Find Jobs
Find Jobs Near You – Available Work in Your Location
Skip to job details
ME
McNally Enterprises
Senior Designer / Drafter (Experiential & Scenic Fabrication)
Career Insights for CAD Designer / Drafter
See where this job fits in the broader career landscape. Knowing your career path helps you see what's possible from here.
Scorecard
Based on California data
Review key factors to help you decide if this role fits your goals. How is this calculated?
What they do
A CAD Designer or Drafter uses computer software to convert engineering or architectural designs into technical drawings and plans.
$63,674 / year median in California
-7% projected decline
Job Description
We are seeking a Senior Level Drafter to lead and manage the creation of technical drawings and 3D models for physical builds used in live events and experiential environments. Applicants should have strong hands-on drafting experience for physical objects or environments, along with proven leadership ability. This role focuses on technical oversight, team management, and driving high-quality, build-ready documentation across multiple projects. This is a full-time, in-person position with no remote work capability. Role Overview As a Senior Level Drafter, you will be responsible for overseeing the drafting team and ensuring the successful execution of 2D and 3D drawing packages using SolidWorks. You will collaborate closely with engineers, designers, and fabricators while managing workflows, maintaining standards, and mentoring junior and mid-level drafters. This role is ideal for someone experienced, detail-oriented, and confident in leading teams within a fast-paced, hands-on production environment. Core Responsibilities Leadership & Team Management Lead, mentor, and manage a team of drafters across multiple projects Assign tasks, review work, and ensure accuracy and consistency across all deliverables Establish and maintain drafting standards, workflows, and best practices Provide guidance, feedback, and training to develop team skillsets Drafting & Technical Oversight Oversee the creation of technical drawings and plans based on design specifications Review and approve 2D drawings and 3D CAD models of components, assemblies, and environments Ensure all drawing packages are clear, accurate, and fabrication-ready Manage multiple fast-paced experiential projects while maintaining priorities, milestones, and deadlines Oversee generation of bills of materials, assemblies, and engineering calculations Collaboration & Project Execution Work closely with engineers, designers, and fabrication teams to translate concepts into buildable solutions Lead drawing reviews, redlines, and revisions across project lifecycles Communicate design intent, technical constraints, and build logic clearly across departments Act as a key liaison between design, engineering, and production teams Technical Strategy & Process Improvement Identify opportunities to improve workflows, efficiency, and documentation standards Support technical problem-solving during design, fabrication, and installation phases Ensure alignment with fabrication capabilities, materials, and structural requirements Required Qualifications 5+ years of professional drafting or CAD experience 3-5+ years of advanced experience with SolidWorks Demonstrated experience leading or managing drafting teams or projects Strong understanding of: Wood and sheet goods Metal components and weldments Fabricated structures and assemblies Experience designing metal structures such as roof systems, overhangs, or large-scale statement pieces Strong proficiency in creating detailed 2D drawing sets and complex 3D models Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Design, Engineering, Architecture, or related field (or equivalent experience) Experience in live events, theater, scenic fabrication, or experiential builds Familiarity with additional software such as SketchUp, Vectorworks, or Adobe Creative Suite Experience with electrical integration in design (power requirements, routing, etc.) Background in designing environments such as retail interiors, brand activations, or exhibitions Strong understanding of shop drawings, fabrication workflows, and production environments Core Competencies Strong leadership and team development skills Highly organized and detail-oriented Confident decision-making in fast-paced, production-driven environments Clear and effective communication across technical and non-technical teams Ability to balance big-picture oversight with hands-on execution Adaptable, proactive, and solutions-oriented mindset Portfolio Requirement Please include examples of drafting and 3D work (professional or personal projects) along with your resume. If applicable, include examples demonstrating leadership, team coordination, or complex project execution.vent-related work