, and direct access to company resources and personnel, which is crucial for effective design management and operational oversight.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, salary expectations, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview: A session with the hiring manager or a senior designer to discuss CAD skills, experience with Vectorworks, and technical problem-solving abilities. This may involve reviewing a portfolio.

• Portfolio Review & Design Challenge: A more in-depth presentation of the candidate's portfolio, focusing on specific projects relevant to event design. A practical design challenge or case study related to event layout or production elements may be assigned and then reviewed.

• Managerial/Team Fit Interview: A discussion with the CAD Design Manager's direct supervisor or potential team members to evaluate leadership potential, collaboration style, and alignment with company culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss overall fit and strategic vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Event-Specific Work: Prioritize projects that directly relate to live events, conventions, or similar environments.

• Showcase Vectorworks Proficiency: Clearly demonstrate advanced techniques and features used within Vectorworks.

• Illustrate Process: Include examples of your thought process, initial sketches, problem-solving steps, and how you incorporated feedback.

• Detail File Organization: If possible, provide examples or descriptions of how you managed complex project files and folder structures.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., "designed seating for X attendees," "optimized layout to accommodate Y production elements").

• Prepare to Discuss Management: Be ready to talk about your experience managing software, standards, and potentially people, even if informal.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with common event layouts (e.g., trade show booths, conference seating, banquet halls).

• Review safety codes and accessibility standards relevant to public assembly spaces.

• Practice articulating your design decisions and the rationale behind them, especially concerning efficiency and feasibility.

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing multiple projects and competing deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount. Candidates should curate it to specifically address the responsibilities of managing CAD systems and designing for live events, rather than just showcasing general CAD skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Vectorworks: The core CAD software for 2D and 3D design, including Vectorworks Spotlight for event-specific design. Proficiency is strongly preferred.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Likely utilized for presentation graphics, document creation, and potentially some 2D rendering or editing (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for documentation, communication, and project management (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For data analysis related to space planning, capacity calculations, and potentially managing symbol library inventories.

• Project Management Software: Potentially used for tracking design progress, deadlines, and resource allocation (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or internal systems).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design outputs feed into sales proposals or project management systems is beneficial.

• Internal company systems for project management, asset storage (e.g., cloud storage, network drives), and communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: Vectorworks is the most critical tool mentioned. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate advanced proficiency and discuss their experience with its event-specific modules.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Accuracy: A fundamental value, ensuring all technical drawings are exact and reliable for event execution.

• Collaboration: Emphasis on working effectively with diverse teams (creative, technical, sales) to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and creative solutions to enhance event experiences.

• Efficiency: Streamlining processes, optimizing workflows, and managing resources effectively to deliver high-quality results on time and within budget.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through meticulous planning and execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and communicative, fostering open dialogue between design, production, and client stakeholders.

• Team-oriented, valuing collective problem-solving and shared ownership of project success.

• Supportive, with a focus on mentoring junior team members and sharing knowledge to elevate overall team capabilities.

• Adaptable, willing to adjust approaches based on project needs and client feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on live events implies a culture that values teamwork, quick adaptation, and a shared commitment to delivering successful, high-impact experiences.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Demands: Balancing multiple concurrent projects with varying scopes, deadlines, and client expectations.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to new CAD software features, event technologies, and design trends.

• Ensuring Code Compliance: Navigating complex and evolving national and local safety and building codes for different event venues.

• Scalability of Operations: Growing the CAD team and refining systems to support increasing business volume without compromising quality.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Vectorworks Training: Opportunities to become an expert in Vectorworks Spotlight and related modules.

• Event Technology Workshops: Exposure to new AV, lighting, and staging technologies that impact design.

• Leadership Development Programs: Training in team management, project oversight, and strategic planning.

• Industry Conferences: Participation in relevant trade shows and conferences (e.g., InfoComm, LDI) to stay current on industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within the specialized field of event design operations, with opportunities to develop both technical and managerial expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for taking a client's initial concept for an event space and translating it into detailed, actionable CAD drawings." (Focus on workflow, collaboration, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy and compliance with safety codes when designing complex event layouts?" (Highlight attention to detail, knowledge of standards, and risk mitigation.)

• "Walk me through your experience managing CAD software licensing, updates, and maintaining a symbol library. What is your approach to ensuring efficiency and consistency?" (Demonstrate operational and systems management skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Cornerstone Technologies and our work in the live events industry?" (Research company projects and values.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with non-design teams (e.g., producers, AV technicians, sales)?" (Emphasize communication and cross-functional teamwork.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronologically, with a clear introduction for each piece.

• Narrative: For each key project, tell a story: the objective, your role, the challenges, your design decisions (and why), how you used Vectorworks, and the final outcome.

• Highlight Management Aspects: If applicable, point out how you managed files, organized elements, or contributed to process improvements.

• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about specific Vectorworks features, design choices, or problem-solving steps.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time and present the most impactful projects efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with Vectorworks in detail, as well as demonstrate an understanding of the operational aspects of managing a CAD function within a fast-paced event production environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Cornerstone Technologies careers portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest event design projects, ensuring they showcase your Vectorworks proficiency, 2D/3D design capabilities, and any experience with file organization or process improvement. Prepare a brief narrative for each, highlighting your role, challenges, and solutions.

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your experience with CAD design for events, Vectorworks, technical drawing, and any leadership or system management responsibilities. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare for a Design Challenge: Be ready to discuss your approach to common event design scenarios and potentially complete a short, practical design task.

• Research Cornerstone Technologies: Understand their project history, client base, and company values to articulate your interest and cultural fit effectively.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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