Technical Designer II Job at GROPEN INC in Charlottesville

About us

Gropen, Inc., is a full-service, custom fabrication, architectural signage, and graphics firm in Charlottesville, VA.

For over 40 years we have developed a reputation for quality products and superior results. Our clients, both locally and nationally, include architects, landscape architects, real estate developers, park administrators, hospitals, and universities, for whom we provide smart, innovative, and effective solutions. We strive to maintain a friendly, supportive culture for people who want to work, learn, and enjoy what they do. This position offers opportunities for involvement in diverse project types and professional advancement in a team-oriented, dynamic culture.

What we’re looking for

• 2-4 years of industrial design and technical drawing experience with a portfolio showcasing impactful and diverse projects (signage, wayfinding, branding, and experiential graphics projects a plus)
• Comfort with working on a large design team and cross-functionally (project management, business development, fabrication, and installation)
• Ability to read and comprehend architectural plans
• High-level understanding of geometry and building practices
• Experience in 3D software and the Adobe Creative Suite is required
• Understanding of design principles, typography, color theory, spatial relationships, and materiality in the context of environmental design
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Candidates must show the drive and initiative to stay up to speed on their software skills and new techniques/methods
• Candidates must have a growth mindset
• Ability to lead by example
• Strong problem solver and ability to pivot in the moment
• Knowledge of ADA requirements is a plus

The perks!

• Full-time salaried position
• Competitive salary compensation based on experience
• Paid holidays and PTO
• Affordable health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401k plan
• Monday-Friday, no weekends
• Career growth opportunities

Responsibilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Develop design solutions that align with clients’ objectives
• Ownership of projects from ideation to implementation
• Collaborate with project managers, fabrication, and installation teams to ensure project success
• Execute complex design solutions with precision, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of materials and fabrication techniques
• Exhibits enthusiasm, passion, flexibility, and excitement in this work and working with their peers both in the office and in the field
• Proactively seeks opportunities to increase knowledge, skills, and abilities
• Willingness to lean in and help in all areas of the design team both in the office and in the field
• Assumes positive intent in their peers and leaders
• Proactively seeks feedback and continually improves their performance
• Goal oriented
• Work well within ambiguity and can operate in high-pressure situations
• Resourceful and learns quickly
• Consultive in nature while having the ability to share their point of view both internally and externally
• High technology and innovative aptitude
• Has a multi-disciplinary mindset and shows flexibility in tasks
• Translates and helps create technical layouts into digital art files ready for production

How you’ll make a difference

Participate in all project phases, including conceptual designs, presentations, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and production. Collaborate with design team, clients, consultants, contractors, fabricators, regulatory agencies, and other vendors to meet overall project objectives. Resolve complex design issues with innovative and practical solutions. Produce graphic presentations, 3D renderings, and construction drawings. Assist in managing client expectations, team communication, and consultant coordination.