Technical Design Engineer

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Technical Design Engineer to join our dynamic production workshop team within the event industry. In this pivotal role, you will play a critical part in transforming creative visions into tangible, build-ready technical solutions. Your expertise will bridge the gap between innovative design concepts and their practical execution, ensuring that every custom fabrication meets the highest standards of safety, compliance, and efficiency. This position is ideal for a forward-thinking professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional results in the world of events, exhibitions, and activations.

Key Responsibilities

The Technical Design Engineer will be responsible for a wide range of technical and creative tasks, including:

• Technical Design & Drafting: Develop comprehensive production drawings, 3D conceptual models, and detailed construction plans using industry-leading software such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks. Your designs will serve as the foundation for workshop fabrication and on-site installations, ensuring precision and clarity in every detail.
• Structural Analysis & Load Calculations: Perform thorough structural assessments and load calculations to guarantee the integrity of custom event structures, rigging points, and suspended elements. Compliance with safety regulations and event-specific standards is paramount to your role.
• Prototyping & Testing: Design and fabricate prototypes for custom scenic elements, jigs, and fixtures to streamline the assembly process. Rigorous testing will be conducted to validate functionality and durability before full-scale production.
• Feasibility & Compliance: Evaluate the feasibility of design concepts while ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations, industry standards, and event-specific requirements. Your expertise will help mitigate risks and ensure seamless execution.
• Production Liaison: Collaborate closely with project managers and workshop technicians to optimize production workflows, address construction challenges, and uphold stringent quality control measures. Your proactive approach will help manage costs and timelines effectively.
• Material Management: Research, select, and oversee the procurement of materials for construction projects. Develop and maintain comprehensive Bills of Materials (BOM) to ensure transparency and efficiency in the supply chain.
• Documentation: Maintain meticulous engineering records, technical files, and "as-built" drawings to provide a clear audit trail and facilitate future reference. Accurate documentation is essential for continuous improvement and compliance.

Qualifications & Skills

To excel in this role, you will bring the following qualifications and expertise:

• Experience: A minimum of five years of hands-on experience in custom fabrication, scenic construction, exhibition design, or event production. Your background should demonstrate a proven track record of delivering high-quality technical solutions in dynamic environments.
• Education: A Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, or a closely related field. Equivalent professional experience will also be considered.
• Software Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in 3D CAD software, including SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor, as well as 2D drafting tools like AutoCAD. Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator/Photoshop) for conceptualizing and visualizing designs is a valuable asset.
• Technical Knowledge: A deep understanding of manufacturing processes, such as sheet metal fabrication, CNC machining, and carpentry, along with a strong grasp of material properties and their applications in event structures.
• Problem-Solving: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to navigate complex technical challenges in a fast-paced, deadline-driven setting. Your innovative mindset will drive continuous improvement and efficiency.
• Hands-On Approach: A willingness to engage directly with the production team on the shop floor, supporting fabrication processes, testing prototypes, and troubleshooting issues to ensure seamless execution.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

This role involves a blend of workshop-based and on-site responsibilities, with the following expectations:

• Environment: The ability to work in a workshop setting, which may include exposure to loud noise, dust, and elevated temperatures. Some on-site installation work will be required, involving varied and sometimes challenging conditions.
• Hours: Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays to meet critical event deadlines. Your adaptability and commitment to delivering results will be essential in ensuring project success.
• Physical Demands: The stamina to work in a fast-paced environment, manage tight deadlines, and perform physically demanding tasks, such as lifting, standing for extended periods, and working in diverse conditions. Your resilience and dedication will be key to overcoming operational challenges.

If you are a detail-oriented professional with a passion for technical innovation and a drive to excel in the event industry, we invite you to apply and become a vital part of our team.