Mechanical CAD Designer

Role Summary 

We are seeking a motivated 3D Modeler to create high-fidelity, real-time 3D assets used in immersive Virtual Reality (VR) training experiences and also to create VR content on simple plate-form. This role sits at the intersection of mechanical engineering and modern real-time / game-engine pipelines. The successful candidate will convert complex engineering inputs—such as CAD models, drawings, bills of material, and technical specifications—into accurate, optimized, and visually clear 3D assets suitable for interactive VR training environments. 

This position works closely with VR developers, instructional designers, and engineering subject-matter experts to ensure all assets are technically correct, performant on target hardware, and aligned with instructional intent. 

Key Responsibilities 

Engineering-to-VR Asset Creation 

• Translate complex mechanical drawings, CAD models, and specifications into accurate, VR-ready 3D models and assemblies. 

• Maintain correct scale, tolerances, interfaces, and part relationships consistent with engineering intent. 

• Interpret incomplete or ambiguous engineering data and collaborate with subject-matter experts to resolve issues. 

• Build assemblies and sub-assemblies suitable for interactive training, including exploded views and service-oriented breakdowns. 

Real-Time Optimization for VR 

• Create real-time-ready geometry using best practices for VR and game engines, including clean topology, efficient UV layouts, and appropriate polygon budgets. 

• Generate and manage Levels of Detail (LODs) to ensure stable frame rates in VR environments. 

• Bake high-poly detail into low-poly assets using normal maps and supporting texture maps. 

• Optimize assets for draw calls, texture memory usage, and shader complexity based on VR performance constraints. 

Texturing, Materials, and Visual Clarity 

• Create high-quality Physically Based Rendering (PBR) materials using metal/roughness workflows. 

• Produce textures, decals, and material variants that enhance realism while supporting training clarity. 

• Develop visual variants such as simplified models, cutaways, highlights, and color-coded components to support instructional goals. 

• Ensure materials respond correctly across varied lighting conditions used in VR training scenarios. 

Workflow, Reviews, and Delivery 

• Follow a consistent end-to-end modeling pipeline from CAD ingestion through mesh preparation, optimization, texturing, review, and final polish. 

• Prepare assets with clean hierarchies, pivots, naming conventions, and documentation for seamless integration into VR applications. 

• Participate in design and technical reviews, incorporating feedback from engineers, developers, and instructional designers. 

• Maintain organized source files and documentation to support reuse, updates, and long-term asset maintenance. 

Required Qualifications 

• 3+ years of professional experience creating real-time 3D assets for VR, games, simulation, or interactive training. 

• Strong proficiency with at least one major DCC tool such as Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max. 

• Demonstrated experience with real-time asset optimization, including LODs, baking, and texture optimization. 

• Hands-on experience with PBR texturing workflows and material creation. 

• Mechanical engineering background (degree or equivalent practical experience) with the ability to interpret technical drawings and CAD data. 

• Portfolio demonstrating hard-surface and mechanical modeling with evidence of real-time optimization. 

Preferred / Nice-to-Have Qualifications