Detaling Engineer - Events

The Detailing Engineer sits within SELA's fabrication and production workshop, converting design concepts, 3D

renders, and structural/architectural drawings into fully dimensioned, buildable shop drawings for event sets,

exhibition stands, scenic elements, staging, and structures. He/she is the technical bridge between the Design

department and the Workshop floor, ensuring every fabricated piece is engineered for accuracy, material efficiency, structural integrity, and safe rigging/installation before a single cut is made. This is a detail-critical, deadline-driven role requiring strong CAD/3D modeling skills combined with practical knowledge of fabrication methods used in live events.

Key Responsibilities

1. Detailing & Technical Drawing

• Shop Drawing Production: Convert approved concept designs, 3D renders, and architectural drawings into detailed 2D fabrication drawings and cutting lists for carpentry, metalwork, and scenic elements.
• 3D Modeling: Build accurate 3D models (AutoCAD, SketchUp, Tekla, Solidworks, or equivalent) of sets, stands, and structures to validate dimensions, tolerances, and assembly sequence prior to production.
• Material & BOQ Take-off: Generate precise bills of quantities and cut lists for timber, steel, aluminum, MDF, acrylic, and other fabrication materials to minimize wastage and support accurate procurement.
• Structural Detailing: Detail load-bearing elements, connections, weld points, and fixings for platforms, trusses, staging, and rigging points, ensuring designs are structurally sound and code-compliant.
• Clash Detection: Cross-check drawings against MEP, AV, lighting, and rigging layouts to identify and resolve clashes before fabrication begins.

1. Production Support & Coordination

• Workshop Liaison: Work directly with the Installation Team Leader, carpenters, welders, and fabricators to clarify drawings, resolve on-the-shop-floor queries, and update details based on practical build constraints.
• Design Liaison: Coordinate with Designers and Project Managers to confirm design intent, obtain approvals on technical revisions, and communicate any design changes required for buildability.
• As-Built Updates: Revise and reissue drawings to reflect on-site or in-workshop modifications, maintaining an accurate as-built record for each project.
• CNC & Machine Files: Prepare CNC cutting/routing files and machine-ready outputs where applicable, to streamline pre-fabrication in the workshop.

1. Quality & Compliance

• Design Validation: Verify that all detailed drawings meet client specifications, structural safety margins, and applicable Saudi building and event safety codes.
• Documentation Control: Maintain organized, version-controlled drawing registers and issue drawings through proper revision and approval workflows.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify recurring detailing issues or fabrication inefficiencies and recommend standardized details, templates, or jigs to improve workshop throughput.

Qualifications & Skills

• Education: Bachelor's degree or diploma in Mechanical/Civil/Structural Engineering, Architecture, Industrial Design, or a related technical field.
• Experience: 3+ years of detailing/drafting experience in event production, exhibition stand fabrication, scenic/theatrical construction, steel detailing, or a similar workshop-based manufacturing environment.
• Software Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and SketchUp; working knowledge of Tekla Structures, Solidworks, Rhino, or 3ds Max is an advantage.
• Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of carpentry, metalwork, rigging, and structural connections, along with material properties and fabrication tolerances.
• Standards Awareness: Familiarity with structural safety margins, load calculations, and relevant Saudi/international codes applicable to temporary event structures.
• Soft Skills: High attention to detail, strong spatial visualization, ability to work under pressure against tight

production deadlines, and clear communication with both design and shop-floor teams.

Typical Working Conditions

• Environment: Must be able to work in a workshop environment, which may include loud noise, dust, and heat, with some on-site installation work.
• Hours: May require working evenings, weekends, and holidays to meet event deadlines.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle tight deadlines and to work on site, which may include lifting, standing for long periods, and working in varied conditions.