Production Drafter I

VDA - Experiential Event Design Agency; Somerville (MA); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

VDA - Experiential Event Design Agency in Somerville, MA is seeking a Technical Draftsperson (Scenic & Exhibit Fabrication) to turn design concepts into precise technical drawings and fabrication files for wood and metal construction. Proficiency in Vectorworks is essential to produce build drawings, CNC cut files, ground plans, and elevations for fabrication teams.

The role requires hands-on fabrication experience and strong problem-solving abilities.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• 3–5 years of professional drafting and fabrication experience.
• Familiarity with trade shows, exhibits, or conferences is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

• Independently interpret designer drawings and renders to create detailed build drawings for carpentry and metal fabrication.
• Develop cut files for CNC routers with minimal supervision.
• Create and refine labeled setup drawings, ground plans, and elevations for projects.
• Collaborate with Associate Director, department heads, and fabricators to optimize build techniques and shop drawings.
• Provide guidance and clarification to fabricators regarding construction techniques and methods.
• Demonstrate a solid understanding of manufacturing and assembly processes to troubleshoot design challenges.
• Manage workload effectively, communicate progress, and propose solutions to ensure project deadlines are met.

Skills

Drafting

Fabrication knowledge

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Vectorworks

Job description

Role Summary

The Technical Draftsperson (Scenic & Exhibit Fabrication) is responsible for transforming design concepts into detailed technical drawings and fabrication files for wood and metal construction. Using advanced Vectorworks 3D skills, they independently produce precise build drawings, CNC cut files, ground plans, and elevations to support fabrication teams. Collaborating closely with project managers, department heads, and fabricators, they develop efficient engineering solutions and optimize build techniques. This role requires a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, hands‑on experience with fabrication methods, and the ability to troubleshoot design challenges. The Techincal Dradftsperson manages project deadlines effectively, communicates progress, and provides clear guidance for fabricators to ensure projects are executed to the highest standards.

Responsibilities

• Independently interpret designer drawings and renders to create detailed build drawings for carpentry and metal fabrication.
• Develop cut files for CNC routers with minimal supervision.
• Create and refine labeled setup drawings, ground plans, and elevations for projects.
• Collaborate with Associate Director, department heads, and fabricators to optimize build techniques and shop drawings.
• Provide guidance and clarification to fabricators regarding construction techniques and methods.
• Demonstrate a solid understanding of manufacturing and assembly processes to troubleshoot design challenges.
• Manage workload effectively, communicate progress, and propose solutions to ensure project deadlines are met.

Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; relevant coursework or certifications in project management or event production a plus.
• Experience:
• • 3-5 years of professional drafting and fabrication experience. Fabrication Draftsperson
  • Familiarity with trade shows, exhibits, or conferences is a strong advantage.
• Skills:
• • Advanced proficiency in Vectorworks2D & 3D
  • 3-5 years of experience in exhibit, techinical drafting, with a strong portfolio of past projects.
  • Hands-on experience with wood and metal fabrication processes.
  • Ability to develop efficient engineering solutions and detailed drawings independently.
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

What We Offer

• A dynamic and creative work environment in the experiential design space.
• Opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects and world-class events.
• Competitive hourly with potential for growth.

Salary Description

25$-30$ Per Hour