Welcome to First Fence - where security meets innovation!
As industry pioneers in Security and Temporary Fencing, we're all about unbeatable service and competitive prices. Our dedicated team goes above and beyond to exceed customer expectations.
Salary: £42,000 per annum
Hours: 42.5 hours per week, Monday-Friday
Location: Swadlincote, Derbyshire, DE11 8EA
Why First Fence?
- Same-day delivery across the UK
- Six strategic locations, including our National Distribution Centre
- Extraordinary growth since 2010
- ️ Industry innovators setting new standards
Ready for an exciting journey in a thriving company? Join First Fence, where we're not just securing spaces; we're securing the future. ️ #FirstFence #SecurityInnovation #JoinOurTeam
We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Senior Drawing Engineer to lead our design and drafting operations. In this role, you will be responsible for translating architectural concepts, site surveys, and structural requirements into precise, production-ready manufacturing and installation drawings.
You will work across a diverse product line—ranging from high-security perimeter fencing, acoustic barriers and automated gate systems. As a senior member of the team, you will bridge the gap between initial client consultation, structural engineering compliance, and shop-floor fabrication.
Key Responsibilities
1. Design & Drafting
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Create comprehensive 2D fabrication drawings, component details, and 3D models using CAD software (AutoDesk Inventor, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD).
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Develop detailed site layouts, elevation drawings, and installation guides for field crews and project managers.
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Incorporate structural engineering calculations into final fence and gate designs.
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Generate accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs) and cutting lists to optimise material utilisation and minimise scrap on the shop floor.
2. Leadership & Process Optimisation
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Establish, maintain, and enforce drafting standards, layering conventions, and drawing revision controls.
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Mentor and review the work of junior drafters/designers to ensure 100% accuracy before production release.
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Build and maintain a standardised CAD part library for modular fencing components (posts, brackets, pales, panels, and hardware) to speed up future lead times.
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Collaborate with production teams to troubleshoot manufacturing bottlenecks and implement Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles.
3. Client & Project Collaboration
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Review architectural plans, civil engineering site layouts, and tender specifications to identify potential design constraints.
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Interface with clients, suppliers and manufacturing to resolve design discrepancies and provide technical value-engineering suggestions.
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Assist the sales team by providing preliminary drawings or material take-offs for complex, custom bids.
Qualifications & Skills
Required Experience
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Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Design, or equivalent technical experience/certifications.
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Experience: 3+ years of experience in steel fabrication, architectural metalwork, or a closely related manufacturing sector (direct fencing or gate industry experience is highly desirable).
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Software Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in 3D modelling (SolidWorks, Inventor) and 2D drafting (AutoCAD). Experience with structural analysis software is a major plus.
Technical & Core Competencies
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Manufacturing Knowledge: Deep understanding of metal fabrication techniques (laser cutting, welding, punching, bending, hot-dip galvanizing, and powder coating).
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Mechanical Aptitude: Strong grasp of moving parts, hinges, latch mechanisms, and cantilever gate geometry.
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Precision & Detail: Exceptional spatial reasoning skills with strict adherence to tolerances, clearances, and geometric dimensioning.
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Communication: Ability to clearly explain technical design choices to non-technical stakeholders, clients, and installers.
Join Us for a Career Beyond Ordinary!
Discover a workplace that values your well-being and success. At First Fence, we're not just offering a job – we're offering a lifestyle!
✨ Benefits Snapshot:
️ Cycle to Work Scheme
Discounts and Cash Back Benefits Platform
Holistic Wellbeing Platform
24/7 Employee Assist Programme
33 Days Annual Leave (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
️ Employee Product Discounts
Recognition Rewards
Ready for a career that cares about YOU? Apply now and let's redefine success together! #JoinTheTeam #CareerGrowth #WellnessMatters #FirstFence
At First Fence, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We believe in the principles of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), and we promote a culture that celebrates individual differences and embraces a wide range of perspectives. We firmly stand against any form of discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our recruitment process is fair and unbiased, ensuring that all applicants are evaluated solely on their qualifications, skills, and experience. We strive to provide equal opportunities for career growth and development, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply. By joining our team, you will become part of a vibrant and inclusive community where your unique contributions are valued, and where diversity is not only respected but celebrated.
