Structural Detailer

Company Overview:
PermaTherm is a leading manufacturer of insulated metal panels serving the cold storage, industrial refrigeration, cleanroom, and specialty construction markets. We partner with design-build contractors, general contractors, and specialty builders to deliver high-performance building envelope solutions for mission-critical facilities across North America. As we continue our rapid growth, we're seeking a detail-oriented Estimator to join our team and support our sales and operations with accurate, competitive pricing.
 
Position Summary:
We are seeking a Structural Detailer with expertise in metal building systems and building envelope design to provide comprehensive technical support throughout the project lifecycle. This role combines structural detailing, design engineering, and customer-facing technical consultation to ensure PermaTherm's insulated metal panel systems are properly integrated into structural steel buildings. The ideal candidate will serve as a technical resource for customers, sales team, and internal operations—from initial concept and preliminary design through final construction documentation and installation support.
 
This position offers the unique opportunity to work across diverse, high-profile projects including cold storage warehouses, pharmaceutical cleanrooms, food processing facilities, and advanced manufacturing plants, while contributing directly to PermaTherm's mission of delivering innovative, high-performance building solutions.
 
Primary Responsibilities:
 
Structural Detailing (~40%)

• Shop Drawing and Fabrication Documentation:
  • Prepare detailed shop drawings and fabrication drawings for structural steel buildings incorporating insulated metal panel systems
  • Develop comprehensive panel layout drawings showing panel locations, joints, fastening patterns, and sequencing
  • Coordinate panel attachment details with structural steel framing members, ensuring compatibility and constructability
  • Develop connection details for IMP-to-steel interfaces, ensuring structural integrity, thermal performance, and air/vapor barrier continuity
  • Design and detail thermal spacer block systems to minimize thermal bridging at panel-to-structure connections
  • Produce door and window opening details, including jamb, head, and sill conditions for integration with IMP systems
• 3D Modeling and Documentation:
  • Create accurate 3D models using Tekla Structures, SDS/2, AutoCAD, Revit, or similar detailing software
  • Develop Building Information Models (BIM) for coordination with architectural, structural, and MEP disciplines
  • Generate accurate material takeoffs and cutting lists from detailed models for procurement and fabrication
  • Produce erection sequences and installation drawings to guide field crews
  • Maintain model accuracy and update drawings based on RFIs and field changes
• Coordination and Compliance:
  • Review architectural and structural drawings to identify conflicts, coordination issues, and constructability concerns
  • Coordinate with fabricators, erectors, general contractors, and design professionals on detailing requirements
  • Ensure all details comply with building codes (IBC, ASCE 7), engineering specifications, and industry standards (ASTM, FM Global)
  • Verify details meet project-specific requirements including fire ratings, thermal performance (R-value), and air barrier compliance
  • Review and incorporate structural engineer's calculations and specifications into shop drawings
  • Maintain quality control standards for all drawings and documentation produced

• Preliminary Design and Technical Consultation:
  • Assist customers with preliminary design layouts for structural steel buildings with IMP systems
  • Provide technical guidance on framing requirements to support insulated metal panels under various loading conditions
  • Recommend optimal girt and purlin spacing for various panel profiles, spans, and wind/snow/seismic loading conditions
  • Analyze panel span capabilities and develop framing layouts that optimize structural efficiency and cost
  • Design attachment systems that accommodate thermal movement, building deflections, and maintain envelope integrity
• Engineering Analysis and Calculations:
  • Perform or verify structural calculations for panel systems, connections, and attachment components
  • Analyze wind loads, snow loads, seismic forces, and thermal loads on panel systems per ASCE 7 and applicable codes
  • Calculate fastener spacing, edge distances, and connection capacities for various substrates and loading conditions
  • Evaluate panel deflection, spanning capabilities, and structural performance under design loads
  • Assess thermal bridging and condensation potential at panel connections and penetrations
  • Conduct finite element analysis (FEA) for complex connection details and non-standard conditions
  • Review and stamp calculations (where licensed) or coordinate with Professional Engineer for review and approval
• Value Engineering and Optimization:
  • Collaborate with project engineers, architects, and contractors on load calculations and structural requirements
  • Develop value engineering alternatives to optimize material usage, reduce costs, and improve constructability
  • Identify opportunities to standardize details and reduce custom fabrication requirements
  • Analyze alternative panel profiles, thicknesses, and framing systems to meet performance requirements at optimal cost
  • Recommend design modifications to improve installation efficiency and reduce field labor
• Design Documentation and Specifications:

