Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer, Electrical

Company: Kahuna USA, LLC

Location: Westminster, Colorado, United States

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering / Design Operations

Date Posted: June 1, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead complex electrical, instrument, and control design initiatives for midstream oil and gas projects, leveraging advanced technical expertise and leadership.

• Drive the end-to-end workflow for significant projects, ensuring seamless integration of electrical design with other engineering disciplines and client requirements.

• Mentor and develop junior designers and drafters, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill enhancement within the electrical design team.

• Champion the evolution of group standards, practices, and pre-developed tools, contributing to operational efficiency and design innovation.

• Serve as a key technical liaison, effectively communicating project details and coordinating with internal teams, external stakeholders, and clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is highly specialized within Electrical Design for the energy sector, requiring a strong blend of technical design proficiency, project leadership, and team development capabilities. The "Lead" title signifies a senior position with significant autonomy and responsibility for project outcomes and team performance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Independently develop complex electrical, instrument, and control drawings for unique project situations using Kahuna's proprietary tools, with limited direction from engineers and clients.

• Assist with and review drawings created by less experienced designers, ensuring functional design integrity and coordinating with senior team members and engineers.

• Lead advanced 3D modeling efforts using Kahuna's pre-developed tools and facilitate team model reviews to ensure design alignment and identify potential conflicts.

• Manage the electrical design portion of large-scale projects or multiple mid-size/small projects concurrently, coordinating effectively with designers, engineers, and clients.

• Apply advanced understanding of electrical theory and National Electrical Code (NEC) to ensure designs meet all regulatory and safety standards.

• Demonstrate advanced understanding of industrial components and equipment, selecting appropriate materials and technologies for project requirements.

• Lead the development and refinement of group standards, practices, and pre-developed design tools and templates, potentially utilizing V-lisp and CUI.

• Provide comprehensive technical and administrative support to the discipline design group, overseeing progress and evaluating work quality.

• Manage coordination with other design teams (e.g., structural, mechanical, civil) to ensure seamless information flow and address interdisciplinary impacts on design execution.

• Functionally communicate technical and administrative project/task details effectively through written correspondence, emails, and general documentation.

• Organize and prepare drawings for delivery, maintaining security and confidentiality, while effectively managing multiple large projects with competing deadlines and adjusting priorities proactively.

• Operate and generate outputs from Navisworks Freedom/Manage/Simulate to facilitate integration between engineering and design, and lead model reviews for assigned projects.

• Coach and mentor junior drafters and designers, demonstrating professional behavior and effective client and vendor interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a significant emphasis on leadership, mentorship, and process improvement, in addition to core design tasks. The expectation is for this individual to not only execute designs but also to elevate the capabilities of the entire design team and contribute to the company's operational infrastructure.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive, relevant design experience.

Required Skills:

• Advanced Electrical Design for Midstream Oil and Gas projects.

• Proficiency in developing Electrical, Instrument, and Control Drawings.

• Advanced 3D Modeling capabilities using proprietary company tools.

• Strong understanding and application of National Electrical Code (NEC).

• Expertise in industrial components and equipment selection.

• Proficient in AutoCAD®, Navisworks, and Bluebeam Revu.

• Advanced understanding of engineering specifications and their impact on design.

• Excellent technical communication and documentation skills.

• Ability to lead and manage multiple projects concurrently.

• Proven ability to mentor and train less experienced designers.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with V-lisp and CUI for tool development.

• Familiarity with Navisworks Freedom/Manage/Simulate functionalities.

• Experience in developing and refining group design standards and templates.

• Basic knowledge of V-lisp and CUI.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement is framed broadly, suggesting that while 8 years is the minimum, the ideal candidate will have closer to 10-15 years to truly embody the "Lead" aspect of the role, particularly in mentoring and process improvement. Proficiency in specific software like AutoCAD, Navisworks, and Bluebeam is critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated experience in leading complex electrical design projects, showcasing the full project lifecycle from concept to completion.

• Examples of developed electrical, instrument, and control drawings that highlight problem-solving for unique project situations.

