Dales Fabrications Limited
Graduate Designer (Manufacturing)
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We are seeking a talented and motivated Graduate Designer to join our respected and expanding design team, based at our office in Ilkeston, Derbyshire.
The successful candidate will have a sound understanding of 2D CAD packages, with AutoCAD experience being highly desirable. Ideally, you will also have some knowledge of the construction industry, structural design, or the preparation of structural and finite element (FE) analysis calculations.
About Us
We are a family-run business with over 40 years of experience in the construction industry, specialising in the design and manufacture of bespoke aluminium building products.
We offer a comprehensive range of products and services, combining design, engineering, manufacture and site support to deliver tailored solutions for our customers. To learn more about our products and the work we do, please explore our website.
The Role
Following an initial period of mentored training and development, the successful candidate will take responsibility for managing multiple design projects, working to contractual deadlines from initial architectural concept through to manufacture and site installation.
You will work closely with architects, customers, contractors and our internal fabrication team, while reporting directly to senior management. The role offers significant responsibility and the opportunity to develop a broad understanding of the complete design and construction process.
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Key responsibilities will include:
- Designing bespoke aluminium systems to meet individual customer and project requirements.
- Producing detailed AutoCAD drawings, which will account for more than 60% of the role.
- Managing multiple projects simultaneously and working to agreed contractual deadlines.
- Reviewing material requirements and associated project costs.
- Preparing and reviewing structural calculations and technical information.
- Producing site instruction and installation packages.
- Liaising with architects, customers and site teams throughout the design and installation process.
- Providing technical support by telephone and online meetings, as well as attending sites where required.
- Supporting the transition of designs from concept through manufacture and ultimately to site installation.
- Working collaboratively with our experienced design and fabrication teams to ensure designs are practical, efficient and suitable for manufacture.
Training & Career Development
We are committed to developing our people and providing opportunities for long-term career progression.
Full training will be provided through a combination of external training courses and hands-on internal training, working alongside our experienced design, engineering and fabrication teams.
This is an excellent opportunity for a graduate looking to develop a career in design, engineering and construction, gaining practical experience and responsibility within an established, growing and family-run business.
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Desired Skills
- Degree level education, preferably in architectural design, product design, structural engineering.
- Proficient in 2D CAD (2D AutoCAD LT)
- Independent
- Calm and organised
- Comfortable working to tight deadlines
- Technical / design background
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Good attention to detail
- Good working knowledge / understanding of:
- Microsoft Office Pro
- 2D AutoCAD LT
- Structural and FE analysis software.
- Technical drawing methods
Education
Bachelor’s
Work Authorisation
United Kingdom (required)
Benefits
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- On-site parking
Salary
£24,500 – £26,000
Job type
In-person, Permanent, Full-time
Schedule
Monday – Friday
Ability to commute/relocate
Ilkeston, DE7 4BG: reliably commute
How to apply
Please send a short covering letter and CV to: recruitment@dales-eaves.co.uk
Application deadline
23rd September 2026
Agencies
Strictly no agencies and any CVs submitted will be considered by us to be a “free gift”, leaving us liable for no fees whatsoever should we choose to contact the candidate directly and engage the candidate’s services.
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