Architectural Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architectural Product Designer / Estimator

Company: Etnyre International (Hendrick Manufacturing)

Location: Carbondale, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: OTHER

Category: Engineering / Manufacturing / Construction / Art & Design

Date Posted: May 22, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years inferred)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This hybrid remote role focuses on the critical intersection of architectural design and manufacturing, transforming conceptual blueprints into tangible, fabricated products.

• Responsibilities include performing detailed takeoffs, preparing accurate project quotations, and estimating material and time requirements using established methodologies and Excel.

• The role requires close collaboration with Architects, customers, and internal departments (Production, Engineering, Sales) to refine designs and ensure project success from concept to completion.

• Key to this position is the ability to coordinate complex projects, solicit competitive vendor and subcontractor quotes, and proactively resolve issues to meet customer needs and maintain project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Architectural Product Designer / Estimator" and the description emphasize a dual focus on design conceptualization and cost estimation, which is crucial for understanding the blend of creative and analytical skills required. The "Hybrid Remote" designation suggests a need for strong self-management and communication, with an expectation of on-site presence for key collaborative activities. The mention of "Hendrick Manufacturing" as the specific operational location within Etnyre International provides context for the manufacturing environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Interpret and analyze complex architectural blueprints, shop drawings, and technical specifications to understand project scope and requirements.

• Conduct detailed takeoffs to quantify materials, labor, and other project components accurately.

• Prepare comprehensive and precise project quotations, ensuring competitive pricing and profitability.

• Estimate project timelines and material needs utilizing established methods and advanced Excel formulas.

• Collaborate directly with Architects to develop and refine product designs, ensuring alignment with architectural intent and technical feasibility.

• Engage with customers to clarify design requirements and incorporate feedback into the final product specifications.

• Lead and facilitate cross-functional project coordination, liaising between Production, Engineering, Sales, external representatives, and subcontractors.

• Solicit, evaluate, and negotiate quotes from vendors and subcontractors to secure cost-effective solutions and competitive pricing.

• Proactively identify and anticipate customer needs, addressing potential issues and ensuring client satisfaction.

• Exercise sound professional judgment and decision-making within established company policies and guidelines, working autonomously.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a project management and client-facing aspect, going beyond typical design or estimating roles. The emphasis on "transforming architectural intent into real-world products" and "bringing them to life" signifies a hands-on involvement in the product realization process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Proven experience in a manufacturing environment, with a strong emphasis on sheet metal fabrication processes.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex architectural blueprints and create accurate material takeoffs.

Required Skills:

• Architectural Blueprint Reading: Ability to meticulously interpret architectural drawings, shop drawings, and technical specifications.

• Project Estimation & Takeoffs: Proficiency in performing detailed quantity takeoffs and preparing accurate project quotations.

• Sheet Metal Fabrication Processes: Strong knowledge of fabrication techniques, materials, and industry standards.

• Computer Proficiency: Excellent computer skills, with a specific emphasis on advanced Microsoft Excel proficiency for calculations and data management.

• Mathematical Computation: Solid mathematical computation skills essential for accurate estimation and analysis.

• Interpersonal & Presentation Skills: Strong ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with internal teams, architects, and customers.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Ability to effectively communicate and coordinate with multiple organizational levels and departments.

• Independent Work Ethic: Proven ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and make effective decisions within policy guidelines.

Preferred Skills:

• Construction Background: Experience in commercial construction or a related construction field.

• Hands-on Fabrication Experience: Practical, hands-on experience with sheet metal fabrication equipment (e.g., shears, brakes, CNC punch, lasers, welders).

• Design Development: Experience in developing designs from concept through to finished product.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Preferred Qualifications" suggest that candidates with direct, hands-on experience in metal fabrication and a construction context will have a distinct advantage, indicating a preference for practical, applied knowledge over purely theoretical understanding.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Transformation Case Studies: Showcase projects where architectural concepts were translated into manufacturable product designs, detailing the process from initial interpretation to final specification.

• Takeoff & Estimation Accuracy: Provide examples demonstrating the accuracy and thoroughness of your takeoff and estimation processes, ideally with evidence of cost savings or competitive wins attributed to your work.

