About the CAD Designer Position

The CAD Designer will work under general supervision of a Professional Engineer primarily in the Engineering Section to assist the Watershed Conservation Resource Center (WCRC) to achieve its mission of protecting, conserving and restoring natural resources using a watershed approach. The CAD Designer position is a permanent, full-time, salaried position.

About Watershed Conservation Resource Center

The WCRC is a nonprofit organization in Fayetteville, Arkansas that strives to protect, conserve and restore natural resources by utilizing the watershed approach, environmental outreach and providing planning and technical assistance to landowners, communities and government. For 20 years, the WCRC has been committed to making a difference through conservation and restoration, specializing in ecological restoration with focus on streams and riparian areas. The WCRC has successfully restored over 40,000 feet of river and stream banks, with projects ranging from small urban streams to large rivers in Northwest Arkansas. Learn more at watershedconservation.org. 

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Utilize CAD and GIS software to prepare civil engineering construction drawings and plan sets related to stream restoration, riparian, and watershed assessment projects
• Incorporate various types of data to develop and analyze  alignments, profiles, corridors, and cross sections using CAD software tools.
• Evaluate and process LiDAR point cloud data to create and analyze 3D surfaces
• Utilize 3D surfaces to complete grading plans, earthwork and volume calculations
• Utilize CAD to develop restoration designs, typical cross section and structure details
• Prepare stream and watershed maps and exhibits
• Assist with field surveying and other hydrologic and geomorphologic data collection; hydrologic, hydraulic, geomorphic, and geospatial analyses

Minimum Qualifications, Knowledge, and Skills

• Associate’s degree in computer-aided design (CAD), engineering, or related technical or scientific field
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in computer-aided design (CAD), engineering, or related technical or scientific field
• Experience using Autodesk AutoCAD Civil3D, LiDAR point cloud software (e.g., Trimble Business Center, LP360, Pix4D), ESRI ArcGIS/ArcMap and ArcPRO, and Microsoft Office products
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, topographical maps, and construction plans

Preferred Qualifications, Knowledge, and Skills

• Background and knowledge in one or more of the following areas:
  • Stream restoration practices utilizing natural channel design approach and Rosgen stream classification system
  • GIS analysis of natural resources data and map production
  • Erosion control Best Management Practices
  • Experience related to topographic survey techniques and equipment (e.g., GPS receiver/data collector, laser level, total station)

Physical Demands and Work Environment

This position requires working full days sitting or standing. Occasional field work outdoors with exposure to hot and humid conditions, rugged terrain, swift moving water, loud heavy machinery, ticks and other biting insects, and wildlife will be required. Occasional evening and weekend work hours, as well as out of town travel may be required.

Expected Salary  and Benefits

$50,000 to $100,000 annually, commensurate with experience. The WCRC offers a competitive benefits package including:

• Paid leave time
• Matching retirement contributions
• Paid employee health, dental, and vision insurance

About Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas

Northwest Arkansas is one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the United States. Located in the breathtaking Ozark Mountains, the region is home to excellent restaurants, museums, and outdoor recreation opportunities, including 500+ miles of mountain biking trails. Fayetteville, one of the four largest cities in the region and home to the University of Arkansas, is frequently ranked in the top 10 of U.S. News & World Report’s annual “Best Places to Live” list.

Watershed Conservation Resource Center (WCRC) is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and internships.