top of page

Sheet Metal Fabrication Designer

Cedar Rapids, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Overview

We are seeking a skilled and experienced Sheet Metal Fabrication Designer with expertise in Autodesk Inventor and Trimble scanning technologies. The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing and drafting sheet metal components, assemblies, and systems, with a focus on ensuring precise fabrication and manufacturing processes. This role will also require proficiency in using Trimble scanning tools to capture accurate as-built data for design modifications and quality assurance.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Design & Drafting

  • Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings of sheet metal components and assemblies using Autodesk Inventor.

  • Develop fabrication-ready designs that are accurate, cost-effective, and manufacturable.

  • Ensure designs comply with industry standards, client specifications, and project requirements.

  • Modify and optimize existing designs to improve manufacturability and assembly processes.

Sheet Metal Fabrication Expertise

  • Use knowledge of sheet metal properties, fabrication techniques (such as punching, bending, laser cutting, and welding), and material selection to develop practical designs.

  • Develop flat patterns for laser cutting, punching, and other fabrication processes.

  • Collaborate with the production team to address design challenges and ensure designs are feasible for production.

Trimble Scanning

  • Use Trimble scanning equipment (e.g., Trimble X7, SX10) to capture high-accuracy 3D scans of existing conditions and facilities. 

  • Incorporate scanned data into Autodesk Inventor for reverse engineering or as-built verification.

  • Process and interpret point cloud data to create accurate 3D models and drawings.

  • Collaborate with project teams to analyze scan data and integrate it with design modifications.

 Travel Requirements

  • Frequent travel to client project sites for scanning and on-site design work.

  • Overnight stays will be required for some projects, depending on location and schedule. A company vehicle or mileage reimbursement will be provided when travel for work is required.

  • Ability to adapt to varying project timelines and travel schedules.

Collaboration & Communication

  • Work closely with project managers, engineers, and fabrication staff to ensure smooth project execution from design to production.

  • Provide technical support and design revisions as needed during the fabrication and assembly stages.

  • Maintain clear communication with clients to ensure design accuracy and alignment with project goals. 

Quality Control & Compliance

  • Ensure that all designs adhere to quality control standards and relevant safety regulations.

  • Review and revise designs based on feedback from production teams, engineers, and clients to ensure compliance with best practices and project specifications.

  • Maintain thorough documentation of design changes, drawings, and project files.

Continuous improvement

  • Stay updated on new advancements in Autodesk Inventor, Trimble scanning technologies, and sheet metal fabrication methods.

  • Suggest improvements to design processes, tools, and techniques to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.


    Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Strong understanding of sheet metal materials, processes, and manufacturing tolerances.

  • Experience with point cloud data processing and the ability to interpret and integrate scan data into designs.

  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

  • Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to meet deadlines.

  • Familiarity with other CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.) is a plus.


Work Environment 

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced office, Field and shop environment.

  • Ability to occasionally lift and carry materials up to 25 lbs.

  • Ability to climb multiple flights of stairs or ladders to access work locations while wearing a safety harness or other safety equipment. 

  • Willingness to travel frequently for scanning projects, including overnight stays. 


Qualifications and Education Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Industrial Design, or related field preferred or the Completion of a Sheet Metal Apprenticeship program.

  • Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in sheet metal design and fabrication.

  • Proficiency in Autodesk Inventor, including advanced features like sheet metal design, assembly modeling, and drawing generation.

  • Hands-on experience with Trimble scanning systems (X7, SX10, etc.), including data capture, point cloud processing, and integration with CAD software.

  • Familiarity with sheet metal fabrication processes such as laser cutting, punching, welding, bending, and assembly.

  • Autodesk Inventor certification is a plus.

  • Trimble scanning certification or equivalent training is desirable

  • Must be willing to join the Sheet Metal Workers Union


AAP/ EEO Statement

At Modern, we understand that every employee is different in their own way. We support and thrive off those differences. We do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, retaliation, military status, or other non-merit factors. Modern is a proud equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer.

bottom of page