Mid to Senior CAD Designer (Johannesburg)

Job description

About us:

A Popular Bunch is a leading experiential activation and marketing agency with an impressive portfolio of blue-chip clients including major FMCG and liquor brands. We're a team that makes things happen — often against the odds. As a genuine 360° agency with full in-house capabilities — from creative ideation to fabrication and national implementation — we specialise in creating bold, unforgettable brand experiences that deliver measurable results. With 36 full-time employees and a state-of-the-art production facility, we control every aspect of the process, ensuring faster turnarounds and exceptional quality.

Position overview:

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Mid to Senior CAD Designer to join our creative department. Reporting to our Head of Creative, you will be instrumental in transforming bold concepts into production-ready designs for large-scale experiential activations. This role requires someone who can balance creative vision with technical precision while mentoring junior team members.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead complex 3D modeling and technical design projects from concept through to production handover
• Create detailed technical drawings, BOMs (Bill of Materials), and production specifications using Fusion360 and other industry-standard software
• Collaborate with our Creative Director and Graphic Design team to ensure technical feasibility of creative concepts
• Present technical solutions and design recommendations to internal teams and clients
• Oversee and mentor junior CAD designers, providing guidance on best practices and technical standards
• Conduct production briefings with our fabrication team, ensuring seamless creative-to-production handover
• Manage multiple high-priority projects simultaneously while maintaining our "excellence is non-negotiable" standard
• Participate in creative ideation sessions and contribute innovative solutions to design challenges
• Quality assure all technical outputs before client presentation and production
• Develop and maintain CAD standards, templates, and best practices for the department
• Research new materials, fabrication techniques, and technologies to enhance our capabilities

Essential qualifications:

• 4-7 years of professional CAD design experience, preferably in experiential marketing, retail design, or exhibition industries
• Advanced proficiency in Fusion360 (mandatory)
• Strong experience with additional software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar platforms
• Proven track record of taking projects from concept to successful fabrication
• Experience calculating material requirements and creating accurate BOMs
• Portfolio demonstrating complex 3D projects, technical problem-solving, and attention to detail

Technical skills required:

• Expert-level 3D modeling and rendering capabilities
• Proficiency in creating production-ready technical drawings and specifications
• Understanding of various fabrication methods (wood, steel, electrical integration)
• Knowledge of structural engineering principles for large-scale installations
• Experience with CNC, laser cutting, and other digital fabrication files
• Ability to optimise designs for cost-effective production without compromising quality

Key competencies:

• Leadership skills with the ability to guide and develop junior team members
• Exceptional attention to detail — "true impact is forged in the detail"
• Strong communication skills for client presentations and cross-functional collaboration
• Problem-solving mindset with the ability to find creative technical solutions
• Time management skills to handle multiple projects with tight deadlines
• Proactive approach to identifying and resolving potential production challenges
• Alignment with our values: bold, creative, fast-paced, and results-driven

What we offer:

• Market-related salary package commensurate with experience
• Opportunity to work on high-profile campaigns for leading brands
• Access to state-of-the-art production facilities and cutting-edge technology
• Professional development opportunities and skills training
• A fast-paced, hands-on environment where ideas actually get built
• Clear career progression path within a growing company
• Group medical aid cover and performance bonuses
• Be part of a Level 1 B-BBEE company making real impact

Application requirements:

• Comprehensive portfolio showcasing technical drawings, 3D renders, and completed projects
• Examples of BOMs and technical specifications you've created
• At least two professional references
• Availability to start within 30 days

Location: Johannesburg (on-site position at our HQ)

At A Popular Bunch, we're building something special — where big ideas come to life through bold execution and relentless creativity. If you're ready to join a team that makes things happen, often against the odds, we want to hear from you.

Application deadline: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis

We are committed to creating a diverse team at all levels and welcome applications from all members of the community.