Job Description

Overview

The CAD Designer will drive innovative 2D/3D design work across a wide range of residential and commercial furniture products, including power-enabled recliners, loungers, and modular seating systems. Using Autodesk Inventor, Vault Pro, and related CAD tools, you’ll manage the full digital thread—from concept to installation—translating customer intent and engineering strategy into manufacturable products. You’ll be a part of the Engineering Organization, working closely with Operations, and Supply Chain to deliver production-ready designs that meet functionality, cost, and manufacturability targets.

Company Summary

HSM Transportation is an ISO Certified exclusive complete line manufacturer of C.E. White School Bus Seats, portable child restraints, seat covers, and foam aftermarket parts. We are also a premier commercial seat manufacturer specializing in luxury full-size, luxury shuttle, commuter transit, commuter van, salon, foldaway and sofa seating.

HSM Transportation Solutions is a business unit of HSM, headquartered in Hickory, NC since 1944. Our commitment to excellence goes far beyond our products and processes; it is centered on the people who make it all possible. If you're interested in learning more about our company culture, as well as the benefits we offer our employees, please visit our website or social media pages .

Responsibilities

Furniture & Mechanism Design

• Develop and modify detailed 2D/3D CAD models for furniture frames, fabric-wrapped components, and power recliner mechanisms.
• Design for manufacturability, cost, and serviceability across wood, metal, foam, and fabric subassemblies.
• Apply GD&T standards to ensure fit, form, and functional consistency during production and final assembly.

Data Management & Documentation

• Generate and maintain BOMs, drawings, part numbers, and specifications; manage file versions via Vault Pro and coordinate ERP setup.
• Update technical documents to reflect design changes, supplier updates, and continuous improvement actions.
• Prepare user guides, assembly instructions, and installation documents to support downstream operations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Product Management and R&D to translate concept sketches into engineered, build-ready digital models.
• Collaborate with Operations during prototyping, build trials, and installation to resolve design and interface issues in real time.
• Support Supply Chain and Sales with “what-if” design options, costing estimates, and CAD mockups.

Automation & Mechanism Integration

• Integrate powered recliner and lift mechanisms into CAD layouts, coordinating with suppliers for actuator and control specifications.
• Create models that account for wiring paths, power modules, and motion range for motors and recline systems.
• Assist in troubleshooting mechanical-to-electrical interfaces (e.g., actuators, limit switches).

Continuous Improvement & Learning

• Stay current on emerging materials, manufacturing methods, and ergonomic trends in furniture design.
• Participate in DFMEA, and root cause activities tied to quality and production feedback.
• Pursue development through certification courses or training in CAD tools, power mechanism integration, and smart furniture trends.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Associate’s degree in Drafting, Mechanical Technology, or Industrial Design required; Bachelor’s or industry certifications preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience with 3D CAD design, preferably in furniture, seating, or electromechanical consumer products.
• Formal GD&T training preferred; Lean, Six Sigma, or DFMEA experience a plus.

Technical Expertise

• Proficient in Autodesk Inventor and Vault Pro; capable of managing complex assemblies and version control.
• Experience designing furniture or assemblies with powered features (recliners, articulating frames, adjustable seats).
• Familiarity with mechanism layout, wiring integration, and actuator modeling.
• Understanding of materials and processes such as steel tubing, upholstery, foam contouring, stamping, welding, and CNC.

Professional Skills

• Proven ability to juggle multiple projects, meet aggressive timelines, and maintain meticulous data accuracy.
• Clear communicator who values respectful, cross-functional collaboration.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and eager to take feedback and turn it into forward progress.

Work Environment & Travel

• Primarily office-based with extended periods at a workstation; periodic travel to plants, suppliers, or customer sites to support builds and installations. Travel 10-20%

Top Benefits

As a CAD Designer at HSM, you’ll enjoy:

• 401k Contribution Match up to 4% (100% Vested from Day 1), 9 paid holidays, 3 Weeks of PTO (Eligible after 60 days), Affordable Total Package Benefits offerings for you and your family, On-Site No-Cost Medical Clinics for you and Covered Dependents, Teladoc 24/7 ($0 copay), and Tuition Reimbursement & Professional Development Assistance.

EEOC

HSM prohibits discrimination based on any protected status, workplace harassment/bullying, and retaliation for filing a complaint or providing information related to a complaint. HSM provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants without regard to an individual's protected status: race/ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, sex/gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital/parental status, pregnancy/childbirth or related conditions, religion, creed, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other protected status.

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