Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer

Company: Kahuna USA, LLC

Location: Westminster, Colorado, United States

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-27T15:14:00

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and execute complex 3D piping designs for large-scale energy projects, including cryogenic gas processing, amine treating, refrigeration, condensate stabilization, and oil treating facilities, ensuring adherence to technical and project objectives.

• Drive the development and implementation of advanced design methodologies, standards, and tools to enhance team efficiency and project quality within the energy sector.

• Mentor and develop a team of designers, providing critical technical guidance, quality assurance, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing design environment.

• Manage multiple concurrent projects with conflicting deadlines, ensuring proactive task management, drawing accuracy, and timely delivery of all design deliverables.

• Collaborate closely with multi-discipline engineering leads and other design teams to ensure seamless information flow and integration of design efforts across various engineering disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Lead Designer in an energy-focused organization like Kahuna USA emphasizes a blend of advanced technical design skills, leadership, and project management. The focus on specific facility types (cryogenic gas processing, amine treating, etc.) and software proficiency (CADWorx Plant, Navisworks) indicates a specialized engineering operations function within the energy industry. The requirement for independent work and mentorship suggests a senior individual contributor with leadership responsibilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead piping design efforts on large-scale projects, including cryogenic gas processing, amine treating, refrigeration, condensate stabilization, and oil treating facilities, ensuring alignment with project objectives and technical requirements.

• Oversee the development and execution of complex 3D piping designs using CADWorx Plant® (or AutoCAD Plant 3D®), ensuring accurate modeling and construction drawings.

• Implement and enforce company standards and protocols for drafting, 3D modeling, and P&ID annotation, ensuring design integrity and consistency.

• Coordinate with multi-discipline engineering leads and other design teams (e.g., structural, electrical, instrumentation) to ensure integrated and efficient design execution.

• Develop and refine group standards, practices, and pre-developed tools/templates to proactively evolve team designs and improve overall efficiency.

• Prepare complex plans, sections, details, isometrics, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) with meticulous attention to design integrity, working closely with senior engineering staff.

• Independently manage multiple small to mid-sized projects with conflicting deadlines, proactively identifying potential delays and maintaining task flow and drawing accuracy.

• Utilize AutoCAD® and CADWorx Plant® to create and manage 3D models, strictly adhering to company drafting standards and protocols.

• Accurately interpret engineering specifications and apply ASME B31.3 piping codes and other relevant industry standards throughout the piping modeling and annotation process.

• Review and provide constructive feedback on drawings from less experienced designers, marking up for accuracy and functional design, contributing to their technical development.

• Consistently communicate technical and administrative project/task details via emails and general documentation, providing proactive updates on project status and workload.

• Demonstrate professionalism, punctuality, and a strong sense of ownership for assigned work, continuously seeking to improve drafting efficiency, AutoCAD capabilities, and industry knowledge.

• Perform quality checks and back-checks on design deliverables to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with project requirements.

• Assist in the development and implementation of new design technologies and workflows, such as laser scanning and point cloud drafting.

• Mentor and develop junior designers and drafters, providing technical guidance, training, and performance feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior role requiring not only strong technical design skills in piping but also leadership in mentoring, process improvement, and independent project management. The emphasis on specific energy-related facilities and adherence to industry codes like ASME B31.3 points to a specialized engineering design operational function. The expectation to lead design initiatives and contribute to company standards indicates a significant impact on operational efficiency and technical excellence.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate's degree or equivalent coursework in drafting/CAD, community college studies, or a related technical field.

Experience:

• 6–15 years of progressive relevant design experience, with a minimum of 8 years specifically in a lead designer or supervisory role.

Required Skills:

• Expert-level proficiency in CADWorx Plant®: independent 3D model building, spec editing, ISOGEN setup, and clash review.

• Advanced mastery and expert knowledge of Navisworks® tools (Freedom, Manage, Simulate); ability to perform client-facing presentations without guidance.

• Advanced mastery and expert knowledge of AutoCAD®: ability to edit and use LISP routines, tools, plotting settings, and CUI; can create new tools for efficiency and troubleshoot computer issues.

• Strong P&ID and piping annotation skills; ability to implement redlines per Kahuna standards, identify errors, and generate walkdown-based P&IDs with minimal guidance.

• Proficient in 3D modeling and associated software tools.

• Working knowledge of ASME B31.3 piping codes and other relevant industry standards.

• Ability to interpret engineering specifications and apply them to practical design solutions.

• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and lead the work of junior designers and drafters.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective stakeholder interaction and documentation.

• Highly detail-oriented, precise, and organized in producing and handling technical drawings.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while also contributing effectively within a collaborative team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• V-Lisp tool development capabilities.