• Case studies or examples of advanced 3D modeling projects, including evidence of leading model reviews and coordinating design integration.

• Documentation of contributions to group standards, practices, or the development/improvement of design tools and templates.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of how you've documented and communicated technical and administrative project details effectively.

• Include instances of coordinating with other engineering disciplines to ensure design execution efficiency.

• Present any experience you have in organizing and preparing drawings for delivery while maintaining security and confidentiality.

• Provide examples of how you've applied NEC code and industrial component knowledge in practical design scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Lead" title and emphasis on process improvement and mentorship, the portfolio should not only showcase technical design excellence but also leadership, process optimization contributions, and the ability to guide and develop others.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $44 - $62 per hour (Approximately $91,520 - $128,960 annually, assuming a 40-hour work week).

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• 401(k) participation.

• Optional supplemental insurance coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays.

• Access to onsite fitness facilities.

Working Hours:

• Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week. While not explicitly stated as flexible, the role's leadership nature implies a need for dedication to project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate places this role in a senior technical contributor or lead position within the electrical design field in the Denver metropolitan area. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical for a full-time role in the energy sector, with a notable perk of onsite fitness facilities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy (specifically midstream oil and gas). This sector requires a strong focus on safety, regulatory compliance, and project execution efficiency.

Company Size: Kahuna USA LLC is likely a medium to large-sized organization within the energy services sector, given the mention of established processes, tools, and a structured benefits package.

Founded: The company's founding date is not specified, but its emphasis on growth and long-term relationships suggests a mature organization capable of undertaking complex projects.

Team Structure:

• The Electrical Designer reports to the Manager, Electrical Designer, indicating a clear reporting hierarchy.

• The role involves direct interaction and coordination with experienced designers, engineers, and potentially clients.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: While not explicitly detailed for this role, the emphasis on "innovation" and "empowerment" suggests a data-informed approach to design and process improvement.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: The role requires independent management of project design portions and leading the evolution of team designs and tools, pointing to a focus on efficient workflows.

• Automation and Efficiency: The use of "Kahuna pre-developed tools" and the expectation to "lead evolution of team designs and predeveloped tools/templates" indicates a commitment to leveraging technology for efficiency.

Company Website: www.KahunaUSA.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Kahuna's core values (Integrity, Relationships, Innovation, Safety, Empowerment) are central to its culture. For an operations professional, understanding how these values translate into daily work, project execution, and team interactions is key. The energy sector context means safety and integrity are paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level role within the Electrical Design discipline. It signifies a transition from a purely individual contributor role to one that includes leadership, mentorship, and process ownership. The scope of responsibility extends beyond individual design tasks to encompass project-level design management and team development.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer, Electrical reports directly to the Manager, Electrical Designer. This suggests a clear line of management and access to senior leadership for guidance and career development. The role also involves significant cross-functional interaction with engineers and other design teams.

Operations Impact: The Electrical Designer plays a critical role in the successful execution of midstream oil and gas projects. Accurate, efficient, and compliant electrical designs directly impact project timelines, budgets, safety, and operational reliability. This role contributes to the company's ability to deliver complex projects and maintain long-term client relationships.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to advance to roles like Senior Lead Designer, Engineering Supervisor, or Project Manager, overseeing larger or more complex projects. Further specialization in areas like control systems or power distribution could also be a path.

• Industry Learning: Deepening expertise in oil and gas infrastructure design, specific regulatory compliance (e.g., API standards), and advanced design software.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone management, mentorship, and team-building skills, preparing for future leadership roles within engineering or operations management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" designation implies a clear pathway for career progression within Kahuna. Candidates should look for opportunities to demonstrate leadership potential and a proactive approach to process improvement, as these are likely key factors for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Westminster, Colorado. The mention of "Access to onsite fitness facilities" suggests a campus-like or well-equipped office environment that fosters employee well-being.

