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CAD Designer Trainee

MASTER MODEL & FIXTURE INC

Utica, MI 48315 • $19.00 to $24.00 / hr • 9/11/2026

Job Description

Job Description
CAD Designer Trainee

Automotive Fixtures

| LOCATION
Shelby Township, MI
| PAY$19–$24 per hour | SCHEDULE
Day shift | 8–10 hours

Master Model & Fixtures Inc.
is seeking a motivated CAD Designer Trainee to join our team. This entry-level position is designed for someone with CAD education or basic 3D-modeling skills who wants to build a career in automotive fixture design and CNC programming. We specialize in prototype checking fixtures, CMM holding fixtures, weld fixtures, production check fixtures, and vacuum-form tooling for the automotive industry.

Responsibilities
· Learn to design automotive checking fixtures, holding fixtures, weld fixtures, and related tooling.
· Assist with creating complete and accurate build information for fixture builders.
· Learn to develop CNC programs for machining fixture components.
· Review customer CAD data, drawings, specifications, and design requirements with guidance.
· Work directly with experienced designers, fixture builders, machinists, and inspection personnel.
· Update designs based on customer requirements and shop feedback.
· Follow projects from initial design through machining, assembly, and final inspection.
· Maintain organized project files and revision control.

Qualifications
· Professional CAD experience is not required; recent graduates and current CAD students are encouraged to apply.
· CAD certificate, associate degree, relevant technical coursework, or equivalent demonstrated ability preferred.
· Basic experience with NX, Fusion 360, CATIA, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar 3D CAD software.
· Interest in learning automotive fixture design, CNC programming, and manufacturing processes.
· Basic ability to read engineering drawings; GD&T knowledge is a plus but not required.
· Mechanical aptitude and willingness to spend time in a hands-on machine-shop environment.
· Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, reliability, and communication skills.
· Ability to accept feedback, learn from experienced employees, and work collaboratively with the shop.

Pay & Schedule
$19.00–$24.00 per hour, based on CAD education, software experience, manufacturing knowledge, and demonstrated ability. Compensation will be reviewed based on progress and performance after the introductory period.

· Full-time day shift beginning at 6:00 a.m., Monday through Friday.
· Shifts generally range from 8 to 10 hours, depending on workload.
· Overtime may be available or required during busy periods; occasional Saturday work may be required.
· Time-and-a-half for hours worked over 40; double time for approved Sunday work.

Benefits
Health insurance • Dental insurance • 401(k) • Paid time off • Bonus opportunities

Why Join Master Model
You will learn alongside people who machine, build, and inspect the designs produced by our CAD department. This hands-on environment provides practical experience that is difficult to gain in a classroom and offers a path to develop skills in automotive fixture design, CNC programming, and manufacturing.