Job Description
Job Description
Job Title : Senior Technical Designer
Location : Charlottesville, VA
Employment Type : Full-time, On-site
Experience Level : 5+ years
About Us
Gropen, Inc. is a full-service, custom fabrication, architectural signage, and graphics firm based in Charlottesville, VA. For over 40 years, we’ve partnered with architects, developers, park administrators, hospitals, universities, and other institutions to bring clarity, identity, and storytelling to physical spaces through environmental graphics and signage. Our multidisciplinary team of designers, fabricators, and installers is committed to delivering high-quality work while fostering a positive, growth-oriented culture.
We value curiosity, ownership, and collaboration—and offer opportunities to work on diverse, impactful projects with room for personal and professional development.
What We’re Looking For
We’re seeking a seasoned and highly skilled Senior Technical Designer to contribute in the development of technical documentation for signage and experiential design projects. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, a clear communicator, and a problem solver with hands-on experience in technical design and fabrication.
Key Responsibilities
- Produce fabrication-ready drawing packages from concept through production, including shop drawings, 3D renderings, and digital files
- Collaborate with project managers, designers, fabricators, and installers to align technical output with project goals
- Assess materials, site conditions, and fabrication methods to ensure design feasibility
- Hands-on experience building in a construction environment or fabrication shop is preferred
- Provide feedback and guidance to team members and contribute to knowledge-sharing
- Uphold and refine internal drawing standards and documentation best practices
- Develop practical and constructible solutions for complex design problems
- Communicate technical design intent to clients and internal teams
- Ensure drawing sets meet compliance, accessibility, and fabrication requirements (ADA where applicable)
Qualifications
5+ years of experience in technical design for environmental graphics, industrial design, or signage fabricationExperience producing fabrication-ready documentationProficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)Advanced skills using 3D modeling software (Rhino, Fusion 360, or equivalent)Strong understanding of materials, fabrication processes, and installation methodsAbility to interpret and integrate architectural and engineering drawingsExcellent communication and leadership skillsStrong problem-solving mindset and flexibility to pivot under pressureKnowledge of ADA requirements and regulatory standards a plusGrowth mindset and drive to stay current with evolving tools and technologiesHow You’ll Make a Difference
Lead the technical execution of complex signage and experiential design projectsEnsure precision, constructability, and clear communication throughout project phasesAct as a resource and mentor within the design teamUphold high standards of craftsmanship, accuracy, and innovationKey Performance Indicators
Quality and clarity of technical documentationOn-time delivery of drawing packagesLeadership in solving complex design challengesEffective collaboration across departmentsClient satisfaction with technical accuracy and responsivenessContributions to documentation standards and internal knowledge baseBenefits
Full-time salaried positionCompetitive compensation based on experiencePaid holidays and PTOHealth, dental, and vision insurance401(k) planMonday–Friday schedule (no weekends)Career growth opportunities in a dynamic, collaborative environment