Technical Publications and Illustration Lead

Butterfly Staffing is supporting a global engineering and equipment manufacturer in the search for a Technical Publications and Illustration Lead. This role combines hands-on technical illustration with leadership responsibilities across documentation development, content accuracy, and visual communication.

You will work closely with engineering, product support, suppliers, and internal teams to produce high-quality technical manuals, service bulletins, illustrated parts catalogs, and accurate 3D-based visuals that support both product usability and aftermarket operations.

This is a senior-level, engineering-adjacent position ideal for someone who excels at both technical illustration and supervising documentation workflows in a heavy-equipment OEM environment.

• Guide and mentor writers and illustrators to ensure high-quality, timely deliverables.
• Provide coaching in technical illustration and visual communication.
• Support onboarding and training on tools, standards, CMS, and PLM workflows.
• Promote knowledge sharing and continuous skill development.

• Create and revise detailed technical illustrations, including:
  • Exploded views
  • Assembly diagrams
  • Schematics
  • Cutaways
• Interpret engineering drawings and CAD models to develop accurate visuals.
• Ensure illustrations meet industry standards for print and digital formats.
• Collaborate with engineering and suppliers on updates tied to design revisions.
• Assist service teams by producing clear visuals for parts identification and ordering.

• Plan, assign, and track documentation projects aligned with product release schedules.
• Review and approve technical content for clarity, accuracy, and compliance.
• Maintain and enhance documentation templates, processes, and tools.
• Manage workflows using CMS and PLM systems to support scalable output.

• Participate in audits and ensure compliance with regulatory and customer expectations.
• Identify automation opportunities and process improvements for illustration and documentation development.
• Support cost-out initiatives by improving design efficiency and visual clarity.

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, technical communications, or related field.
• 3–6 years of relevant experience in engineering, manufacturing, or technical publications.
• At least 2 years in a senior, lead, or supervisory role.
• Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings, BOMs, and schematics.
• 3D CAD proficiency is required (PTC Creo and Iso Draw highly preferred).
• Experience with PLM/ERP/CMS systems (Infor LN experience is a plus).
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Understanding of Agile or Scrum methodologies preferred.
• Prior OEM or heavy-equipment manufacturing experience strongly preferred.

• Team-oriented with strong integrity and customer focus.
• Highly detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills.
• Safety-aware and adaptable to changing priorities.
• Strong initiative, self-development mindset, and commitment to quality.
• Ability to integrate new technologies, methods, and tooling.

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, climb, and lift up to 50 lbs as needed.
• Moderate manufacturing environment exposure (mechanical parts, airborne particles).
• Valid driver’s license and passport.
• Ability to obtain and maintain MSHA certification.
• Up to 20% domestic and international travel.