Designer II

Sierra Nevada Corporation; Sparks (NV); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision plans

401(k) with 150% match up to 6%

3 weeks paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Sierra Nevada Corporation, located in Sparks, NV, is seeking a Designer II to develop and refine complex designs for aerospace and defense projects. The successful candidate will lead design efforts, ensure adherence to standards, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

Applicants should have 2+ years experience in design within the industry and an associate degree in a relevant field. The position offers a generous benefits package including health, 401(k) with company match, and paid time off.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in design or drafting within aerospace/defense.
• Understanding of engineering principles and practices.
• Experience working in multi-disciplinary design teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of designs, technical drawings, and 3D models.
• Coordinate with engineers and project managers to ensure specifications.
• Prepare documentation to support design reviews.

Skills

Proficiency with CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA)

Design principles understanding

Strong problem-solving skills

Teamwork

Education

Associates degree in Design, Drafting, or related field

Advanced degree in Engineering or Industrial Design (preferred)

Tools

Computer Aided Design software

Project management software

Job description

If you are a self-starter known for your partnership skills and keen eye for detail, come join us! The Designer II is a mid-level position responsible for developing and refining complex designs, technical drawings, and models for advanced aerospace and defense projects. This role involves leading design efforts, ensuring adherence to design standards, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams to meet project requirements. The Mission Solutions and Technologies (MST) business area provides affordable, turn-key command/control, communications, integrated ISR, force protection and security solutions worldwide. The MST team has a long legacy of supporting the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, commercial and international customers with years of experience in platform operations, engineering and full lifecycle management across domains – air, land, sea, space and cyber.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of detailed designs, technical drawings, and 3D models for complex aerospace and defense projects.
• Oversee the review and refinement of layouts, drawings, and models for accuracy and adherence to design standards.
• Identify and resolve design errors, omissions, and deficiencies, and implement improvements.
• Coordinate with engineers, project managers, and other stakeholders to ensure designs meet project specifications and budget constraints.
• Prepare comprehensive documentation and reports to support design reviews and project milestones.
• Utilize advanced Computer‑Aided Design (CAD) software and other design tools to create high‑quality technical drawings and models.
• Mentor junior designers and provide technical guidance and support.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant regulatory and safety requirements.
• Participate in design meetings and contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and standards.

Qualifications You Must Have

• Associates degree in Design, Drafting, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in design or drafting within the aerospace and defense industry.
• Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.
• Proficiency with CAD software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or CATIA.
• Strong understanding of design principles, drafting standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Understanding of engineering principles and practices.
• Experience working in multi‑disciplinary design and development teams.
• Experience with Computer Aided Engineering tools.
• Experience with technical schematics, diagrams, blueprints, manual and/or publications.
• Basic knowledge of industry standard design principles, to include, but not limited to parametric design, model‑based definition, material hardware and/or electrical component selection, fabrication, manufacturing, and production processes.

Qualifications We Prefer

• Advanced degree in Engineering, Industrial Design, or a related field.
• Extensive experience with advanced CAD tools and techniques.
• Familiarity with project management software and methodologies.
• Exposure to full lifecycle design processes and agile development practices.
• Basic understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Essential Functions

• Ability to work on a computer for extended periods, including proficiency with design and drafting software.
• Must be able to work in an office or hybrid environment.
• Ability to travel occasionally as required by project needs.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for interacting with team members and stakeholders.

Benefits

SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

Security Clearance

IMPORTANT NOTICE: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non‑U.S. citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use. Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances.

EEO Statement

SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.