Technical Illustrator

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Technical Illustrator

Job Description

The Technical Illustrator converts complex 3D engineering models into clear, user-friendly 2D illustrations for assembly manuals and related documentation. This role works from a prioritized project queue, collaborates closely with engineering teams, and uses tools such as SolidWorks, Adobe Illustrator, and SolidWorks Composer to produce accurate, visually engaging technical content. The position offers a supportive, family-oriented culture, opportunities for advanced training and mentorship, and the chance to make an immediate impact on a high-demand project team.

Responsibilities

• Work from a daily project priority queue to manage and complete illustration assignments in a timely manner.
• Access the server to search and retrieve correct assembly numbers and associated engineering data.
• Pull SolidWorks files and synchronize them with the appropriate illustration and documentation software.
• Convert SolidWorks files into a composer program to optimize and lighten files and drawings for efficient use.
• Create detailed Bills of Material (BOM) for assemblies and ensure all components are accurately represented.
• Develop exploded views of parts and assemblies to clearly illustrate how components fit and function together.
• Transform 3D models into precise 2D drawings suitable for assembly manuals and technical documentation.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teams to identify, correct, and update drawings as issues or improvements arise.
• Ensure all illustrations align with engineering standards, branding guidelines, and documentation requirements.
• Contribute to improving illustration workflows and processes as the team works to get back on schedule.
• Communicate progress, challenges, and resource needs to relevant stakeholders to keep projects on track.

Essential Skills

• At least 1 year of experience with Adobe Illustrator, SolidWorks Composer, or project management.
• Proficiency with Adobe Illustrator for creating and editing technical graphics and illustrations.
• Experience with SolidWorks and related tools for accessing and handling 3D engineering models.
• Ability to convert 3D models into clear, accurate 2D drawings for assembly and technical manuals.
• Strong graphic design skills with an emphasis on clarity, readability, and technical accuracy.
• Ability to create Bills of Material (BOM) and exploded views from engineering data and models.
• Strong collaboration skills to work effectively with engineering and cross-functional teams.
• Attention to detail and accuracy when working with complex assemblies and technical information.
• Bachelors degree in Bio Pre-Med Illustration (BPMI), Scientific Illustration and Visualization, or Industrial Design.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with composer programs to optimize and lighten complex technical files.
• Experience in scientific or industrial illustration, particularly for assembly manuals or technical documentation.
• Familiarity with project-based work environments and managing tasks via a priority queue.
• Strong communication skills to clearly discuss technical issues and drawing corrections with engineers.
• Interest in ongoing professional development, including advanced training in engineering practices.
• Motivation to contribute to a team that is working to meet aggressive deadlines and improve schedule performance.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, mentorship-focused culture with opportunities for engagement beyond day-to-day work.

Work Environment

The role is based in Pella, Iowa, in a cubicle-style office environment within a larger campus of multiple plants. The illustration team consists of approximately 25 people distributed across seven different facilities, and the position involves frequent collaboration with engineering groups. The organization promotes a family-oriented culture with many opportunities to get involved in activities, including informal sports and social events, and offers advanced training and mentorship programs for professional growth. The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, typically between 6:00/7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., with an expectation of flexibility to meet with various teams as needed. A hybrid work schedule is available after an initial period on-site. The workplace follows a 'dress for your day' attire policy, where most employees wear jeans and a nice shirt or branded polo, allowing individuals to dress appropriately based on their meetings and daily responsibilities.

This is a Contract position based out of Des Moines, IA.

The pay range for this position is $23.50 - $25.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

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 hybrid position in Des Moines,IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Oct 16, 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 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

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 View email address on ziprecruiter.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.