• Create comprehensive design documentation including specifications, schedules, and details
• Develop project-specific specification sections for insulated metal panel systems (CSI Division 07 42 00)
• Prepare submittal packages including product data, shop drawings, and performance documentation
• Create standard details library for common conditions and applications

• Pre-Construction Support:
  • Support customers during the RFP/bid phase with technical design assistance and budgetary information
  • Review bid documents and specifications to identify scope, clarify requirements, and assess risks
  • Prepare technical proposals including design narratives, panel system descriptions, and performance data

• Technical Consultation:
  • Serve as primary technical contact for customers on engineering and design matters
  • Provide technical training and education to customers, contractors, and sales team on IMP systems and applications
  • Troubleshoot field installation issues and provide engineering solutions to construction challenges
  • Review contractor-proposed substitutions or modifications for technical compliance
• Project Management:
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing workload to meet deadlines and customer commitments
  • Track project progress, identify potential delays, and communicate proactively with stakeholders
  • Maintain accurate project files including calculations, drawings, correspondence, and approvals
  • Ensure timely submittal of deliverables including shop drawings, calculations, and technical documentation
  • Coordinate with external consultants including Professional Engineers, testing labs, and specialty contractors
  • Participate in project kick-off meetings, design reviews, and construction progress meetings

• Product and System Development:
  • Contribute to development of new panel profiles, connection systems, and building envelope solutions
  • Evaluate emerging materials, technologies, and construction methods for potential application
  • Participate in product testing programs and analysis of test results
  • Review and incorporate lessons learned from completed projects into standard details and specifications
  • Develop design guides and technical resources to support sales and customers
• Quality and Process Improvement:
  • Identify opportunities to improve design processes, tools, and workflows for increased efficiency
  • Contribute to development of company standards, best practices, and quality control procedures
  • Participate in root cause analysis of quality issues and implementation of corrective actions
  • Mentor junior engineers and detailers on technical skills and company standards
  • Stay current with industry trends, code changes, and emerging technologies through continuing education
• Code Compliance and Certification:
  • Monitor changes to building codes, industry standards, and regulatory requirements affecting IMP systems
  • Support product testing and certification efforts including FM Global, UL, ICC-ES, and code approvals
  • Maintain awareness of special certification requirements (FM 4880/4882 for cleanrooms, USDA for food facilities)
  • Assist with preparation of code compliance documentation and evaluation reports
  • Participate in industry committees and working groups addressing technical standards

• Education and Licensure

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Architectural Engineering required
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred, or ability to obtain within 2 years
• Engineer in Training (EIT) certification required if not yet licensed
• Applicants with equivalent experience in structural engineering and metal building systems will be considered

• Professional Experience:
  • Minimum 3-5 years of experience in structural engineering, with emphasis on metal building systems, building envelopes, or industrial construction
  • Proven experience with insulated metal panels, architectural metal panels, or pre-engineered metal building systems highly preferred
  • Background in cold storage, cleanroom, food processing, or industrial facility design strongly desirable
  • Experience with design-build project delivery and contractor/customer support
  • Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment

