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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Tekla Steel Detailer

💰 $65,000 - $105,000+

EngineeringConstructionCADBIMSteel DetailingDesign

🎯 Role Definition

A Tekla Steel Detailer is a specialized technical professional who serves as a critical link between structural engineering design and the physical fabrication and erection of steel structures. Using advanced 3D modeling software, primarily Tekla Structures, this individual translates complex engineering plans, drawings, and specifications into precise, detailed, and actionable models. From these models, they generate the essential shop drawings for fabricators and erection plans for field crews. The accuracy and clarity of their work are paramount to project success, ensuring structural integrity, preventing costly errors, minimizing material waste, and facilitating a safe and efficient construction process. This role demands a unique blend of technical software proficiency, an in-depth understanding of steel construction principles, and meticulous attention to detail.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Junior Steel Detailer / Drafter
  • Structural Engineering Technician
  • CAD Operator (with a focus on structures)

Advancement To:

  • Senior Tekla Steel Detailer / Team Lead
  • Steel Detail Checker
  • Detailing Project Manager / BIM Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

  • BIM Modeler (specializing in other disciplines like concrete or MEP)
  • Structural Steel Estimator
  • Project Engineer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Develop highly detailed and accurate 3D structural steel models using Tekla Structures based on engineering drawings, specifications, and architectural plans.
  • Generate comprehensive and clear fabrication drawings, including assembly drawings, single-part (gather) sheets, and Bills of Material (BOMs).
  • Create precise erection drawings and plans, complete with detailed section and connection information, to guide field crews during the installation process.
  • Meticulously review and interpret all contract documents, including structural designs, architectural drawings, and project specifications, to ensure model compliance.
  • Proactively identify and resolve discrepancies, ambiguities, or missing information between various design documents by preparing and issuing formal Requests for Information (RFIs).
  • Skillfully incorporate and meticulously track design changes resulting from contract addendums, RFI responses, and formal change orders into the 3D model and associated drawings.
  • Generate and verify numerical control (NC1, DXF, KSS) files and other data outputs from the Tekla model for use in automated shop fabrication equipment.
  • Perform thorough self-checks on models and drawings to guarantee accuracy, completeness, and adherence to all project standards before formal review.
  • Collaborate effectively with a wide range of project stakeholders, including structural engineers, architects, project managers, and fabrication shop personnel, to ensure seamless project flow.
  • Participate actively in project coordination meetings, leveraging the 3D model to identify and resolve clashes with other trades like mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP).
  • Model complex structural and miscellaneous steel elements with precision, including intricate connection details, stairs, handrails, ladders, and trusses.
  • Manage and maintain the integrity of the project model throughout its lifecycle, ensuring it remains the single source of truth for all steel components.
  • Prepare and submit detailed drawing packages for formal approval by the engineering and architectural teams, managing revisions and resubmittals as required.
  • Provide essential technical support and clarification to the fabrication shop and field erection teams to resolve issues that may arise during construction.
  • Adhere strictly to both industry-standard detailing practices (AISC, CISC) and established company-specific standards for modeling and drawing presentation.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist in the development and maintenance of company-specific Tekla custom components, connections, and drawing templates to improve efficiency and standardization.
  • Contribute to project scheduling by providing accurate estimates for detailing timelines and flagging potential delays to the project management team.
  • Support the checking process by reviewing the work of junior detailers or peers, providing constructive feedback to ensure quality and consistency across the team.
  • Manage project-related documentation and file structures in a logical and organized manner, ensuring all project data is easily accessible and version-controlled.
  • Continuously seek opportunities to enhance personal skills and stay current with the latest versions of Tekla Structures and emerging trends in BIM technology.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Expert Proficiency in Tekla Structures: Demonstrable, hands-on expertise in 3D modeling, drawing creation, and managing models for structural and miscellaneous steel projects.
  • Deep Knowledge of Steel Standards: A strong working knowledge of industry standards and codes, particularly from the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC).
  • Blueprint and Specification Interpretation: The ability to expertly read, analyze, and interpret complex structural and architectural drawings and technical specifications.
  • Understanding of Fabrication/Erection: A solid grasp of the entire steel lifecycle, from shop fabrication processes (cutting, drilling, welding) to field erection and installation logistics.
  • 2D CAD Software Fluency: Proficiency with AutoCAD for reviewing, importing, and exporting 2D data as needed.
  • BIM Coordination Experience: Familiarity with using and navigating BIM models in platforms like Trimble Connect or Autodesk Navisworks for clash detection and coordination.
  • Microsoft Office Suite: Competency in using tools like Excel for managing BOMs and lists, and Outlook for professional communication.
  • Connection Detailing: Proven ability to model and detail a wide variety of standard and non-standard steel connections accurately.

Soft Skills

  • Meticulous Attention to Detail: An exceptional ability to spot minute errors, inconsistencies, or discrepancies in drawings and models.
  • Systematic Problem-Solving: The capacity to logically analyze complex geometric and structural challenges and develop effective solutions.
  • Clear and Concise Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for collaborating with internal teams and external partners via RFIs and meetings.
  • Time Management & Organization: The ability to prioritize tasks, manage workload across multiple projects, and consistently meet tight deadlines.
  • Proactive & Self-Motivated: A strong work ethic and the initiative to work independently with minimal supervision while contributing positively to a team environment.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • A two-year technical diploma or certificate in a relevant discipline, or a demonstrated equivalent combination of education and direct steel detailing experience.

Preferred Education:

  • Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Architectural Technology or Building Science
  • Engineering Design and Drafting Technology
  • Structural or Civil Engineering Technology

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 3-10 years of progressive, dedicated experience in structural steel detailing using Tekla Structures.

Preferred:

  • Experience working on large-scale or complex commercial, industrial, or institutional projects is highly valued. A portfolio demonstrating a range of completed projects is a significant asset.
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