Technical Designer (Junior Level)

ARA; Madison (AL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee ownership

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

Applied Research Associates (ARA), Inc in Huntsville, AL is seeking a Junior Technical Designer to research, design, and develop mechanical components and systems on-site. Responsibilities include creating patterns with PatternSmith, generating 3D drawings in SolidWorks/Rhino, and producing detailed technical drawings and construction instructions.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree or equivalent and US citizenship with the ability to obtain a SECRET clearance.

Qualifications

• Completed bachelor’s degree in Technical Design or similar or up to 2 years’ related experience

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering to interpret design concepts and specs
• Create patterns and templates using PatternSmith; verify fit and material allocation
• Convert designs to 3D drawings using SolidWorks and Rhino for visualization
• Produce technical drawings with measurements, seaming details, and construction instructions
• Support production with design adjustments and feasibility feedback
• Organize design files and documentation for easy sharing
• Conduct quality checks to ensure adherence to specs and standards

Skills

SolidWorks

Rhino

PatternSmith

3D modeling

Technical drawing

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Pattern making

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Technical Design or equivalent

Associate degree in Technical Design

HS diploma with 8 years DoW experience

Tools

PatternSmith

SolidWorks

Rhino

SolidWorks PDM

Job description

The Prototype, Manufacturing and Integration (PMI) Division of Applied Research Associates (ARA), Inc (www.ara.com) has an exciting opportunity for a full-time Technical Designer (Junior level) to work on-site in our Huntsville, AL location. The potential candidate will be responsible for researching, planning, designing, and developing new applications for mechanical components, systems, and processes. This can include using analytical and investigative methods and techniques to ensure systems meet the required specifications. Designs or reviews of mechanical, structural, materials, and/or instrumentation systems. Perform original design work after receiving the design goal or problem, general method of processing and engineering advice on related theoretical aspects to be considered in the design. Reviews, writes and edits reports such as evaluation plans, test results, technical manuals, etc. to provide recommendations, conclusions, and other data.

This position will require passing a national background check. Must be able to obtain and maintain a minimum of a SECRET clearance from the US Department of War. Must be a US Citizen.

What you’ll do as a Technical Designer (Junior Level): (may not be all inclusive)

• Collaborate with the engineering team to understand and interpret their design concepts, sketches, and technical specifications
• Utilize SolidWorks or PatternSmith software to create precise patterns and templates, ensuring proper fit, dimensions, and material allocation
• Employ SolidWorks and Rhino to convert engineering designs into 3D drawings, enabling visualization and evaluation of soft good and rigid structures
• Develop comprehensive technical drawings and blueprints, including measurements, stitching details, seam allowances, and construction instructions; or metals welding, bend allowances, and assembly instructions
• Work closely with the production team to address any design-related challenges, providing support and adjustments as needed
• Collaborate with the design and product development teams to offer valuable insights on design feasibility, material choices, and construction techniques
• Manage and organize design files, patterns, and technical documentation in a systematic manner to facilitate seamless information sharing
• Conduct regular quality checks on the final products, ensuring they adhere to the established design specifications and industry standards

Must Haves As a Technical Designer (Junior Level)

• Requires a completed bachelor’s degree in Technical Design or similar and up to 2 years of Technical Design work related experience OR Associates degree in Technical Design and some Technical Design work related experience OR similar H.S. Diploma and 8 years of Technical Design in a DoW industry
• Proven experience as a Technical Designer in a manufacturing industry designing various materials, with a strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in creating technical drawings and patterns
• Proficiency in using PatternSmith software for pattern making and grading
• Proven experience with SolidWorks and Rhino for 3D modeling and visualization
• Possess a thorough knowledge of the computer aided design and modeling software
• In-depth knowledge of soft goods construction, sewing techniques, and materials; and/or metals fabrication techniques
• Strong attention to detail and precision in translating designs into accurate technical specifications
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with the engineering, design, and production teams
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to overcoming design and production challenges
• A passion for staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies
• Strong knowledge of Solidworks and Solidworks PDM
• Job requires constant pushing, pulling, sitting, sitting for long periods of time, standing, standing for long periods of time, reaching, grasping, bending, climbing, stooping, vision for near and distant work within a manufacturing site and candidate must be able to lift up to 50 lbs individually
• US citizen with ability to obtain a SECRET clearance

Wish List/Preferred

• Active / current Secret Clearance from the US Department of War
• 2+ years’ experience in Technical Design or Prototype
• Knowledge and application of industrial cutting, sewing, and joining operations
• Degree or certification in Fashion Design, Textile Design, or a related field is preferred
• Working knowledge of Solidworks Surfacing
• Advanced Proficiency with Patternsmith and Rhino software

Who is ARA?

Applied Research Associates (ARA) is a 100% employee-owned technology solutions company with more than 2,300 employee-owners across the United States and beyond. Our dedicated team brings deep technical expertise and a passion for solving complex challenges – creating innovative solutions that protect our safety, security, and way of life. At ARA, every project is an opportunity to exceed expectations. We deliver solutions that not only meet mission objectives but unlock new possibilities for the future.

Learn more about who we are and what we do by going to: www.ara.com

ARA offers competitive benefits that address our employees’ needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our ARA Benefits & Employee Owned here.