New

Junior Technical Illustrator

PDW
YEAR
parental leave, paid time off, 401(k)
United States, Alabama, Huntsville
3414 Governors Drive Southwest (Show on map)
Aug 14, 2025
Company Overview Performance Drone Works (PDW) builds technologies for the warfighter, by the warfighter. Born out of the Drone Racing League, our roots are competitive, our mindset is tactical, and our mission is clear: deliver purpose-built unmanned systems to those who serve. We are not here to sell vapor; we build and ship real capabilities for real missions. Now, we're entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a talented and detail-oriented Junior Technical Illustrator to support the creation of precise and visually engaging technical illustrations for manuals, product documentation, training materials, and marketing assets. The ideal candidate will convert sketches, CAD models, photo references, and technical data into accurate illustrations, including 3D renderings, exploded views, and cutaways. You will play an active role in the product development lifecycle and help integrate design changes that improve product clarity, function, and operation. What You'll Do Create high-quality technical illustrations from sketches, CAD files, and photographic references. Develop exploded views, cutaway diagrams, and 3D illustrations to explain complex assemblies and components visually. Format, optimize, and export graphic files in support of print and digital publications, ensuring consistency and file compatibility. Collaborate with engineering, technical writing, and product teams throughout the product development lifecycle to gather inputs and translate technical concepts visually. Facilitate the introduction of design changes or operational improvements by updating illustrations in accordance with change requests or SME feedback. Ensure illustrations align with branding, documentation standards, and regulatory requirements (e.g., ITAR, CUI). Maintain organized libraries of illustration assets, including version-controlled source files and export-ready artwork. Support iterative reviews and contribute to refining visual content based on internal and customer feedback. Requirements Associate's or bachelor's degree in Technical Illustration, Industrial Design, Graphic Design, or related field. Proficiency in illustration and 3D rendering software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or KeyShot. Ability to interpret technical data, engineering drawings, and product sketches. Experience creating cutaway, exploded, isometric, and orthographic views of mechanical or electronic components. Strong file management and version control habits for raster and vector graphics. Familiarity with graphic formats (e.g., SVG, PNG, JPG, etc.). Excellent attention to detail and visual clarity. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate in cross-functional team settings. Preferred Experience working within Agile or product development teams. Exposure to CAD tools (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or AutoCAD) or 3D modeling workflows. Understanding of technical documentation standards and compliance requirements (MIL-STD or ITAR/CUI). Familiarity with documentation platforms such as SharePoint, GitLab, or Confluence. Physical Requirements The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties. Work Environment This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard works hours for this position are 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand. ITAR Requirement In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). Compensation and Benefits PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include: Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company. Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match. Paid Parental Leave. A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation. Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options. EEO Statement PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.