Location: Kettering,
Contract type: Permanent
Reporting to: Technical Design Manager
Hours: Full time, Monday- Friday - 8.30am – 5pm
Wicksteed Group of Companies are the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of play and Leisure equipment & have been designing; manufacturing; installing; landscaping and maintaining playgrounds since 1918.
Wicksteed Leisure is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented CAD Designer to join our Design & Engineering team. The successful candidate will be responsible for producing high-quality 3D models, manufacturing drawings, and technical documentation for playground and leisure equipment projects.
This role requires experience using Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, and the ability to create accurate, production-ready detailed drawings to support manufacturing, installation, and product development activities. Experience using Sage 200 would also be highly beneficial.
We would also welcome applications from graduate-level candidates who are eager to learn, develop their technical skills, and build a career within design and engineering.
OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE
- HNC/HND or Degree in Engineering, Product Design, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline preferred
- Relevant CAD certifications advantageous
- Proven experience in a CAD Design role within manufacturing, engineering, or product design preferred
- Strong proficiency in Autodesk Inventor
- Working knowledge of AutoCAD
- Experience using Sage 200 or similar ERP/MRP systems would be advantageous
- Ability to produce detailed engineering and fabrication drawings
- Good understanding of manufacturing processes and materials
- Experience creating assembly drawings and exploded views
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
- Graduate candidates with relevant qualifications and a willingness to learn are encouraged to apply
DESIRABLE SKILLS
- Experience within the playground, leisure, steel fabrication, or engineering sector
- Knowledge of sheet metal, welded fabrications, and machined components
- Familiarity with PDM systems and drawing control procedures
- Understanding of relevant British and European standards
YOUR MAIN DUTIES WILL INCLUDE
- Create and maintain 3D models and assemblies using Autodesk Inventor
- Produce accurate manufacturing and fabrication drawings with detailed dimensions, tolerances, and material specifications using AutoCAD and Inventor
- Generate BOMs (Bills of Materials) and technical documentation
- Input and manage project and materials data within Sage 200 where required
- Work closely with engineering, production, and project teams to develop design solutions
- Revise and update existing drawings and product data as required
- Ensure drawings comply with company standards and industry regulations
- Support prototype development and product improvement initiatives
- Assist with design reviews and technical problem-solving
- Manage drawing revisions and maintain document control procedures
- Liaise with suppliers and manufacturing teams regarding technical queries
WHY WICKSTEED LEISURE
- Attractive salary
- Pension scheme
- 25 days holiday along with bank holidays
- Early finish on Friday’s (4pm)
- Access to offers and services available through HR software
- Potential to receive company incentives
- Work closely with multiple departments and influence key decisions
- Training and development opportunities
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Opportunity to contribute to innovative leisure and playground projects
At Wicksteed Leisure Ltd, our continued success is built on innovation, quality, and the expertise of our people. As part of our Design & Engineering team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to exciting and varied projects that help create inspiring play and leisure environments. Whether you are an experienced CAD Designer or a graduate looking to develop your skills and career within a
supportive engineering environment, we would love to hear from you. Please submit a short letter of application along with your CV to [email protected]
Wicksteed is an equal opportunities employer - applicants will not be excluded on the grounds of sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, race, marital status, disability, age, religion, belief, or sexual orientation.