Custom Millwork Engineer

USAM DC, a high-end architectural millwork firm based in Northern Virginia, is seeking a Custom Engineer to join our Engineering team. The Custom Engineer will be responsible for developing and detailing custom architectural millwork solutions, supporting multiple projects, and collaborating closely with Engineering, Production, and Project Management teams to ensure designs are accurate, manufacturable, and aligned with project requirements. This position will utilize AutoCAD and Microvellum to develop production drawings, resolve design and fabrication challenges, coordinate field conditions, and support the successful release of custom millwork projects to production.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Carry out engineering duties and assignments as directed by the Engineering Manager.
• Communicate and collaborate closely with Engineering, Production, and Project Management teams to ensure projects remain on schedule and production requirements are met.
• Follow up with team members regarding project deadlines, upcoming assignments, and outstanding engineering items, providing advance notice of potential obstacles or delays.
• Work closely with Operations and Engineering teams to identify and resolve design, fabrication, and production conflicts in a timely manner.
• Review architectural and construction documents to understand project requirements, design intent, specifications, and contracted scope of work.
• Develop custom construction details and engineering solutions as necessary to meet project requirements and design intent.
• Utilize AutoCAD and Microvellum to develop, detail, and prepare production drawings for release.
• Maintain awareness of field conditions and incorporate field measurements and updates into fabrication and production drawings as required.
• Process releases through Microvellum, saw optimization, and CAM software as required; prepare and release reports, drawings, and other documentation for production.
• Maintain a strong understanding of the materials, hardware, construction methods, and fabrication techniques used to manufacture custom architectural millwork.
• Perform accurate material take-offs for material ordering and inventory requirements.
• Review engineering work and production drawings for accuracy, completeness, constructability, and compliance with project requirements prior to release.
• Review subcontractor and vendor drawings and coordinate necessary revisions to ensure alignment with project requirements.
• Collaborate with Production and Project Management to develop practical and efficient solutions to engineering and fabrication challenges.
• Provide guidance and technical support to other team members regarding drawings, materials, hardware, fabrication methods, and project-specific questions.
• Effectively manage time, prioritize multiple projects and assignments, and meet established deadlines.
• Attend Engineering team meetings and project discussions as required.
• Maintain clear written and verbal communication regarding engineering, production, and project-related matters.
• Other duties and projects as assigned by the Engineering Manager.

OTHER DUTIES:

Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, responsibilities, or requirements that may be required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities. However, the Custom Engineer is expected to assist and guide other team members with engineering, drafting, fabrication, and project-related questions and concerns.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

This is primarily an office-based role; however, the position may require regular movement between the office and production/shop floor. The employee may occasionally be required to stand, walk, bend, reach, lift files or materials, and perform other activities necessary to review field or shop conditions and support production requirements.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Preferred Education and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Wood Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in architectural millwork, custom wood manufacturing, cabinetry, or a related industry.
• 5+ years of experience in architectural drafting, engineering, or production detailing.
• 3+ years of experience using AutoCAD and Microvellum.
• Strong understanding of custom millwork design, construction, and fabrication methods.
• Knowledge of Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) Standards.
• Experience interpreting architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
• Experience developing custom details and engineering solutions for complex millwork projects.
• Experience coordinating with production teams, project managers, subcontractors, vendors, and field personnel.

Required Education and Skills:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in architectural drafting, engineering, or a closely related field.
• Experience working with architectural millwork, cabinetry, or custom wood manufacturing.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD.
• Ability to read, interpret, and understand architectural and construction drawings.
• Understanding of millwork production methods, materials, hardware, and fabrication techniques.
• Strong problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including intermediate Excel skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee works in a both an office environment and on or near the shop floor where there may be moving mechanical parts with occasional exposure to the risk of electrical shock, outdoor weather conditions, fumes or airborne particles, and toxic or caustic chemicals. Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate and occasionally high.

TRAVEL:

Minimal travel is required for this position.