Designer

LED FastStart•Shreveport, LA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Designer creates AutoCAD and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) designs for non-skid kits, marine craft, and other Louisiana Association for the Blind (L.A.B.) products. The role also produces 3D-printed prototypes, parts, and production aids, including accessible tools for employees who are blind or have low vision. The Designer works with Navy and Coast Guard personnel, may conduct occasional vessel inspections, and collaborates with employees with visual impairments while meeting tight deadlines. The position supports design and drafting, additive manufacturing, laser and CNC production, government and commercial projects, documentation, and general department operations. It is based at 1104 Hawn Avenue, Shreveport, Louisiana, with listed hours of 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The annual wage is $57,928.00, depending on experience (DOE), and the position is non-exempt. The Designer reports to the Assistant Director, Laser, Design, and Die.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Formal AutoCAD training or two years of practical AutoCAD experience.
Working knowledge of 3D modeling software such as AutoCAD 3D, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or equivalent, and 3D-printer slicing software.
Experience designing for 3D printing and additive manufacturing, including hands-on operation of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers.
Ability to read and understand 2D and 3D drawings, including dimensions and tolerances.
Knowledge of industry practices, engineering, mathematics, and materials.
General operating knowledge of office machinery, computer systems, Microsoft Office, and Adobe software.
Ability to work efficiently without supervision, self-motivate, and complete tasks in a timely manner.
Attention to aesthetics and detail.
Ability to multitask efficiently in a fast-paced work environment.
Ability to travel overnight when required.

Nice To Haves

Technical or associate degree in drafting, design, or engineering technology.
Resin Stereolithography (SLA) printing experience.

Responsibilities

Generate AutoCAD designs and drawings for non-skid kits, pieces, and new or existing L.A.B. products, following applicable industry, departmental, and discipline standards.
Create detailed 2D and 3D designs for non-skid projects, L.A.B. products, and military or patrol marine craft using customer layouts or specifications.
Review design layouts for compatibility, resolve problems, propose alternative concepts to meet customer requirements, and make corrections requested by senior staff.
Create and modify 3D CAD models for parts, prototypes, jigs, fixtures, tooling, and production aids, and export print-ready files in formats such as STL, 3MF, STEP, and OBJ.
Apply design-for-additive-manufacturing principles and prepare printer build files using suitable slicing settings, materials, orientation, supports, tolerances, and infill.
Set up, operate, monitor, calibrate, and maintain 3D printers; troubleshoot defective prints; and perform post-processing, assembly, and dimensional inspections.
Produce prototypes and test-fit samples to validate designs before laser cutting, die making, or production runs.
Design and print production aids, including accessible fixtures and tactile guides for Laser, Design, and Die and Kitting & Assembly.
Reverse-engineer existing or replacement parts from samples, measurements, or 3D scans when drawings are unavailable.
Estimate print time, material usage, and cost; maintain a controlled library of 3D models, slicer profiles, print settings, and revision history.
Monitor filament and resin inventory and storage conditions, and follow manufacturer and Safety Data Sheet guidance for printer operation, ventilation, and material handling.
Submit AutoCAD designs for laser cutting with operator needs in mind, ensure designs are loaded into the laser cutter, and maintain operating knowledge of CNC machines and software.
Prepare complete project assignments, paperwork, and labels; establish drawings and checklists for quality assurance inspections; and assist with production goals.
Communicate with military personnel and equipment manufacturers, and perform remote or field work as needed, including vessel inspections to verify products match Navy and Coast Guard layouts.
Maintain current knowledge of Navy and Coast Guard regulations relevant to L.A.B. products.
Maintain accurate, correctly formatted engineering drawings and design records on company servers; update the design records database and document working processes and procedures.
Protect the confidentiality of customer drawings and designs and provide general administrative support to the department.
Collaborate on timelines, design processes, and problem solving; work with the project team to complete projects on time and within budget; and communicate technical specifications to professionals.
Research and develop products, equipment, and processes; remain familiar with costing practices; and work in conjunction with and around employees with visual impairments.
Adapt to changing objectives and tight deadlines, work flexible hours when required, and perform other duties as assigned.