‍Location: In Office (Houston, TX)

Job Type: Full-Time, Salary Exempt

Pay: $50,000 - $70,000 per year, based on experience

Rootlab is a multidisciplinary design and fabrication firm specializing in large-scale, custom projects for museums, cultural institutions, and immersive attractions. Our work involves a high degree of complexity, creative problem-solving, and cross-disciplinary coordination.

We are currently seeking a full-time Fabrication Designer to help bring creative concepts to life through precise 3D modeling and technical development. This role sits at the core of our design-to-fabrication pipeline, translating early concepts into highly detailed models, drawings, and production-ready files.

The ideal candidate will have advanced Rhino 3D skills, a deep understanding of materials and fabrication methods, and experience developing custom designs for physical production. You should be fluent in navigating ambiguity, comfortable with rapid iteration, and excited by the challenge of engineering one-of-a-kind builds.

This position reports to the Director of Production and collaborates closely with our Project Managemnt, Design, and Production teams.

‍Key Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual designs into detailed technical models and documentation
• Collaborate with production teams to determine optimal build strategies and fabrication details
• Output clean, accurate 2D technical drawings from 3D models created by our in-house modeling team
• Create both client-facing shop drawings and internal fabrication drawings with a high degree of clarity
• Create highly detailed 3D models for use in CAM workflows, CNC output, robotic paths, and shop drawings
• Generate comprehensive construction documentation, including parts lists, exploded diagrams, and fabrication specs
• Outline material, dimensional, and hardware requirements across multiple departments
• Coordinate with the Director of Production and Project Managers to develop order-of-operations strategies for fabrication and installation
• Output CAM-ready 3dm files for CNC, robotic arm, 3D printer, and other digital fabrication tools
• Contribute to a collaborative team culture where problem-solving and knowledge-sharing are valued

‍Required Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency in Rhino 3D
• Strong working knowledge of fabrication materials, techniques, and how they interact in physical builds
• Experience creating detailed construction drawings and models suitable for architectural millwork fabrication
• Experience in architectural millwork design and/or fabrication
• Familiarity with digital fabrication tools such as CNC routers, robotic arms, and 3D printers
• Strong organizational and creative problem-solving skills
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with parametric design using Grasshopper or similar tools
• Experience with organic modeling and complex geometry
• Familiarity with Creaform 3D scanning systems and reverse engineering workflows
• Experience with fabrication software such as SprutCAM, RhinoCAM, or Vectric Aspire
• Self-motivated, dependable, and professional in demeanor
• Enthusiasm for building, making, and working through complex design challenges

‍Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with 50% company contribution
• Paid time off, plus 8 paid holidays per year
• 401(k) with company match after 1 year
• Annual PPE and gear allowance
• Opportunities for advancement in a creative, fast-moving company
  

This is a chance to play a vital role in building unforgettable spaces and experiences—from giant sculptural installations to intricately detailed exhibits. If you're passionate about making the improbable possible through design and precision modeling, we’d love to hear from you.

‍To apply, send your resume and relevant work samples to hiring@rootlab.com.

Rootlab is an equal opportunity employer. We believe diverse perspectives make better work.