Office Location(s): Westminster, Colorado. This location is part of the greater Denver metropolitan area, offering access to a robust talent pool and infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires significant coordination with experienced designers, engineers, and other design teams, indicating a highly collaborative workspace.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to and proficiency with industry-standard design software (AutoCAD, Navisworks, Bluebeam Revu) and proprietary company tools is essential. The company seems to invest in its design technology stack.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with the electrical design team, project managers, and potentially client representatives is expected.

Work Schedule: Full-time, on-site. Given the project-driven nature of the industry and the responsibilities of a lead role, a commitment to meeting project deadlines is implied. The mention of juggling multiple large projects suggests a dynamic and potentially demanding schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and emphasis on collaboration suggest a traditional office setting, but the inclusion of fitness facilities hints at a modern workplace focused on employee well-being. Candidates should be prepared for a hands-on, team-oriented environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter for experience, skills, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on electrical design principles, NEC code application, software proficiency (AutoCAD, Navisworks, Bluebeam), and experience with midstream oil and gas projects.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of design projects, highlighting complexity, problem-solving, use of company tools, and impact. This will likely include 3D modeling examples and process improvement contributions.

• Leadership & Mentorship Discussion: Assessment of ability to lead teams, mentor junior staff, and contribute to process development. Behavioral questions will likely be used.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with the Manager, Electrical Designer, or other senior stakeholders to assess overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Complexity: Select projects that demonstrate your ability to handle intricate electrical, instrument, and control designs.

• Highlight Leadership: Include examples where you led design efforts, managed teams, or mentored junior members.

• Detail Process Improvement: Present any contributions you've made to improving design workflows, developing templates, or enhancing company tools (e.g., V-lisp, CUI).

• Demonstrate Software Proficiency: Clearly illustrate your skills in AutoCAD, Navisworks, Bluebeam Revu, and any proprietary Kahuna tools.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, quantify the results of your work (e.g., time saved, efficiency gained, errors reduced).

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or skill area, with clear descriptions for each item.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical design challenges related to midstream oil and gas projects, including code compliance and component selection.

• Process Improvement Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would approach improving a design workflow, developing new templates, or mentoring a struggling team member.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to discuss your leadership style, how you motivate teams, and how you handle conflict or underperformance within a design group.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is crucial for this role. Candidates should meticulously prepare examples that showcase not just technical design skills but also leadership, mentorship, and process optimization capabilities, aligning with the "Lead" aspect of the title.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD®: Essential for 2D drafting and design. Expect to demonstrate advanced usage for complex electrical schematics and layouts.

• Navisworks Freedom/Manage/Simulate: Critical for 3D model integration, clash detection, and design reviews. Proficiency in generating outputs and leading reviews is expected.

• Bluebeam Revu: Likely used for PDF markups, collaboration, and document management.

• Kahuna Proprietary Tools: Specific company-developed tools for electrical, instrument, and control design. Familiarity with their application and the ability to contribute to their evolution is a key differentiator.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Expected for data analysis, calculations, and reporting related to design parameters, material take-offs, or project progress.

CRM & Automation:

• Microsoft Office Suite: General proficiency expected for communication, documentation, and project management tasks.

• V-lisp and CUI (Recommended): While not strictly required, knowledge of these scripting languages is recommended for contributing to the evolution of AutoCAD tools and templates, indicating a focus on automation and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes core CAD and BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools relevant to design and engineering, with a strong focus on integration and review processes via Navisworks. The mention of proprietary tools and scripting languages like V-lisp/CUI suggests that candidates who can contribute to tool development and automation will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in design, client interactions, and project execution. Ensuring designs are safe, compliant, and technically sound.

• Relationships: Building and maintaining strong working relationships with colleagues, engineers, clients, and vendors. Effective collaboration is key.

• Innovation: Proactively seeking new and improved methods for design, tool development, and process optimization. Contributing to the evolution of design practices.

• Safety: Prioritizing safety in all design decisions, adhering to industry standards and regulations (e.g., NEC) to ensure the well-being of personnel and the public.

• Empowerment: Taking ownership of responsibilities, driving projects forward, and fostering an environment where team members feel empowered to contribute and grow.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A strong emphasis on coordinating with other engineering disciplines and design teams to ensure holistic project delivery.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: An expectation to actively mentor junior designers and contribute to the collective knowledge base of the team.