• Laser scanning and point cloud drafting capabilities.

• Experience with other relevant company platforms and software.

• Supervisory or managerial training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize deep technical expertise in specific CAD software (CADWorx Plant, AutoCAD, Navisworks) and a strong understanding of piping design principles and industry codes (ASME B31.3). The distinction between "2-4 years" and "6-15 years with 8+ in lead" in the raw data suggests two slightly different levels of Lead Designer, with the latter being the more senior interpretation. The "10+" experience level derived from AI aligns with the more senior interpretation, reflecting the leadership and expert requirements. The emphasis on independent work, client presentations, and mentoring indicates a role that requires seasoned professionals.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase detailed case studies demonstrating leadership in piping design for complex energy processing facilities.

• Include examples of 3D models created in CADWorx Plant® or AutoCAD Plant 3D®, highlighting complexity, accuracy, and efficiency.

• Present P&ID annotations and walkdown-based P&ID examples, demonstrating strong annotation skills and error identification.

• Provide samples of complex plans, sections, details, isometrics, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) that illustrate design integrity and attention to detail.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and refining group standards, practices, and design tools/templates.

• Examples of workflow optimization initiatives led or contributed to, aimed at improving design efficiency and quality.

• Documentation or descriptions of how technical specifications and piping codes (e.g., ASME B31.3) were applied in previous projects.

• Case studies illustrating independent project management, including handling conflicting deadlines and proactive task management.

• Demonstrations of quality control processes, including review and back-checking of designs by junior staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Lead Designer role, the portfolio should clearly articulate the candidate's ability to not only perform complex technical design tasks but also to lead design initiatives, mentor others, and improve design processes. The emphasis should be on demonstrated leadership, technical depth in specific software and codes, and contributions to operational efficiency within the design function.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $42 - $65 per hour (Approximately $87,360 - $135,200 annually for a 40-hour work week)

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance to support employee health and well-being.

• 401(k) participation, enabling long-term financial planning and retirement savings.

• Optional supplemental insurance coverage for enhanced protection.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays, promoting work-life balance and rest.

• Access to onsite fitness facilities, encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week.

• The role requires commitment to putting in the time necessary to complete assigned tasks and meet project deadlines, which may occasionally involve working beyond standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $42-$65 per hour for a Lead Designer in Westminster, Colorado, is within the expected range for experienced engineering professionals in this specialized field. This range is competitive given the required expertise in CADWorx Plant, Navisworks, and piping design for the energy sector. The benefits package is comprehensive, covering health, financial planning, time off, and wellness, which are standard for full-time positions in the industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy (with a focus on processing facilities like cryogenic gas processing, amine treating, refrigeration, condensate stabilization, and oil treating).

Company Size: Kahuna USA, LLC is part of ADP's recruitment platform, and company size details are not directly available. However, the nature of the projects suggests a medium to large-scale engineering and project execution firm.

Founded: Information not explicitly provided, but the company emphasizes growth and long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Lead Designer will be part of the Design team, likely reporting to a Design Manager or Engineering Director.

• This role involves close coordination with multi-discipline engineering leads (e.g., process, mechanical, structural, electrical, instrumentation).

• The Lead Designer is responsible for mentoring and guiding designers at all levels within their team.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making and a strong emphasis on technical accuracy and design integrity.

• Focus on project execution, efficiency, and delivering long-term value for clients.

• Commitment to innovation in design processes and tools.

• A collaborative approach to problem-solving and workflow optimization, involving input from team members.

• Adherence to core values: Integrity, Relationships, Innovation, Safety, and Empowerment.

Company Website: www.KahunaUSA.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Kahuna USA positions itself as an energy-focused organization committed to growth, project excellence, and strong client relationships. The core values (Integrity, Relationships, Innovation, Safety, Empowerment) suggest a culture that values ethical conduct, collaboration, forward-thinking solutions, a safe working environment, and employee autonomy. The "fast-paced, collaborative, and rewarding work environment" implies a dynamic setting where high performance is recognized.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor / Team Lead. This is a senior-level position requiring significant technical expertise and the ability to lead and mentor others. It sits at the intersection of advanced technical design and team management within the engineering operations function.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will likely report to a Design Manager or Engineering Director. They will directly supervise or provide technical guidance to junior designers and drafters. Close collaboration with multi-discipline engineering leads is expected.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's impact is critical to the successful execution of large-scale energy projects. Their ability to ensure accurate, efficient, and compliant piping designs directly influences project timelines, budgets, safety, and ultimately, the client's operational success. They also play a key role in developing the skills of the design team, contributing to the company's long-term technical capability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of piping design, advanced modeling techniques, or specialized software like laser scanning and point cloud data.