• Project Coordination Examples: Illustrate your ability to manage and coordinate complex projects involving multiple stakeholders (e.g., architects, internal teams, vendors, subcontractors), highlighting successful outcomes.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Include examples of how you have proactively identified and resolved design or fabrication challenges, demonstrating sound judgment and technical problem-solving skills.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Document your approach to designing and optimizing workflows for architectural product development and estimation, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy.

• Systematic Estimation Methods: Detail the systematic methods and tools (especially Excel-based formulas) you employ for estimating time, materials, and costs, ensuring a repeatable and reliable process.

• Collaboration & Communication Protocols: Outline your established protocols for collaborating with architects, customers, and internal departments, ensuring clear communication and alignment throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio showcasing a blend of design interpretation, meticulous estimation, and effective cross-functional project management will be critical. Demonstrating a structured approach to estimation, particularly with Excel, and successful collaboration with diverse stakeholders will be key differentiators.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for an Architectural Product Designer / Estimator in Carbondale, PA, with 2-5 years of experience, typically falls between $55,000 - $75,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in manufacturing and construction estimation, considering the cost of living in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Factors such as specific company compensation strategies, the candidate's precise experience level, and performance during interviews can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with company matching contributions.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and skill enhancement relevant to fabrication and design.

• Hybrid Work Arrangement: Flexibility to balance remote work with on-site collaboration.

• Employee Assistance Program: Support services for personal and professional well-being.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, estimated at 40 hours per week. The hybrid nature of the role allows for some flexibility in scheduling, with an expectation of availability during core business hours for team collaboration and client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on aggregated data for similar mid-level engineering and operations support roles in the Pennsylvania region. Specific benefits and exact working hours should be confirmed with Etnyre International.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Specialty Products, likely metal fabrication given the role's focus)

Company Size: Etnyre International is a medium-sized enterprise. The Hendrick Manufacturing division likely operates as a distinct unit within this larger structure. This size suggests a balance between established processes and the ability to implement changes more readily than in very large corporations.

Founded: Etnyre International was founded in 1855, indicating a long-standing history and deep-rooted expertise in its operational areas. Hendrick Manufacturing has a significant history as well, contributing to a culture that likely values tradition, craftsmanship, and long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Architectural Product Designer / Estimator will likely be part of the Engineering or Estimating department within the Hendrick Manufacturing division.

• This role requires close collaboration with Sales for client needs and quotation approvals, Production for fabrication feasibility and scheduling, and external partners like Architects, vendors, and subcontractors.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design & Estimation: The role emphasizes the use of technical specifications, blueprints, and Excel-based formulas for precise calculations and estimations.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: A core methodology involves working closely with architects and internal teams to develop innovative solutions and resolve technical challenges.

• Process Optimization: The team likely strives for continuous improvement in fabrication processes, estimation accuracy, and project delivery timelines to maintain a competitive edge.

Company Website: www.etnyre.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history suggests a culture that values experience, reliability, and quality. The specific operations within Hendrick Manufacturing likely focus on custom fabrication, requiring a blend of engineering precision and adaptable problem-solving.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level contributor, bridging the gap between junior design/estimation and senior project leadership. It requires a solid foundation of technical knowledge and the ability to manage project elements independently.

Reporting Structure: Typically, this role would report to an Engineering Manager, Sales Manager, or a dedicated Estimating Lead. There will be significant cross-functional reporting and collaboration with Sales, Production, and Engineering departments.

Operations Impact: The Architectural Product Designer / Estimator directly impacts revenue by ensuring accurate and competitive bids that win projects. They also influence project profitability through efficient material and labor estimation, and contribute to client satisfaction and retention by translating architectural visions into successful manufactured products.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Estimator/Project Manager: Advancement to roles with greater responsibility for managing larger, more complex projects or overseeing the estimating team.

• Design Engineering Specialist: Specialization in specific fabrication techniques or product lines, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Sales Engineering/Account Management: Transition into roles that leverage technical expertise to support sales efforts and manage key client relationships.

