Innovative Solutions To Complex Problems - ARA is globally recognized for applying our diverse science and engineering experience to drive innovation and solve complex problems.

The Prototyping Manufacturing and Integration Division (PMID) of Applied Research Associates (ARA), Inc., has an exciting opportunity for a full-time Senior Drafter working on-site at our Madison, AL facility. A Senior Drafter will provide innovative computer-aided design and drawings based on engineering sketches and proposal specifications. This will include design, development, evaluation, and modification of systems and system-oriented products. The Senior Drafter will analyze customer problems and recommend drafting techniques to satisfy customer needs. Candidate will digitize, edit, and revise engineering drawings of components, parts, circuits, structures and/or assemblies. The complexity of assignments requires exercise of considerable initiative, latitude, independent judgment, and the ability to work independently with only general technical direction.

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.

Base Pay Ranges: From $60, 000 - $62, 000 annually; it is based on years of experience as a specialized Drafter and knowledge that you may bring to the position.

Responsibilities of a Senior Drafter:

• Develop design drawings according to engineering sketches and proposal specifications
• Digitize, edit, and revise engineering drawings of components, parts, circuits, structures and/or assemblies
• Makes engineering computations, mathematical calculations, determines scales, and prepares or revises specifications
• Performs calculations needed to solve scaling, dimensioning, and cross section interpolations
• Sketches rough layout of machine and computes angles, weights, surface areas, dimensions, radii, clearances, tolerances, leverages, and location of holes
• Work closely with the drafting and engineering team to address any design-related challenges, providing support and adjustments as needed
• Gathers, maintains, formats, compiles, and manipulates technical data, such as BOMs, product/material data sheets and engineering design changes
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, drafting techniques, and software advancements, ensuring continuous improvement and innovation in the design process
• 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
• Asks for supervision for unusual cases
• Provides intermediate technical support to engineers on a variety of tasks
• Ability to manage and prioritize numerous assignments

Must Haves as a Senior Drafter:

• H.S. diploma or equivalent diploma plus advanced training and 5-6 years’ working knowledge and experience as a Drafter
• Proficiency in using the computer aided design and modeling software
• Possess a strong working knowledge of Solidworks and features in Solidworks drawings environment
• Experience in producing a drawing package which includes drafting techniques, processes, how a drawing should look, dimensions and tolerances
• Strong attention to detail and precision in translating designs into accurate technical specifications
• Capable of performing advanced drafting techniques with intermediate to advanced knowledge of practical fabrication techniques
• Ability to gather, maintain, format, compile, and manipulate technical data, such as BOMs, product/material data sheets and engineering design changes
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with the engineering, design, and production teams
• Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced manufacturing environment
• Provides solutions and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges
• A passion for staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies
• Work is checked upon completion to avoid errors and meet agreed deadlines or timelines
• May support design team through moderate to advanced additions/changes of model
• Be physically capable of wearing all required personal protective equipment to include, but not limited to safety glasses, respirator, safety shoes, hearing protection and hand protection as required

Nice if you have the following but not a dealbreaker:

• Active / current SECRET Clearance from the US Department of War
• Prior experience as a Drafter in defense or government contractor manufacturing environments
• Associates Degree
• Knowledge in electrical and/or hydraulic schematics
• Solidworks FEA analysis

#CAD #Solidworks #Drafter #CADOperator #Designer

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.

Interested in applying? Go to ARA Careers for the Senior Drafter position. #LI-AB1

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.