• Leadership Progression: Advance into roles such as Senior Design Manager, Engineering Manager, or Project Management positions, overseeing larger teams and more complex project portfolios.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead initiatives to implement new technologies, workflows, or standards within the design department, driving greater efficiency and innovation.

• Client Engagement: Develop stronger client-facing skills, potentially leading design reviews or technical presentations for major clients.

• Mentorship Development: Formalize mentorship programs or training modules for junior designers, enhancing the overall skill set of the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Lead Designer role is a pivotal point for career advancement within engineering operations. It offers a clear path from senior technical contributor to a leadership role, with opportunities to influence process, technology, and team development. The energy sector's project-driven nature provides ample opportunities for impact and growth through diverse project experiences.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site" and mentions "Access to onsite fitness facilities," indicating a traditional office or facility-based work environment. The location is Westminster, Colorado.

Office Location(s): Westminster, Colorado. This implies a physical workspace where team collaboration and access to company resources are readily available.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is described as "fast-paced, collaborative."

• Expect a dynamic office setting where designers work closely with engineers from various disciplines.

• Access to necessary design software (CADWorx, AutoCAD, Navisworks, Bluebeam) and hardware will be provided.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time, approximately 40 hours per week.

• Due to the project-driven nature of the energy industry, there may be a requirement to put in additional time to meet project deadlines, emphasizing a results-oriented approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site work environment is crucial for the collaborative nature of design work, especially in complex engineering projects. It allows for immediate feedback, spontaneous problem-solving sessions, and effective team synergy, which are vital for detailed design tasks. The mention of onsite fitness facilities suggests a company that invests in employee well-being.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Resume and cover letter review focusing on relevant experience, software proficiency, and leadership potential.

• Technical Interview: Discussion of technical skills, piping design principles, experience with specific software (CADWorx, Navisworks, AutoCAD), and understanding of industry codes (ASME B31.3). Expect scenario-based questions related to design challenges.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of a professional portfolio showcasing past projects, design examples, and contributions to process improvement. Emphasis on demonstrating leadership, technical depth, and problem-solving abilities.

• Leadership/Behavioral Interview: Assessment of leadership style, mentoring capabilities, collaboration skills, problem-solving approach, and alignment with Kahuna's core values (Integrity, Relationships, Innovation, Safety, Empowerment).

• Final Interview: May involve senior management or engineering leadership for final assessment and offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Leadership: Highlight projects where you led design efforts, mentored junior staff, or improved design processes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples.

• Demonstrate Technical Depth: Clearly present complex 3D models, P&IDs, isometrics, and BOMs. Explain your role, the challenges faced, and the solutions implemented.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify the results of your work (e.g., efficiency gains, error reductions, cost savings).

• Highlight Software Proficiency: Detail your experience and expertise with CADWorx Plant®, Navisworks®, AutoCAD®, and Bluebeam Revu®.

• Address Process Improvement: Include examples of how you contributed to developing standards, tools, or workflows that enhanced design efficiency or quality.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss specific design challenges you've encountered and how you resolved them.

• Practice articulating your thought process for problem-solving, especially regarding complex piping layouts and code compliance.

• Be ready to explain your approach to managing multiple projects and prioritizing tasks under pressure.

• Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you mentor and develop junior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a Lead Designer role will likely be rigorous, focusing on both technical mastery and leadership capabilities. A well-curated portfolio that clearly demonstrates experience in complex energy projects, expertise in required software, and evidence of leadership and process improvement is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CADWorx Plant®: The core software for 3D piping modeling, design, and generating construction drawings. Expert-level proficiency is required, including spec editing and ISOGEN setup.

• AutoCAD®: Essential for 2D drafting, design management, and potentially LISP routine development for enhanced efficiency.

• Navisworks® (Freedom, Manage, Simulate): Critical for clash detection, design review, coordination, and client presentations. Advanced mastery is expected.

• Bluebeam Revu®: Widely used for PDF creation, markup, collaboration, and document management in engineering workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• ISOGEN: Used for generating isometric drawings from piping models, a key deliverable for construction.

• Bill of Materials (BOM) Generation Tools: Integrated within CADWorx or AutoCAD for creating material take-offs.

CRM & Automation:

• LISP Routines/V-Lisp: Custom scripts to automate repetitive tasks within AutoCAD and potentially CADWorx, improving efficiency.