• Engineering and Analysis
  • Strong understanding of structural mechanics, statics, and strength of materials
  • Proficiency in structural analysis and design of steel structures, connections, and building envelopes
  • Working knowledge of building codes (IBC, ASCE 7) and steel design standards (AISC)
  • Experience with structural analysis software (RISA, SAP2000, STAAD, or similar)
  • Understanding of wind engineering, seismic design, and lateral load analysis
  • Knowledge of cold-formed steel design and light-gauge framing systems
• Software and Technical Tools
  • Advanced proficiency in CAD software: AutoCAD, Tekla Structures, SDS/2, or equivalent detailing platforms
  • Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools: Revit, Navisworks preferred
  • Competency in structural calculation software and spreadsheet-based design tools

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for engineering calculations
• Familiarity with project management and collaboration tools
• Ability to create clear, professional technical drawings and documentation

• Industry Knowledge:
  • Understanding of metal building construction practices, sequencing, and installation methods
  • Knowledge of building envelope systems including air barriers, vapor retarders, and insulation
  • Familiarity with specialty applications: cold storage, cleanrooms, controlled environments
  • Awareness of industry standards (ASTM, FM Global, UL) and product testing requirements

• Technical Excellence
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail
  • Ability to translate customer requirements into engineered solutions
  • Creative thinking to develop innovative, cost-effective designs
  • Commitment to accuracy and quality in all technical work
  • Continuous learning mindset to stay current with evolving technologies and codes
• Communication and Collaboration
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and non-technical audiences
  • Ability to explain complex engineering concepts clearly to customers, contractors, and sales team
  • Strong interpersonal skills for effective collaboration across departments
  • Professional presentation skills for customer meetings and technical training sessions
  • Active listening skills to understand customer needs and project requirements

• Project and Time Management
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects with competing deadlines
  • Strong organizational skills to maintain accurate documentation and project files

• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and take initiative
• Effective prioritization to balance urgent requests with long-term project needs
• Adaptability to changing priorities in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment

• Customer Focus
  • Customer service orientation with commitment to exceeding expectations
  • Responsiveness to customer inquiries and proactive communication
  • Problem-solving mindset to address field issues and construction challenges
  • Collaborative approach to working with design teams and contractors
  • Business acumen to understand customer needs and deliver value-added solutions
• Professional Growth
  • Opportunities for career advancement in a rapidly growing company
  • Exposure to diverse, high-profile projects across multiple industries
  • Collaborative work environment with experienced engineering professionals
  • Support for Professional Engineer licensure including exam preparation and fees
  • Access to industry training, technical seminars, and professional organization memberships
  • Mentorship and skill development in emerging technologies and advanced building systems

• Health insurance is provided 100% for Employee and 20% for spouse, if married.
• Children 26 years old or under are eligible for full insurance at employee’s expense.
• Dental insurance: Permatherm provides for 80% coverage. Spouse and children at employees’ expense
• Life Insurance $25,000 Paid by Permatherm
• Long term disability paid by Permatherm.
• Short term disability available at employee’s expense.
• 401K available to all employees through Voya Investments. Company has discretionary contribution up to 3%

• 9 Paid holidays: one day on New Year’s, MLK Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Two days for Thanksgiving, and two days for Christmas. Sick pay Up to 5 paid sick days after 1 year.
• 3 days bereavement pay for immediate family, father, mother, siblings.

• PermaTherm recognizes that employees have diverse needs for time off from work and, as such, PermaTherm has established this paid time off (PTO) policy. The benefits of PTO are that it promotes a flexible approach to time off by combining vacation, sick and personal leave. Employees are accountable and responsible for managing their own PTO hours to allow for adequate reserves if there is a need to cover vacation, illness or disability, appointments, emergencies, or other situations that require time off from work.

• Full-Time Employee PTO Rates:
  • Within first calendar year 40 Hours (5 days)
  • Beginning January 1st of 2nd Calendar year 96 hours (12 days)
  • Beginning January 1st of 5th Calendar year 144 hours (18 days)
  • Beginning January 1st of 10th Calendar years 160 hours (20 days)

• You will be asked to sign a non-compete/confidentiality agreement at the time of employment.