CAD Technician in Bozeman, Montana at NW Construction, Inc.

Summary

The CAD Technician supports the engineering, estimating, and construction teams by preparing high quality technical drawings, models, and design documentation for heavy civil construction projects. This role ensures accurate, timely, and well-coordinated plans that facilitate efficient field execution, cost estimating, and project delivery.

About NW Construction

NW Construction is a Heavy Civil Construction Contractor based in Bozeman, Montana. NWC specializes in heavy civil construction, taking on projects both large and small. Our work encompasses many areas of the construction industry, including but not limited to: Dams, Hydroelectric, RCC, Concrete, Large and Small Diameter Piping, Sheet Piling, Site Work, Utilities, Slurry Walls, Demolition, Marine, Environmental Work, Drill and Shoot and Aggregate Processing. Project sites are generally located throughout the western United States.

Location

This position is full-time onsite at our home office, located in Bozeman, MT.

Essential Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Drafting & Design Support

• Produce detailed 2D and 3D drawings, plans, and models for heavy civil construction projects (e.g., dams, highways, bridges, earthwork, utilities, site development).
• Create and update grading plans, cross sections, plan and profile sheets, utility layouts, and construction details.
• Convert engineering sketches, survey data, redlines, and markups into accurate CAD drawings.
• Assist with the development of project-specific CAD standards, layers, and templates.

Project Coordination

• Collaborate closely with project engineers, project managers, estimators, and field supervisors to ensure drawings reflect current design intent.
• Maintain version control and file organization for all CAD documents.
• Support the preparation of as-built drawings and closeout documentation.
• Work with survey and GPS modeling teams to develop machine control files, surface models, and layout data.
• Quality & Compliance
• Ensure drawings meet company CAD standards, project specifications, and regulatory requirements.
• Perform self-checks and quality reviews to minimize errors before release.
• Incorporate changes based on engineering feedback, field conditions, and constructability considerations.

Technology & Tools

• Utilize AutoCAD Civil 3D (or other required CAD platforms) to develop surfaces, alignments, corridors, and modeling elements.
• Interpret digital terrain models, survey files, point clouds, and GIS datasets.
• Support integration of CAD data with construction technology (drone mapping, machine control, survey equipment).

Competencies

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to adapt to changing project demands and priorities.
• Problem-solving mindset with a focus on constructability and field practicality.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None.

Work Environment

• Home office-based position supporting construction operations and project teams.
• Prolonged periods working on a computer using CAD and related software.
• Regular virtual collaboration with project managers, surveyors, and field personnel.
• Work is performed in a professional office setting with minimal exposure to physical hazards.
• Occasional travel to jobsites or company offices may be required for project coordination, site familiarization, or data collection (if applicable).

Minimum Requirements

• Associate degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 2–5 years of experience in CAD drafting, ideally within heavy civil or infrastructure construction.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D (or other relevant CAD software).
• Understanding of civil engineering principles, earthwork modeling, and utility layout.
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and survey data.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and document management practices.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting heavy civil construction projects.
• Experience with 3D modeling for machine control or construction survey workflows.
• Familiarity with drone data, point cloud processing, or GIS software.
• Knowledge of construction methods, sequencing, and field operations.
• Proficiency with BIM or advanced modeling tools (InfraWorks, Revit, Navisworks, Trimble Business Center).

Physical Requirements

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment.
• Ability to view a computer screen for extended periods and perform detailed visual work.
• Ability to communicate effectively via phone, video conferencing, and written communication.
• Ability to safely and effectively perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.