Design & Drafting Manager

Position Summary

The Design & Drafting Manager leads the design and drafting function within a modular construction manufacturing environment. Reporting to the Director of Operations, this role is responsible for overseeing the development of accurate, compliant, and production-ready designs while ensuring alignment with manufacturing processes, project requirements, and company standards. The position bridges engineering, production, procurement, and project management teams to deliver efficient, standardized, and high-quality modular solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of designers and drafters.
• Assign workloads, manage priorities, and ensure timely delivery of design outputs.
• Establish and enforce BIM standards, templates, and workflows.
• Conduct performance reviews and support ongoing professional development.
• Train and coach junior designers on design principles, drafting standards, and software tools.

Design Oversight & Technical Excellence

• Oversee the creation of 2D drawings, 3D models, shop drawings, and specifications.
• Ensure all designs are accurate, code-compliant (e.g., NBC, CSA), and constructible.
• Review and approve drawings, models, and technical documentation.
• Drive standardization of modular components and assemblies to improve efficiency.

Manufacturing Integration

• Ensure all designs are optimized for manufacturing, assembly (DFMA), transport, and installation.
• Oversee preparation of shop drawings, production packages, site package, and assembly details.
• Act as a key liaison between design and production teams to resolve technical issues.
• Support production by addressing RFIs and design clarifications in a timely manner.

Bill of Materials (BOM) Management

• Oversee the creation and accuracy of Bills of Materials (BOMs) for all modular units.
• Ensure BOMs are aligned with drawings, specifications, and procurement requirements.
• Collaborate with procurement and inventory teams to support material planning and availability.
• Implement and maintain standardized BOM structures.

Project Coordination

• Collaborate with external stakeholders including engineering consultant and architectural consultant.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders including estimate, production, quality, project management, and procurement teams.
• Participate in design reviews and ensure cross-disciplinary coordination (structural, MEP, architectural).
• Manage and implement design-related change orders, ensuring updates are accurately reflected in drawings, BOMs, and project documentation.

Quality Assurance & Compliance

• Establish and maintain QA/QC processes for all design deliverables.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, safety standards, and company policies.
• Maintain proper revision control, documentation, and drawing registers.
• Conduct design audits and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Participate in the Non-Conformance Report (NCR) process by investigating design-related issues, implementing corrective actions, and preventing recurrence.

Process Improvement & Innovation

• Drive continuous improvement in design workflows, efficiency, and accuracy.
• Implement and enhance BIM, parametric design, and automation tools.
• Develop and maintain design libraries and modular product standards.
• Identify opportunities to reduce cost, improve cycle time, and enhance product quality.

Risk Management

• Identify and mitigate design risks related to production, transport, lifting, and installation.
• Ensure early resolution of clashes and constructability issues.
• Minimize rework, delays, and cost overruns through proactive design management.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Engineering Design, Drafting Technology, Architecture, or related field.
• 8–12+ years of experience in design/drafting, preferably in modular construction or manufacturing.
• 5–7+ years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Strong knowledge of modular construction methods and manufacturing processes.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, Revit.
• Experience with BOM development and ERP/MRP systems is an asset.
• Solid understanding of building codes and standards (NBC, CSA, etc.).

Key Competencies

• Leadership and team development
• Strong technical and problem-solving skills
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Attention to detail and quality focus
• Process-driven mindset with continuous improvement focus
• Effective communication and stakeholder management

Working Environment

• Office-based with regular presence on the shop floor to support production.
• May require occasional site visits or travel to support projects.