Job Summary
As part of a formal apprenticeship or regional training program, the Product Design Technician – Level I supports Cummins product development by creating and maintaining accurate 3D CAD models and detailed engineering drawings in accordance with Cummins standards. The role develops foundational capabilities in mechanical design, CAD modeling, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), configuration management, and engineering standards while working under the guidance of experienced technicians and engineers.
The position independently performs assigned tasks during work rotations, supports cross-functional engineering activities, and contributes to Right First Time (RFT) and On-Time Delivery (OTD) objectives while progressing toward applicable technician certification.
Key Responsibilities
- Create, modify, and maintain 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings for product components and assemblies using Creo or equivalent CAD tools.
- Support the development and maintenance of product specifications in accordance with Cummins CAD practices, procedures, and applicable engineering standards.
- Apply foundational knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to support manufacturability, inspection, interchangeability, and functional fit.
- Develop and maintain mechanical models for components and assemblies, including sheet metal, castings, welded structures, and other product configurations as applicable.
- Perform self-checks using established CAD checklists to verify model and drawing accuracy, completeness, and compliance before release.
- Create and maintain engineering bills of materials and detailed product specifications as required.
- Use CAD data management and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems to support configuration control, version management, release status, and product data security.
- Support product configuration and change management activities throughout the product lifecycle, including engineering work requests and applicable change processes.
- Apply company, industry, national, and international engineering standards to product models and drawings.
- Collaborate with engineers, designers, technicians, manufacturing, and other cross-functional teams to clarify requirements and resolve design-related issues.
- Support Drawing Quality Reviews and participate in activities that improve product and documentation quality.
- Contribute to RFT and OTD objectives by delivering accurate, error-free work within agreed timelines.
- Participate in classroom training, on-the-job learning, work rotations, and apprenticeship activities while progressing toward required certification.
- Support continuous improvement and other engineering activities as assigned.
Competency
Technical & Functional Competencies
- Mechanical Design Modeling and Analysis: Develops CAD models in accordance with established standards and supports product-level design and engineering analysis requirements.
- Mechanical Design of Mechanical Systems: Applies fundamental mechanical design knowledge to develop practical and robust design concepts considering product requirements and operating environments.
- Mechanical Design Specification: Creates and maintains accurate solid models, engineering bills of materials, and detailed drawings that communicate design intent for manufacturing and inspection.
- Product Configuration and Change Management: Supports the release, tracking, control, and communication of product changes while maintaining the integrity of product data.
- CAD & PLM Data Management: Uses CAD and PLM systems effectively to maintain product data, revisions, configuration, and security.
- GD&T and Engineering Standards: Applies basic GD&T principles and relevant engineering standards to support product quality and manufacturability.
Behavioral Competencies
- Decision Quality: Makes appropriate and timely decisions within the scope of assigned responsibilities.
- Drives Results: Completes assigned work accurately and within agreed timelines.
- Instills Trust: Demonstrates honesty, integrity, accountability, and reliability.
- Manages Complexity: Organizes and works effectively with technical information, requirements, and multiple priorities.
- Self-Development: Actively develops technical knowledge and skills through training, feedback, and hands-on experience.
- Values Differences: Works effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
Qualifications
- High school diploma, certificate of completion of secondary education, or equivalent experience in a relevant STEM field.
- Must meet the minimum educational requirements to enter a formal, regionally certified apprenticeship or technical training program.
- Registration in a regionally certified apprenticeship or learning/training program is required, where applicable.
- Additional technical or vocational education in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Design, CAD, Drafting, or a related discipline is preferred.
Skills
- Basic understanding of mechanical design and engineering drawing principles.
- Basic knowledge of 3D CAD modeling and 2D drawing creation.
- Exposure to Creo or other industry-standard CAD software is preferred.
- Basic understanding of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
- Ability to interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and technical requirements.
- Familiarity with CAD data management, PLM, configuration control, and revision management concepts.
- Attention to detail and commitment to producing accurate engineering documentation.
- Ability to work collaboratively with engineers, designers, technicians, and cross-functional teams.
- Good written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to learn new technical tools, processes, and systems.
- Basic problem-solving and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage assigned tasks and meet quality and delivery expectations.
Experience
- Minimal or no prior professional experience is required.
- Exposure to CAD modeling, mechanical drafting, product design, or engineering documentation through coursework, internships, vocational training, or apprenticeships is preferred.
- Familiarity with Creo, Windchill PLM, or similar CAD/PLM systems is an advantage but not mandatory.
- Experience with mechanical components, assemblies, or manufacturing drawings is beneficial.