• Process Improvement Lead: Opportunity to drive efficiency initiatives within the estimating or fabrication processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within manufacturing operations, particularly for individuals who excel in technical problem-solving and project coordination, with potential to move into leadership or specialized technical roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a Hybrid Remote position, meaning a blend of remote work and on-site presence at the Hendrick Manufacturing facility in Carbondale, PA. The on-site component is crucial for direct collaboration with production, engineering teams, and for hands-on understanding of fabrication processes.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is 1 Seventh Avenue, Carbondale, PA 18407. Access to the facility will be necessary for team meetings, project reviews, and site-specific discussions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model necessitates effective use of virtual collaboration tools for remote days and direct, in-person interaction on-site. Expect a dynamic environment where ideas are shared across departments.

• Technical Tools: Access to CAD software (likely for viewing and potentially minor edits), advanced Excel, and potentially specialized estimating software will be standard. The physical manufacturing floor provides real-world context for design and fabrication.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct engagement with production floor personnel, engineers, sales representatives, and architects, fostering a holistic understanding of the product lifecycle.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, with an estimated 40 hours per week. The hybrid arrangement offers some flexibility, but core business hours will be essential for effective communication and collaboration with teams and clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature requires candidates to be comfortable with both independent remote work and active on-site collaboration, emphasizing the importance of strong communication and self-discipline.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve a detailed discussion of your experience with architectural blueprints, takeoffs, estimation methods (especially Excel), and sheet metal fabrication processes. You may be asked to walk through a past project.

• Portfolio Review: Be prepared to present specific examples from your portfolio, detailing your role, the challenges faced, your solutions, and the quantifiable results (e.g., accuracy of estimates, project wins).

• Cross-Functional/Hiring Manager Interview: This interview will focus on your collaboration skills, problem-solving approach, understanding of the company's culture, and how you would fit into the team. Behavioral questions are common here.

• Final Interview (if applicable): May involve senior leadership or a final assessment of cultural fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Your Impact: For each project, highlight the business impact – e.g., "Reduced material waste by X% through optimized design," or "Secured Y% of bids submitted due to accurate and competitive pricing."

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your step-by-step process for interpreting drawings, performing takeoffs, developing estimates, and collaborating with stakeholders. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Excel Proficiency: Be ready to briefly explain or demonstrate complex Excel functions or custom formulas you've developed for estimation or data analysis.

• Problem-Solution-Result (PSR) Format: Structure your case studies using this method: describe the Problem (e.g., complex architectural drawing), your Solution (your design/estimation process), and the Result (project success, cost savings, client satisfaction).

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience directly relevant to sheet metal fabrication, architectural design interpretation, and hybrid/remote work environments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Estimation Exercise: You might be given a simplified set of architectural drawings and asked to perform a basic takeoff or estimate. Focus on your methodology and assumptions.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like: "How would you handle a discrepancy between architectural plans and customer requests?" or "Describe a time you had to negotiate with a subcontractor for better pricing."

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential estimation exercises indicates a practical, results-oriented hiring process. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their technical skills and problem-solving abilities with concrete examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency is required for takeoffs, cost calculations, time estimations, and potentially creating custom formulas or templates.

• CAD Software (Viewer/Basic Editing): Likely SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar, for reading and interpreting architectural blueprints and shop drawings.

• Project Management Software: Potentially used for tracking project progress, deadlines, and communication (e.g., Asana, Jira, or proprietary systems).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Reporting Tools: For tracking bid success rates, project profitability, and material costs.

• Data Analysis: Ability to analyze estimation data to identify trends, improve accuracy, and forecast material needs.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System: Likely used by Sales to manage customer interactions and project pipelines, requiring collaboration and data sharing.

• ERP System: May be involved in material procurement, production scheduling, and financial tracking.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of Excel is paramount. Familiarity with CAD software for viewing and understanding technical drawings is essential. Experience with any project management or ERP/CRM systems common in manufacturing environments would be beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Accuracy: A commitment to meticulous detail in interpreting designs and performing calculations to ensure product quality and accurate costing.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively across departments (Sales, Production, Engineering) and with external stakeholders to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Problem-Solving: Encouraging creative solutions to design challenges and finding efficient ways to meet customer requirements within fabrication capabilities.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting customer needs, ensuring satisfaction through quality products and responsive service.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all interactions, from client proposals to internal coordination.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where information flows freely between design, sales, and production. Regular meetings and shared project platforms are likely.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: An environment where feedback is encouraged to improve designs, processes, and project outcomes.

