Title: Associate Truss Designer
Classification: Draw + Commission
Pay Range: $36,000 to $150,000
Location: Santa Maria, CA
Reports To: COO

About the Company:

For 100 years and four generations of Hayward family leadership, Hayward Lumber has been committed to meeting and exceeding the needs of builders. Beyond full-service lumberyards, we offer window, door and cabinet design centers, pro-oriented hardware stores, and innovative building solutions designed to save time and money. Hayward Lumber is a family-oriented company that treats every employee as such. Our average tenure companywide is over 10 years and we pride ourselves in creating an environment in which you can learn, grow, and prosper. Hayward Lumber provides a competitive compensation structure, as well as a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401K, and paid time off including vacation, holiday, and sick leave. Learn more at will be the most dependable supplier of products, services and solutions to the construction market, as it has been since 1919.

Position Summary:

The Associate Truss Designer plays a key support role within our Design & Estimating team by assisting in the preparation of accurate and optimized layouts for residential roof and floor truss systems. This entry-level position is ideal for a detail-oriented individual with strong technical skills, an interest in structural design, and a collaborative mindset. Working closely with Lead Designers, Estimators, and Production teams, the Associate Truss Designer helps ensure each project is accurately designed, efficiently produced, and exceeds customer expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support Lead Designers by creating layouts and preliminary designs for residential roof and floor truss systems using specialized design software.
• Interpret architectural plans, construction drawings, and specifications to ensure design accuracy and code compliance.
• Communicate proactively with Designers, Estimators, and external stakeholders to clarify project requirements, resolve discrepancies, and confirm changes.
• Generate material lists and pricing estimates once truss systems are engineered, ensuring timely and accurate customer proposals.
• Assist in reviewing completed designs prior to release to production, verifying accuracy and completeness of design and material takeoffs.
• Maintain well-organized records of production drawings and project files for future reference and quality control.
• Coordinate with the Production Manager to improve manufacturing standards and ensure buildable, cost-effective designs.
• Alert the Production Manager and Lumber Buyer to projects requiring special materials or large-volume orders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design-related issues by identifying root causes and recommending effective solutions.
• Provide occasional job-site support or customer consultation as needed.
• Demonstrate professionalism in all internal and external communications; maintain high standards of customer service, accuracy, and responsiveness.
• Utilize CAD and component engineering software daily; must be comfortable working on-screen for extended periods.

Requirements

• Experience with CAD or structural design software preferred.
• Previous experience in truss design, drafting, or construction is a plus.
• Strong math, computer, and organizational skills required.
• Ability to read and interpret blueprints and construction documents.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and eager to learn.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life insurance
• 401K
• Paid time off including vacation, holiday, and sick leave.
• No weekends