3D Exterior Sign Designer
About The Position
Archetype Signmakers is seeking a highly technical Exterior Sign Designer specializing in fully custom, fabrication-driven signage solutions. This role requires a deep understanding of structural design, material behavior, and manufacturing processes, with the ability to translate complex concepts into precise, build-ready documentation. The ideal candidate operates at the intersection of industrial design and engineering—capable of producing parametric 3D models, detailing assemblies, and specifying all materials, tolerances, finishes, and installation methodologies. This is not a concept-only role; it demands end-to-end ownership from design intent through fabrication execution. At Archetype Signs, you will contribute to highly customized, one-off signage projects where no two builds are the same. Projects demand precision, creativity, and a strong command of both digital tools and physical materials—often pushing the limits of conventional signage fabrication.
Requirements
- 5+ years of experience in custom exterior signage, architectural fabrication, or related industrial design field
- Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks, including assemblies, configurations, and weldments
- Demonstrated ability to produce highly detailed construction documents and fabrication drawings
- Deep knowledge of materials including aluminum alloys, structural steel, stainless steel, acrylics, polycarbonates, vinyl systems, and LED lighting components
- Strong understanding of fabrication processes: welding (MIG/TIG), laser cutting, CNC routing, forming, and finishing systems (powder coat, paint, anodizing)
- Experience designing for outdoor conditions, including corrosion resistance, thermal expansion, and water management
- Familiarity with applicable codes and standards (IBC, local zoning, electrical compliance, ADA where applicable)
- Ability to think spatially and mechanically, with strong problem-solving skills in complex assemblies
Nice To Haves
- Experience with FEA or basic structural analysis within SolidWorks or similar tools
- Working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator for vector-based layout integration
- Experience coordinating permitting packages and engineering submittals
- Background in architecture, mechanical design, or structural systems
- Experience with prototyping and iterative fabrication workflows
Responsibilities
- Engineer and design custom exterior signage systems including monument signs, pylons, architectural integrations, and bespoke branded environments
- Develop fully detailed SolidWorks assemblies, including weldments, sheet metal components, and multi-part structures
- Generate fabrication-ready shop drawings with complete material callouts, tolerances, fasteners, and finish specifications
- Specify structural components, internal frameworks, mounting strategies, and anchoring systems appropriate for site conditions and code requirements
- Integrate electrical components (LED systems, power supplies, raceways) into designs with consideration for serviceability and longevity
- Perform design validation for manufacturability (DFM), structural integrity, and installation feasibility
- Collaborate directly with fabricators, welders, and CNC operators to ensure accuracy between digital models and physical output
- Produce high-fidelity renderings and exploded views to communicate complex assemblies internally and to clients
- Review and incorporate site surveys, ensuring designs account for real-world constraints such as wind load, substrate conditions, and environmental exposure
- Maintain rigorous version control and documentation standards across all project files
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
11-50 employees
