POSITION OVERVIEW & RESPONSIBILITIES
The Structural Detailer & Programmer 2 serves as a senior technical contributor in the Engineering department, responsible for the independent creation and optimization of complex 3D CAD models, production drawings, and CNC machine programs supporting metal fabrication operations. This position requires advanced expertise in Tekla Structures and Tekla PowerFab, combined with substantial direct experience working in a metal fabrication business environment. The Programmer 2 manages technically demanding projects with minimal supervision, mentors junior staff, ensures rigorous adherence to quality and industry standards, and drives continuous improvement in detailing and programming workflows to enhance shop floor efficiency and product quality.
Specific responsibilities will include, but not be limited to, the following:
- Independently develop and maintain accurate, complex 3D structural models, part details, and assembly drawings in Tekla Structures, applying established company drafting standards and complying with relevant codes including AISC, and ISO 9000 requirements.
- Produce precise 2D shop drawings, fabrication documents, and supporting deliverables from Tekla models and customer inputs using Tekla Structures and 2D CAD software such as Draftsight, ensuring clarity, completeness, and direct usability by shop personnel.
- Create, validate, and optimize CNC programs, nesting layouts, and machine tool paths for plasma cutting systems, tube lasers, and other fabrication equipment by leveraging Tekla PowerFab integration and associated CAM tools to maximize material utilization, minimize cycle times, and support lean production objectives in a metal fabrication environment.
- Configure and manage project data structures within Tekla PowerFab, including drawing organization, revision control, bill of materials accuracy, and production status tracking to enable efficient workflow from engineering release through shop floor execution and traceability.
- Conduct independent and thorough shop drawing and program reviews; identify potential fabrication issues, dimensional conflicts, or process risks early, implement solutions where feasible, and escalate complex matters with well-documented recommendations.
- Mentor and provide on-the-job technical guidance to Detailer & Programmer 1 team members, developing their capabilities in advanced Tekla modeling techniques, quality control self-check procedures, design standard application, and efficient project execution practices.
- Coordinate proactively with Project Management, Quality Assurance, Shop Supervisors, Estimating, and other internal stakeholders to align detailing and programming outputs with production schedules, material availability, quality requirements, and overall project objectives.
- Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives within the detailing and programming function by identifying workflow enhancements, optimizing Tekla Structures and PowerFab utilization, and contributing to the adoption of best practices that reduce errors, shorten lead times, and improve fabrication outcomes.
- Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required
- Three (3) to seven (7) years of progressive experience in structural detailing, 3D CAD modeling, and CNC programming within an active metal fabrication or structural steel manufacturing environment.
- Expert-level proficiency in Tekla Structures for advanced 3D modeling, connection detailing, drawing production, and model-based collaboration.
- Demonstrated professional experience with Tekla PowerFab in a fabrication setting, including project setup, production tracking, material management, and shop floor integration.
- Strong proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling tasks and Draftsight (or equivalent 2D CAD platform) for generating clear, standards-compliant production drawings.
- In-depth working knowledge of metal fabrication processes and shop constraints, including welding (AWS D1.1/D1.6), plasma and laser cutting, plate bending and forming, machining, and surface preparation operations.
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in CAD Design, Structural Drafting, Architectural Technology, or a closely related technical field; or an equivalent combination of formal education and progressively responsible hands-on experience.
- Proven capability to work independently with minimal supervision while effectively managing multiple complex projects, competing priorities, and tight deadlines.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to convey technical information clearly and concisely to engineering colleagues, shop floor personnel, and management.
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills; demonstrated success working effectively within cross-functional project teams in a manufacturing setting.
- Customer-focused orientation with a commitment to delivering accurate, timely, and high-quality outputs that achieve high satisfaction for both internal and external stakeholders.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without the need for work sponsorship now or in the future.
Preferred
- Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering Technology, Industrial Technology, or a related engineering discipline.
- Direct experience programming and optimizing production jobs for CNC plasma cutting systems (such as PythonX) and tube laser equipment within a metal fabrication shop.
- Familiarity with manufacturing ERP/MRP or job management systems commonly used in fabrication environments (e.g., JobBoss, Made2Manage).
- Working knowledge of quality management and traceability requirements associated with AS9100, Nadcap, or similar standards applicable to precision metal fabrication.
- Prior experience supporting fabrication projects in specialized sectors such as EV charging infrastructure, power distribution equipment, cooling systems, or custom industrial structures.
WORKING CONDITIONS
This position operates primarily in an office environment with regular and recurring engagement on the manufacturing shop floor to conduct drawing reviews, resolve production issues, validate programs, and support continuous improvement activities. Occasional exposure to typical metal fabrication shop conditions—including machinery noise, welding fumes, and material handling activity—is expected. Standard core business hours apply with flexibility required to meet project deadlines and production support needs. Occasional travel between company facilities or to customer sites may be required.
CORE BEHAVIORSTeam Player
- Works with a “Team First” attitude.
- Balances team and individual responsibilities.
- Shares expertise with others.
- Inspires respect and trust.
Demonstrates Respect for Others
- Prioritizes communication and keeps others adequately informed.
- Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views.
- Adapts communication style and method based on audience and situation.
Business Focus
- Quality focused.
- Meets commitments to internal/external customers.
- Demonstrates the ability to adapt well to change.
- Plans workflow well, manages last-minute rushes and disruptions as necessary.
- Looks for improvement in processes where possible.
- Demonstrates persistence in the achievement of goals.
- Works well under pressure.
Accountable
- Takes responsibility for own actions.
- Willingness to receive both positive and negative feedback in a constructive manner.
Pay: $26.00 - $33.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Parental leave
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
