Technical Publications and Illustration Lead

Butterfly Staffing is supporting a global engineering and equipment manufacturer in the search for a Technical Publications and Illustration Lead. This role combines hands-on technical illustration with leadership responsibilities across documentation development, content accuracy, and visual communication. You will work closely with engineering, product support, suppliers, and internal teams to produce high-quality technical manuals, service bulletins, illustrated parts catalogs, and accurate 3D-based visuals that support both product usability and aftermarket operations. This is a senior-level, engineering-adjacent position ideal for someone who excels at both technical illustration and supervising documentation workflows in a heavy-equipment OEM environment. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Team Support Guide and mentor writers and illustrators to ensure high-quality, timely deliverables. Provide coaching in technical illustration and visual communication. Support onboarding and training on tools, standards, CMS, and PLM workflows. Promote knowledge sharing and continuous skill development. Technical Illustration & Engineering Support Create and revise detailed technical illustrations, including: Exploded views Assembly diagrams Schematics Cutaways Interpret engineering drawings and CAD models to develop accurate visuals. Ensure illustrations meet industry standards for print and digital formats. Collaborate with engineering and suppliers on updates tied to design revisions. Assist service teams by producing clear visuals for parts identification and ordering. Documentation Development Plan, assign, and track documentation projects aligned with product release schedules. Review and approve technical content for clarity, accuracy, and compliance. Maintain and enhance documentation templates, processes, and tools. Manage workflows using CMS and PLM systems to support scalable output. Quality, Compliance & Continuous Improvement Participate in audits and ensure compliance with regulatory and customer expectations. Identify automation opportunities and process improvements for illustration and documentation development. Support cost-out initiatives by improving design efficiency and visual clarity. Required Skills & Experience Bachelor’s degree in engineering, technical communications, or related field. 3–6 years of relevant experience in engineering, manufacturing, or technical publications. At least 2 years in a senior, lead, or supervisory role. Strong ability to interpret engineering drawings, BOMs, and schematics. 3D CAD proficiency is required (PTC Creo and IsoDraw highly preferred). Experience with PLM/ERP/CMS systems (Infor LN experience is a plus). Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines. Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills. Understanding of Agile or Scrum methodologies preferred. Prior OEM or heavy-equipment manufacturing experience strongly preferred. General & Core Competencies Team-oriented with strong integrity and customer focus. Highly detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills. Safety-aware and adaptable to changing priorities. Strong initiative, self-development mindset, and commitment to quality. Ability to integrate new technologies, methods, and tooling. Physical & Additional Requirements Ability to sit, stand, walk, kneel, climb, and lift up to 50 lbs as needed. Moderate manufacturing environment exposure (mechanical parts, airborne particles). Valid driver’s license and passport. Ability to obtain and maintain MSHA certification. Up to 20% domestic and international travel.