At a Glance
- Tasks: Create and maintain BIM-compliant CAD designs for exciting Heathrow Airport projects.
- Company: Join a specialist engineering organisation supporting major infrastructure at Heathrow.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid working model, competitive pay, and opportunities for permanent roles.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on innovative infrastructure projects while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Expertise in Revit and strong BIM capability are essential.
- Other info: Great career growth potential with a dynamic team environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A specialist engineering organisation supporting major infrastructure programmes at Heathrow Airport is seeking an experienced BIM / CAD Specialist to support NEC projects across the Heathrow portfolio.
The role focuses on the production and maintenance of BIM-compliant designs using advanced CAD and BIM applications, with a strong emphasis on 3D modelling and Revit, in line with Heathrow’s stringent BIM governance standards.
You will work closely with engineering and project delivery teams to support timely project execution, deliver robust design solutions, and manage updates across fire detection, BMS, and automation system documentation. The role requires a high level of independence, strong problem-solving capability, and effective cross-functional collaboration.
The position is primarily based at an office near Heathrow (Longford) and operates on a hybrid basis due to the specialist nature of the skillset.
Key Responsibilities:
- Produce and update BIM-compliant CAD drawings and Revit models for Heathrow Airport projects
- Develop new product designs and enhance existing designs using CAD and BIM tools
- Create and maintain wiring diagrams, schematics, layouts, and fire detection device placements
- Ensure all design outputs comply with Heathrow Airport BIM, 3D modelling, and governance requirements
- Upload, manage, and maintain the latest design information and revisions within BIM environments
- Collaborate with engineers and project managers to ensure timely and accurate project delivery
- Assess products, parts, and processes for cost efficiency, constructability, and reliability
- Manage multiple design tasks simultaneously with a high level of accuracy and autonomy
- Provide technical guidance or oversight to junior team members or external resources when required
- Participate in NEC project meetings and coordinate design updates as necessary
Essential Requirements:
- Strong BIM capability; this is a critical requirement for the role
- Expert-level proficiency in Revit (non-negotiable due to Heathrow BIM standards)
- Demonstrable experience using CAD tools for both 2D and 3D model production
- Experience working with BIM models that integrate into large, site-wide digital environments
- Proven ability to produce and update wiring documentation, device layouts, and engineering schematics
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant technical or engineering discipline
- Previous experience in design-focused roles using BIM and CAD tools
- Strong understanding of engineering design processes, standards, and multidisciplinary coordination
- Ability to work effectively both independently and within collaborative engineering teams
- High level of judgement, attention to detail, and creativity in design activities
Industry / Domain Experience
Experience in the following areas is beneficial but not essential:
- Fire detection systems
- BMS or automation systems
- Building services or wider MEP engineering environments
Strong BIM and Revit capability is the primary requirement, and candidates without direct industry background will still be considered where technical proficiency is demonstrated.
Location and Working Pattern
- Office-based near Heathrow Airport (Longford, landside access)
- Hybrid working model due to specialist skill requirements
- Typically 2–3 days on site per week, subject to project demands
- Standard daytime working hours
- Minimal to no night work anticipated
Security Requirements
Role is landside, with occasional site visits requiring temporary or full airport passes. Candidates must be UK, EU, or NATO nationals for security reasons. Background and security checks may be required depending on project scope.
Additional Information:
This role is intended as a temp-to-perm pipeline, with permanent opportunities for strong performers. Heathrow design work has transitioned heavily from 2D into strict 3D BIM environments, making high BIM fluency essential.
To apply or discuss this role in confidence, please contact Ian at Holt Engineering.
CAD Specialist employer: Holt Engineering
Contact Detail:
Holt Engineering Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land CAD Specialist
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with professionals in the BIM and CAD space, especially those who work at or with Heathrow. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and show off your passion for the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best BIM and CAD projects, especially any 3D modelling work you've done. This will give you an edge when chatting with hiring managers and help them see what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Brush up on your Revit and CAD skills before interviews. You might be asked to demonstrate your knowledge or solve a problem on the spot, so being prepared will help you shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills and interests. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace CAD Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your BIM Skills: Make sure to highlight your strong BIM capabilities in your application. We want to see how you've used BIM and Revit in past projects, so don’t hold back on those details!
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We love seeing candidates who can connect their experience directly to what we’re looking for.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Holt Engineering
✨Know Your BIM and Revit Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your BIM and Revit skills before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've used these tools, and how you ensured compliance with BIM standards. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the software, but that you can apply it effectively in real-world scenarios.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles, particularly those related to design or project delivery. Highlight how you approached these problems, the solutions you implemented, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your independence and strong problem-solving capabilities, which are crucial for this role.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Experience
Since the role involves working closely with engineering and project delivery teams, be ready to talk about your experience in cross-functional collaboration. Share specific instances where you successfully worked with others to deliver a project, and how you managed communication and updates across teams.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to CAD and BIM processes, as well as design standards. Brush up on your knowledge of wiring diagrams, schematics, and layouts. Being able to confidently answer these questions will show that you have the technical expertise needed for the role.