Structural Designer

The Structural BIM Designer uses advanced digital tools to create, manage, and coordinate detailed 3D structural models based on contract drawings, specifications, and value-engineered concepts. This role supports projects from early design coordination through construction, ensuring accurate documentation, effective collaboration with project stakeholders, and alignment with project schedules and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Follow all safety and quality rules and processes to support a safe work environment and the production of high-quality deliverables.
• Read and interpret contract drawings and specifications to understand project scope and requirements.
• Prepare a detailed list of items requiring verification by internal stakeholders such as sales, estimating, project management, or the general contractor.
• Attend client turnover meetings and early in-house project kick-off meetings to understand project expectations and deliverables.
• Conduct coordination meetings with architects, engineers, and contractors to resolve design and constructability issues.
• Analyze project requirements and prepare time management plans to meet project completion dates and milestones.
• Prepare and maintain a project binder containing all relevant project documents and records.
• Issue bills of materials with long-lead items and ensure they are aligned with project needs.
• Prepare and issue all material orders required to support the project schedule.
• Prepare, receive, maintain, and issue requests for information (RFIs) and related email correspondence.
• Communicate with general contractors, project architects, and project engineers via email, telephone, or in person, and document all discussions through follow-up emails.
• Detail cover sheets, foundation plans, framing plans, elevation drawings, and related details using 3D modeling software, working closely with the project engineer as details are developed.
• Issue erection drawings and details to the general contractor or owner for review and approval.
• Collaborate with 3D designers regarding steel and shop card detailing progress to ensure coordinated output.
• Review drawings received from the general contractor or owner, approve or revise and resubmit as needed, and notify project management when marked changes may require a change order.
• Direct 3D designers on what to detail, including shop cards, and review and check their work for accuracy and completeness.
• Work closely with production teams to address and resolve conforming restraints and other production-related constraints.
• Coordinate the sequence of shop card issuance with production planning to support efficient fabrication and construction.
• Advise engineering leadership of project problems, risks, and progress to ensure timely resolution and informed decision-making.
• Issue final “For Construction” drawings and details for use by field and production teams.
• Detail repair work orders (RWOs) from sketches or markups provided, ensuring accurate and constructible solutions.

• 3 to 5 years of related experience in structural drafting, design, or construction documentation.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling software for structural applications.
• Proficient in Revit for structural BIM modeling and documentation.
• Experience with CAD and AutoCAD for structural drawings and detailing.
• Strong ability to read and interpret structural drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
• Background in structures, construction, and structural design, including precast and concrete systems.
• Ability to coordinate and communicate effectively with architects, engineers, contractors, and internal teams.
• Strong organizational skills to manage RFIs, emails, project binders, and documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Capability to develop and manage time management plans and prioritize tasks to meet project deadlines.
• Attention to detail when checking drawings, shop cards, and design output from 3D designers.

• Associate degree or equivalent education in drafting, engineering technology, construction, or a related discipline preferred.
• Experience with precast and concrete detailing.
• Familiarity with value engineering concepts and practices.
• Ability to lead and mentor 3D designers by providing direction and reviewing their work.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for clear documentation and coordination.
• Comfort working in a collaborative, cross-functional environment with engineering, production, and project management.

This is an in-office position based in Virginia, working Monday through Friday in a professional office setting. The role includes occasional site visits, providing exposure to active construction environments and field conditions. The work environment supports collaboration with engineering, production, and project management teams, and utilizes technologies such as Revit, CAD, AutoCAD, and other 3D modeling tools. Employees have access to extremely affordable health and vision insurance and a free on-site clinic located in the plant. The organization offers a structured growth and mentorship program, with significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Richmond, VA.

The pay range for this position is $31.25 - $36.06/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in Richmond,VA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 17, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $31 - $36