Design Observer · 2 weeks ago
LEAD TECHNICAL DESIGNER
Brooklyn, NY
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$80K/yr - $105K/yr
3+ years expDesign Observer is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Lead Technical Designer to guide the design development and technical drafting of creative projects. This role involves translating complex project requirements into user-friendly technical drawings and production-ready files while collaborating closely with project managers and production teams to ensure seamless project execution.
ArchitectureDigital MediaNews
No H1B
Responsibilities
Lead the development and review of renderings, creative presentations, technical drawings, production and installation documentation, ensuring all deliverables meet client standards
Collaborate with third-party professionals – including contractors, engineers, regulatory agencies, tradespeople, AV specialists, riggers, and logistics providers
Create accurate, production-ready files for internal teams and external vendors across a range of fabrication methods, including commercial 2D/3D printing, laser cutting, metalwork, casting, CNC machining, and related processes
Support the project team through research, site surveying, estimating, prototyping, purchasing, part tracking, fabrication, installation, and quality-control across facilities
Anticipate potential project challenges and proactively offer cost-effective, efficient solutions to mitigate risks and pitfalls
Incorporate design standards, templates, and scalable labeling systems to ensure consistency and clarity throughout production
Organize and maintain project files and documentation with version control for easy cross-departmental access across one-off and recurring projects
Attend client, kick-off, departmental, and post-project review meetings
Advance company initiatives through ongoing improvements and workflow optimizations
Report to Project and Production Managers while working closely with clients and project teams to deliver exceptional, cost-effective designs and secure timely approvals
Ensure seamless project execution and alignment by supporting the Design Department Head
Mentor Technical Designers through guidance, team collaboration, skill growth, and adherence to company standards across deliverables and processes
Qualification
Required
3-5 years of technical design experience in fast-paced creative production workshops
Strong knowledge of materials, hardware, and production methods
Expert-level proficiency in Rhino, Grasshopper, or SolidWorks
Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite
Working knowledge of MS Office suite and Windows-based workflows, especially Excel
Experience with engineering concepts, CNC programming, and coding (Python or SQL)
Ability to read, interpret, and work from shop and architectural drawings
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
Highly organized and detail-oriented, with strong time management and multitasking abilities
Maintains a calm, solution-driven attitude in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
Collaborative team player with the ability to work cross-functionally across departments
Must be flexible and adaptable, with a willingness to work occasional extended hours, including overnight, and weekends, when necessary
Must be professional, punctual, and dependable, with a strong sense of accountability
Must be eligible to work in the U.S
Preferred
Bachelor's degree in industrial design, architecture, or related creative field preferred
Fusion 360 and V-Ray are a plus
Company
Design Observer
Design Observer, an online platform providing news, commentary, and criticism about design, urbanism, social innovation, and visual culture.
11-50 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Jessica Helfand
Partner, Creative Director
Company data provided by crunchbase