Designer​/Drafter

What You Will Do

• Develop detailed 2D and 3D CAD models, drawings, and complete design packages for mechanical, electrical, structural, and architectural systems supporting facility modifications and new construction.
• Perform field walkdowns to assess existing conditions, identify deficiencies, and translate field data into accurate constructible design documentation.
• Define and apply modeling standards and CAD best practices to ensure design quality, efficiency, and configuration control.
• Collaborate directly with engineers and customers to define project requirements and translate concepts into coordinated buildable design solutions.
• Participate in and facilitate multidisciplinary design reviews; resolve drawing/model discrepancies and interface issues across mechanical, electrical, structural, and architectural disciplines.
• Apply applicable industry standards, codes, and building regulations (ASME, ANSI, ASTM, AWS, IEEE, and other relevant construction standards) to ensure compliance, safety, and constructability.
• Support cost estimating, schedule planning, material selection, fabrication methods, and construction sequencing considerations.
• Utilize Product Data Management (PDM) systems to maintain configuration integrity and document control.
• Perform complex calculations and apply technical judgement to resolve unique design challenges in static and dynamic facility environments.
• Mentor junior designers in drafting standards and coordinate design activities when acting in a lead capacity.
• Ensure safety and security compliance is integrated into all tasks; exercise stop‑work authority if necessary.
• Foster a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.

• Advanced proficiency in CAD and PDM tools for complex mechanical, electrical, structural, or architectural systems.
• Strong knowledge of modeling and drafting principles, including GD&T (ASME Y14.5 where applicable) and industry standards (ASME, ANSI, ASTM, AWS, IEEE); understanding of building codes and construction standards.
• Experience producing complete design packages for complex facility systems, structural elements, architectural layouts, renovations, or new installations in a configuration‑controlled environment.
• Ability to perform complex calculations and apply sound engineering judgement to resolve technical challenges related to construction, structural systems, utilities, or facility modifications.
• Working knowledge of engineering materials, construction methods, and building systems.
• Experience collaborating in multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, structural, architectural, and project management personnel) to define requirements and deliver coordinated design solutions.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments with increasing independence, demonstrating sound technical judgement, attention to detail, and adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to mentor junior designers and contribute meaningfully to design reviews.

• Associate’s degree in an Engineering or Technical field.
• Relevant experience: 3 years for Designer/Drafter Level 3 (or equivalent education/experience); 5 years for Level 4 (or equivalent).

• Experience mentoring junior designers or leading small design teams.
• Familiarity with DOE, LANL Engineering Standards, and Conduct of Engineering (COE) principles.
• Experience supporting facility systems, modifications, renovations, or mission‑critical infrastructure projects.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage technical and non‑technical stakeholders.

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Department of Energy security clearance (Q clearance). This typically requires U.S. citizenship.

Hybrid – partial on‑site (Los Alamos, New Mexico) and off‑site within a 2‑hour ground commute of Los Alamos. Locations can change at management discretion.

• Medical (PPO or high‑deductible) and dental/vision insurance.
• Basic life and disability insurance.
• Paid childbirth and parental leave.
• 401(k) with 6% matching plus 3.5% annually.
• Tuition assistance and learning opportunities.
• Flexible schedules and paid time off.
• On‑site gyms and wellness programs.
• Relocation assistance (outside 50‑mile radius).

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws.