CAD Designer
Inertia
Design
Livermore, CA, USA
USD 85k-135k / year
Posted on Feb 24, 2026
Location
Livermore
Employment Type
Full time
Location Type
On-site
Department
Design and Engineering
Overview
Inertia Enterprises is developing the technologies to build the world’s first fusion energy power plant. At our 48,000 sq.ft. facility in Livermore, CA, we are seeking a CAD Designer to be responsible for creation of detailed 3D models and 2D technical and engineering drawings. You will work closely with mechanical engineers to turn conceptual designs into accurate, digital models and drawings ready for design reviews or manufacturing/assembly.
Primary Responsibilities
Create 3D models and detailed 2D engineering drawings of various parts and equipment based on engineering sketches and requirements from mechanical engineers. These may include models and drawings of fusion engine parts and assemblies (chamber, first wall, breeding blankets, piping), tight-tolerance opto-mechanical parts components for laser systems, tooling parts for high-precision automated manufacturing, parts for high pressure or cryogenic systems
Use CAD tools to support design reviews by preparing accurate models, exploded views, interface checks, and tolerance analyses
Assess models for manufacturability, assembly, integration
Identify physical interferences between components and suggest geometric solutions
Produce drawing packages for manufacturing, including ISO drawings, proper dimensioning, callouts, and Bill of Materials (BOM) creation
Apply GD&T principles to drawings to ensure requirements are captured and clearly communicated to manufacturing, technicians, vendors
Prepare and export neutral files (STEP, DXF, PDF) for fabrication
Utilize the PDM/PLM (Product Data Management) system to manage file versions, check-ins, and drawing release workflows
Support in creating Inertia’s own processes, workflows, procedures, libraries and standards for CAD modelling and drafting practices
Qualifications
Required:
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Computer-Aided Design, Drafting, Mechanical Technology, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience)
3–5 years of professional experience in mechanical CAD design and drafting for nuclear, energy, aerospace, or similar industries
Strong proficiency with modern CAD tools
Solid understanding of GD&T, mechanical tolerances, fabrication methods, materials properties, drafting standards and the ability to create clean, professional 2D drawing packages
Ability to read, interpret, and develop engineering drawings, P&IDs, and system schematics
Proven ability to manage complex assemblies and maintain organized, accurate Bill of Materials (BOM)
Familiarity with PDM/PLM processes and tools
Desired:
Familiarity with ASME Y14.5 (or similar standards) for Dimensioning and Tolerancing
Familiarity with one or more of the following: large structural components, high-tolerance opto-mechanical parts, high-precision small-scale machinery parts, high-pressure systems
Familiarity with creating process flow diagrams (PFDs) and piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)
Salary & Benefits:
The base salary range for this role is $85,000 - $135,000; The pay range provided is an estimated base range for this role. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and education
We offer market-competitive compensation and an excellent benefits program, including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, company-paid holidays, matching 401k, and more!
About Inertia:
Inertia is taking the most direct, scientifically-proven path to commercializing fusion, leveraging the only successful achievement of fusion ignition, using a process that was pioneered at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). With groundbreaking innovation, transformative technology, and multi-year investment, Inertia is committed to commercializing fusion energy in the next decade.