Senior Project Designer - Cunningham Recreation

Summary

The Senior / Special Projects Designer is a key member of the design team responsible for creating innovative, compliant, and high-quality play environments and products from concept through final production. This role combines advanced product design expertise with creative development of custom play spaces and interactive elements.

The ideal candidate is self-driven, highly creative, and collaborative, with the ability to design complex products and environments while working closely with sales teams, customers, and cross-functional partners. This individual will lead and support the research, development, and implementation of unique and engaging play experiences that meet and exceed client expectations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Design complex products and custom play environments from concept through final production, ensuring accuracy, feasibility, and compliance.
2. Collaborate directly with sales representatives, customers, and cross-functional teams to develop creative, innovative, and client-focused solutions.
3. Lead and assist in the research, development, and implementation of new play spaces, interactive elements, and product concepts.
4. Prepare and present designs, layouts, renderings, and cost estimates using advanced design software tools.
5. Create 2D layouts, 3D models, CAD blocks, and production-ready drawings for manufacturing and presentation purposes.
6. Develop designs using software such as Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, and other visualization tools.
7. Interpret and apply construction drawings, topographic maps, and site documentation for accurate design execution.
8. Ensure all designs meet safety, accessibility, and compliance standards (CPSC, ASTM, and company best practices).
9. Maintain knowledge of product lines, materials, and manufacturing constraints to support efficient and effective design solutions.
10. Participate in playground installations, prototyping, and model development to enhance product knowledge and design quality.
11. Manage or support project organization, timelines, and deliverables from initial concept through completion.
12. Provide guidance, mentorship, and training to junior designers and team members.
13. Produce high-quality designs within tight timelines in a fast-paced environment.
14. Other duties may be assigned by Manager or Supervisor.

Competencies

• Analytical Decision-Making
• Communication
• Learning & Development
• Planning & Organizing
• Professionalism & Integrity
• Risk-Taking/Creative Thinking
• Teamwork & Relationship-Building
• Results Orientation

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor's degree in industrial design or related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5-10+ years of experience in product design, playground design, or public space design
• Experience designing from concept through fabrication and installation
• Strong knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and assembly methods
• CPSI certification preferred

Travel

Minimal to moderate travel may be required, including visits to project sites, manufacturing facilities, and playground installations.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, and related design software
• Experience creating 2D and 3D models, renderings, and production drawings
• Ability to produce presentations, reports, and visual design deliverables
• Familiarity with additional tools such as KeyShot, ZBrush, or SolidWorks is a plus

• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability
• Ability to clearly communicate ideas visually and verbally
• Hands-on prototyping or fabrication experience preferred
• Ability to quickly learn and apply new software and tools

Computer Skills

To perform this job successfully, one must be proficient in using all available software used in the Gametime development process. This includes, but is not limited to, Autodesk Inventor, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite, Keyshot, and Zbrush (if applicable).

PlayCore is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.