CAD - Product Developer at Jackson Furniture Ind. – Cleveland, Tennessee

Job Overview
We are seeking a versatile and skilled Product Developer who can support frame engineering, upholstery pattern development, and foam design to join our Research & Development Team. This role combines CAD frame design, upholstery pattern making, foam specification work, and hands-on sample building. The ideal candidate can work seamlessly between digital design (AutoCAD & Assyst) and physical prototyping, helping launch new products efficiently and accurately.

Primary Responsibilities

Frame Design & Engineering (AutoCAD)
- Create, update, and maintain 2D and 3D frame drawings in AutoCAD.
- Draft frame assemblies, cut parts, jig templates, mechanical components, and spec diagrams.
- Interpret engineering notes, design updates, and prototype feedback.
- Support frame changes during development, testing, and production launch.
- Assist with mechanism layouts and mechanical interactions for motion furniture.

Pattern Design & Upholstery Development (Assyst)
- Develop digital upholstery patterns in Assyst (required).
- Add seam allowances, notches, grainlines, match points, and sewing marks.
- Validate patterns through physical builds on frames.
- Revise patterns based on fit issues, ease requirements, or sewing feedback.
- Maintain revision control, pattern libraries, and digital documentation.

Foam Design & Product Comfort Development
- Assist in designing foam components for seats, backs, and arms.
- Evaluate and document foam densities, ILD ratings, layering, and cut shapes.
- Work with suppliers and internal teams to test comfort variations.
- Update foam drawings, specifications, and part lists during development.
- Verify foam fit during prototype builds and recommend improvements.
Prototyping & Sample Building
- Build sample frames and assist with upholstery fit-up as needed.
- Use hand tools, staple guns, and standard shop equipment.
- Support sewing & upholstery teams during sample builds and pilot runs.
- Identify, build, or comfort issues early and propose corrective actions.

Manufacturing & Launch Support
- Work directly with plant management during early production trials.
- Troubleshoot cut/sew, upholstery, or foam-fit issues on the production floor.
- Provide clear communication to operators, supervisors, and engineers.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives across product lines.

Measurement, Data Collection & Documentation
- Measure components, record specs, and maintain technical documents.
- Create and update cut part lists, BOMs, upholstery maps, and foam spec sheets.
- Track and maintain accurate documentation for frame, pattern, and foam components.
- Organize and maintain digital files according to development standards.
- Ensure all BOM and spec data is updated consistently during the development cycle.
- Communicate changes clearly across teams.

Required Skills

Technical
- Proficiency in AutoCAD for 2D/3D drafting (required).
- Proficiency in Assyst (or comparable pattern-making software) for pattern design.
- Understanding of upholstery construction, sewing techniques, and frame structure.
- Basic understanding of foam densities, ILD, and comfort construction.
- Ability to read blueprints, engineering drawings, and 3D layouts.
- Experience with SolidWorks (preferred, not required).

Analytical
- Ability to visualize 3D shapes and translate them into accurate 2D patterns.
- Understanding how frame, foam, and fabric interact during upholstery.
- Strong accuracy in measurements and pattern/foam details.
- Ability to detect design, comfort, or fit issues early.

Communication & Teamwork
- Clear communication with engineers, sewers, upholsterers, foam suppliers, and plant leads.
- Professional and solution-based approach when identifying errors.
- Ability to collaborate across multiple departments simultaneously.

Qualifications
- Experience in upholstery pattern development and CAD drafting.
- Assyst (or comparable pattern-making software) experience required.
- AutoCAD experience required.
- Experience with foam design or upholstery comfort systems preferred.
- Upholstery, sewing, drafting, or engineering background strongly preferred.
- Degree not required; skill and experience are most important.
- Prior furniture industry experience is a strong plus.

Physical Requirements
- Lift up to 80 lbs. frequently handle ~45 lbs.
- Stand, bend, move, and work in shop environments.
- Assist with hands-on sample builds.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:
- 401(k) with employer match
- Health, dental, vision, life insurance
- Monday–Friday schedule
- Overtime as needed during launch periods