• Process Improvement Focus: A proactive approach to identifying inefficiencies and opportunities for enhancing design workflows and tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values are deeply embedded in the role's expectations, particularly in how a Lead Designer is expected to interact with their team, clients, and projects. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how their work aligns with these values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Complex Projects: Juggling conflicting deadlines and priorities across several large projects requires exceptional organizational and time management skills.

• Leading and Mentoring Diverse Skill Levels: Effectively guiding and developing both experienced designers and those new to the field requires strong interpersonal and coaching abilities.

• Adapting to Proprietary Tools: Quickly mastering and contributing to Kahuna's unique design tools and templates while integrating them into standard workflows.

• Ensuring Design Compliance and Safety: Maintaining rigorous adherence to NEC code and industry best practices in a high-stakes energy sector environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Technical Training: Deepening expertise in specific areas of electrical design, control systems, or power distribution for the oil and gas industry.

• Leadership and Management Skills: Developing advanced coaching, team management, and project leadership capabilities.

• Industry Conferences and Certifications: Potential to attend industry events or pursue certifications relevant to electrical engineering and design in the energy sector.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Opportunities to lead and implement significant enhancements to the company's design processes and toolsets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented offer clear avenues for growth. By successfully navigating these, candidates can significantly enhance their professional development and prepare for more senior roles within Kahuna or the broader industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Leadership: "Describe a time you led a complex electrical design project. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" Focus on your project management, technical decision-making, and team coordination.

• Mentorship Approach: "How do you approach mentoring junior designers? Provide an example of how you've helped someone develop their skills or improve their performance." Highlight your coaching style and ability to foster growth.

• Process Improvement: "Imagine our design tools or templates could be improved. How would you identify areas for improvement and what steps would you take to implement changes?" Discuss your proactive approach to efficiency and innovation.

• Code Application: "Discuss a situation where you had to interpret or apply a complex NEC code requirement to a specific design challenge. What was your thought process?" Demonstrate your technical understanding and problem-solving skills.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Value Alignment: "How do Kahuna's core values (Integrity, Relationships, Innovation, Safety, Empowerment) resonate with your own professional philosophy and how would you embody them in this role?" Prepare specific examples.

• Collaboration Style: "Describe your ideal collaboration with engineers and other design disciplines. How do you ensure effective communication and coordination?"

• Handling Pressure: "This role involves managing multiple large projects with conflicting deadlines. How do you prioritize and stay proactive under pressure?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: For each project, tell a story: the challenge, your solution (including specific design decisions and tool usage), and the positive outcome (quantified if possible).

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your visual aids (drawings, 3D models) are clear, well-organized, and easy to understand.

• Highlight Leadership: Explicitly point out where you took a leadership role, mentored others, or contributed to process improvements.

• Tool Proficiency Demonstration: Show, don't just tell, your expertise with AutoCAD, Navisworks, Bluebeam, and any proprietary tools.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Focus on the most impactful aspects of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews for lead roles often assess not just technical competence but also leadership potential, communication skills, and cultural fit. Candidates should prepare to speak about their experiences in a way that demonstrates these qualities, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) where appropriate.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer, Electrical position:

• Submit your resume and cover letter directly through Kahuna USA's website at www.Kahunausa.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a portfolio that specifically highlights projects showcasing complex electrical, instrument, and control design, 3D modeling, and any contributions to design process improvement or tool development.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords from the job description, such as "Electrical Design," "Midstream Oil and Gas," "NEC Code," "AutoCAD," "Navisworks," "3D Modeling," "Project Management," and "Mentoring." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, prepare specific examples related to leadership and process improvement, and be ready to discuss your understanding of the company's core values.

• Company Research: Thoroughly review Kahuna USA's website (www.KahunaUSA.com) to understand their projects, culture, and values. Prepare thoughtful questions for the interviewer.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Kahuna USA, LLC before making application decisions. The company is DOT-regulated, so expect a drug screen and background check. Sponsorship is not available for this role.