• Shared Goal Orientation: A focus on collectively achieving project success, profitability, and customer satisfaction, rather than operating in silos.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and focus on custom fabrication suggest a culture valuing craftsmanship, reliability, and a strong sense of shared purpose among its teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Intent with Manufacturing Constraints: Translating complex architectural visions into feasible and cost-effective manufactured products often requires creative problem-solving and compromise.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Coordinating effectively with diverse groups (architects, customers, internal teams, vendors) each with their own priorities and timelines.

• Accuracy in Rapid Estimation: The need to produce accurate takeoffs and quotations quickly in a fast-paced environment.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in fabrication equipment, materials, and design software.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Fabrication Techniques: Deepening knowledge of specialized sheet metal processes, CNC programming, welding, etc.

• Cost Engineering & Financial Analysis: Developing skills in more advanced financial modeling, ROI analysis, and profitability management for projects.

• Project Management Certifications: Pursuing certifications like PMP to enhance project leadership capabilities.

• Software Proficiency: Expanding expertise in CAD, BIM, or specialized estimating software.

• Industry Trends: Staying informed about new materials, architectural trends, and sustainable design practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges and develop a comprehensive understanding of the manufacturing lifecycle, from initial concept to final product delivery.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for interpreting a complex architectural blueprint to develop an accurate takeoff and quotation. What are the critical elements you focus on?"

  • Preparation: Be ready to detail your methodical approach, highlighting specific checks for dimensions, materials, tolerances, and finishes. Discuss how you identify potential ambiguities or conflicts.

• "Walk me through a project where you had to balance a client's or architect's design vision with manufacturing capabilities and cost constraints. What was the outcome?"

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Focus on your problem-solving skills, communication strategies, and ability to find mutually agreeable solutions.

• "How do you leverage Microsoft Excel for project estimation and data analysis? Can you provide an example of a complex formula or model you've developed?"

  • Preparation: Be prepared to discuss specific Excel functions (e.g., VLOOKUP, INDEX/MATCH, SUMIFS, Pivot Tables) and how you've used them to streamline calculations, track costs, or analyze project data.

• "How do you ensure accuracy and efficiency when working under tight deadlines for project quotations?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Etnyre International and the Hendrick Manufacturing division specifically?"

  • Preparation: Research the company's history, products, and values. Connect your skills and career aspirations to their mission and the specific nature of their fabrication work.

• "How do you approach collaboration with different departments like Sales, Production, and Engineering?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize your communication style, ability to understand different perspectives, and commitment to team objectives. Highlight past experiences of successful cross-functional work.

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid remote environment. What strategies do you use to stay productive and connected?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your skills in design interpretation, estimation accuracy, and project coordination. Quantify results wherever possible.

• Visual Aids: Use clear screenshots of blueprints, your takeoff sheets, and final designs. If possible, include photos of the finished product.

• Concise Storytelling: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role and actions, and the positive outcome.

• Demonstrate Excel Skills: Be ready to briefly show a relevant Excel model or formula you used, explaining its function and benefit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, focusing on practical application of skills. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their technical expertise, problem-solving capabilities, and collaborative spirit with concrete evidence.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Architectural Product Designer / Estimator position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Paycom.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description such as "architectural blueprints," "takeoffs," "quotations," "sheet metal fabrication," "Excel proficiency," and "project coordination." Use bullet points to showcase quantifiable achievements.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather 2-3 strong case studies demonstrating your ability to interpret architectural drawings, perform accurate takeoffs and estimations, and manage projects. Ensure these examples highlight your problem-solving skills and impact.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on the STAR method for behavioral questions and being ready to discuss your technical processes in detail.

• Research Etnyre International: Understand the company's history, its products (especially within Hendrick Manufacturing), and its market position. This will help you articulate your interest and cultural fit during the interview.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.