Mechanical Arts Technician

Position Summary: The Mechanical Arts Technician is responsible for transforming architectural design-intent construction documents into comprehensive, highly-detailed shop and submittal drawings for commercial wood and metal fabrication. This role serves as a critical link between the design team, clients, and production shops, ensuring that complex structural and aesthetic concepts are translated accurately for client approval, manufacturing, and field installation. The ideal candidate possesses a strong mechanical aptitude, exceptional attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of commercial wood and metal construction techniques, codes, and engineering standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Design and Manufacturing Liaison:

• Convert architectural and design-level construction drawings into detailed shop drawings and cutting lists for both wood and metal components.
• Read and interpret complex architectural drawings, structural engineering plans, and commercial building codes.
• Integrate critical technical details, including material specifications, commercial hardware, structural connections, and finishing methods.
• Utilize advanced CAD software to develop high-precision 2D drafting packages and complex 3D assembly models.
• Coordinate with designers, engineers, client representatives, and shop fabricators to resolve design discrepancies and ensure manufacturability.
• Generate and maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) for projects to ensure correct and timely material procurement.
• Conduct self-reviews and participate in peer reviews to ensure drawings are accurate and meet all project specifications and company standards.
• Assist in the creation of prototypes and test assemblies, incorporating necessary design changes into the final documentation.
• Adhere to established drafting standards and fabrication shop procedures, as well as relevant industry codes.

Technical Resource:

• Proficiency in CAD software, to include Enroute, Sketchup, AutoCad or similar modeling SW.
• Strong understanding of woodworking and metal fabrication techniques (e.g., cutting, bending, welding, finishing).
• Ability to read and interpret complex technical drawings and blueprints.
• Knowledge of standard measurement tools and techniques.
• Conduct hands-on testing and analysis of new designs and fabrication methods as required.
• Actively engage on the shop floor to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues.
• Work directly with production teams to improve LEAN flow and process quality.
• Conduct GEMBA walks to identify and resolve in process production assembly issues.
• Provide technical support for on-site field installation teams to address quality and assembly issues.

Process Improvement:

• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance production and installation efficiency.
• Conduct root cause countermeasures (RCCMs) of design-related issues and develop corrective actions.
• Develop technological advancements to streamline design and production workflows.
• Provide recommendations and support for product enhancements and/or new product development initiatives.

Collaboration and Cross-Functional Support:

• Work closely with design, sales, and manufacturing teams to meet client requirements, specifications, and design intent.
• Collaborate with sales and commercial operations to develop bid strategies and facilitate accurate estimates and winning proposals providing value engineering alternatives as required.
• Collaborate with commercial ops to improve accuracy of BOMs and manufacturing estimates
• Align design specifications with manufacturing and field capabilities.
• Review work packets to shop leads and third-party vendors as required to facilitate manufacturing quality and delivery
• Support development and implementation of new product initiatives as required.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Additional responsibilities may be assigned by Manager, as needed.

 Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong understanding of wood and metal fabrication techniques, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Proven experience in developing shop drawings and work packets.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to identify constructability and design issues.
• Strong problem-solving skills with hands-on experience troubleshooting and resolving issues on the shop floor.
• Understanding of SQDC (Safety, Quality, Delivery, Cost) and LEAN principles.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.

General: 

• The employee is expected to adhere to all company policies.
• Must maintain a validly issued and current driver’s license. 
• No direct reports

Education and Work Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in design development and production, preferably in wood and metal manufacturing.

What Success Looks Like at Salem

At Salem, we've learned that long-term success isn't determined by experience alone. The employees who thrive here consistently demonstrate five key qualities we call our Formula for Success.

• Adaptability: Our business moves quickly, and client needs can change fast. Successful team members stay flexible, think ahead, solve problems, and embrace change without losing focus.
• Dependability: We count on one another. Success means showing up prepared, following through on commitments, taking ownership, and being someone your teammates can rely on.
• Self-Motivation: The best employees don't wait to be told what to do. They take initiative, look for ways to improve, enjoy learning, and push through challenges with determination.
• Open & Honest Communication: Strong teams are built on trust. We value employees who communicate openly, ask for help when needed, share concerns early, and work collaboratively to solve problems.
• Positive Attitude: Attitude is contagious. We look for people who bring energy, encourage their teammates, stay solution-focused, and make the workplace better for everyone around them.

If these qualities describe you, there's a good chance you'll thrive at Salem Sports.

Why Salem?

We're building a team—not just filling positions.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: 

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including standing, walking, and operating equipment as needed.
• May require occasional lifting of materials or equipment.
• Exposure to noise, heat, and other conditions typical of a manufacturing facility

Expected Hours of Work/Travel:

• Full-time position requiring flexibility in schedule to meet production demands.
• Occasional travel to other facilities, as necessary.

NOTE: This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. The responsibilities, tasks, and duties of the jobholder may be revised or modified at any time by the Company without prior notice.