• Potential for Project Management Software: While not explicitly listed, tools for task tracking and project scheduling are common in such roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in specialized CAD software like CADWorx Plant® and Navisworks® is paramount for this role. The expectation of expert-level skills, including custom tool development (LISP) and client-facing presentations with Navisworks, highlights the technical depth required. Understanding how these tools integrate into the overall design and project execution workflow is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding honesty, ethical conduct, and transparency in all design and project interactions.

• Relationships: Building and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with internal teams, engineering leads, and clients.

• Innovation: Proactively seeking and implementing new design approaches, technologies, and tools to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

• Safety: Prioritizing safety in all design considerations, ensuring compliance with regulations and best practices for energy facilities.

• Empowerment: Fostering an environment where team members are empowered to take ownership, contribute ideas, and develop their skills.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamless collaboration with process engineers, mechanical engineers, structural engineers, electrical, and instrumentation teams to ensure holistic project design.

• Proactive Communication: Regular and transparent communication regarding project status, design challenges, and workload management.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: A culture of actively mentoring junior designers and sharing expertise to elevate the team's collective capability.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to continuously improve design quality and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated core values are deeply embedded in its operational culture. For a Lead Designer, this means not only performing technical tasks but also embodying these values in team interactions, client engagements, and decision-making. A collaborative and empowering environment is crucial for success in this role, especially when mentoring junior staff and leading design initiatives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Conflicting Deadlines: Effectively prioritizing and managing multiple complex projects simultaneously to ensure timely delivery without compromising quality.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Resolving intricate piping design issues that may arise from complex facility layouts, equipment integration, or code compliance requirements.

• Mentoring Diverse Skill Levels: Guiding and developing junior designers who may have varying levels of experience and technical aptitude.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with advancements in CADWorx, Navisworks, and other design software, as well as emerging technologies like laser scanning.

• Ensuring Design Integrity: Maintaining a high standard of design accuracy and compliance across all deliverables, especially under tight project schedules.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities for specialized training in CADWorx, Navisworks, or related design and analysis tools.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications relevant to piping design, project management, or specific areas of energy processing.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to training focused on management, mentorship, and team leadership skills.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of energy sector projects that offer exposure to different facility types, design challenges, and client requirements.

• Mentorship from Senior Engineers: Learning from experienced engineers and project managers within Kahuna USA, gaining insights into best practices and career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior design role in a high-stakes industry like energy. They offer significant opportunities for professional growth by requiring the development of strong problem-solving, leadership, and time-management skills. The company's emphasis on growth and mentorship supports continuous learning and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex piping design challenge you faced on an energy project and how you (or your team) resolved it. What was your specific role and the outcome?" (Focus on technical problem-solving, leadership, and impact.)

• "How do you approach mentoring junior designers to ensure they meet project standards and develop their skills effectively?" (Assess leadership, communication, and team development approach.)

• "Walk us through your process for managing multiple concurrent design projects with competing deadlines. How do you prioritize and ensure quality?" (Evaluate project management, prioritization, and organizational skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Kahuna USA and our core values (Integrity, Relationships, Innovation, Safety, Empowerment), how would you contribute to our team culture as a Lead Designer?" (Assess cultural fit and alignment with company principles.)

• "How do you stay updated on industry best practices and new technologies in piping design and energy sector engineering?" (Evaluate commitment to continuous learning and innovation.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or complexity. For each project, clearly state your role, the project's scope, the key challenges, your design solutions, and the quantifiable results.

• Visuals: Use high-quality visuals of your 3D models, P&IDs, isometrics, and BOMs. Annotate them to highlight specific design features or problem areas you addressed.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, focusing on your contributions, leadership decisions, and how you applied specific tools and methodologies.

• Technical Detail: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your designs, including code compliance (ASME B31.3), material selection, and constructability considerations.

• Software Demonstration: If possible, be ready to briefly demonstrate your proficiency in CADWorx or Navisworks, or discuss specific features you leverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for a Lead Designer should focus on demonstrating not only technical expertise but also leadership, problem-solving acumen, and a strong understanding of how design operations contribute to project success in the energy sector. The portfolio is a critical tool for showcasing these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer position:

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

• Curate your portfolio to prominently feature your most relevant experience in piping design for energy processing facilities. Highlight leadership roles, technical proficiency in CADWorx Plant® and Navisworks®, and any process improvement initiatives.

• Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords from the job description, such as "CADWorx Plant®," "Navisworks®," "ASME B31.3," "3D Modeling," "Piping Design," "Lead Designer," and specific energy facility types.

• Prepare for your portfolio review by practicing how you will present your case studies, focusing on clear explanations of your role, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable outcomes.

• Research Kahuna USA's core values (Integrity, Relationships, Innovation, Safety, Empowerment) and prepare specific examples of how you embody these values in your work and leadership approach.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.