Architectural Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architectural Product Designer / Estimator

Company: Hendrick Manufacturing

Location: Carbondale, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Other (Engineering/Manufacturing Focus)

Category: Manufacturing Operations / Product Design & Estimation

Date Posted: May 22, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on the intricate process of translating architectural visions into tangible manufactured products, requiring a deep understanding of both design and fabrication.

• Key responsibilities include performing detailed material takeoffs and generating accurate project quotations, a critical function within revenue operations and GTM strategy.

• The position demands close collaboration with architects, customers, and internal teams to refine designs, ensure feasibility, and manage projects from conception through to completion.

• Successful candidates will leverage strong technical, mathematical, and communication skills to coordinate complex projects and drive competitive pricing through vendor and subcontractor engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Architectural Product Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills heavily lean into estimation, project management, and cross-functional coordination within a manufacturing context, aligning it closely with operational roles that bridge design and production for GTM success. The "OTHER" employment type suggests it might not fit neatly into standard engineering or design classifications, highlighting its unique blend of operations and technical design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Architectural Interpretation & Design Translation: Read and interpret complex architectural blueprints, shop drawings, and technical specifications to understand project requirements and design intent.

• Project Estimation & Quotation Generation: Conduct detailed material takeoffs and prepare precise, accurate project quotations, ensuring all components and labor costs are accounted for.

• Cost & Time Analysis: Estimate project timelines and material requirements using established methodologies and Excel-based formulas, optimizing for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Design Collaboration & Refinement: Work directly with architects and customers to develop and refine product designs from initial concept through to final approved product, ensuring alignment with architectural plans and client needs.

• Cross-Functional Project Leadership: Lead and coordinate project execution across internal departments including Production, Engineering, and Sales, as well as external stakeholders such as outside representatives and subcontractors.

• Vendor & Subcontractor Management: Solicit and qualify quotes from vendors and subcontractors to secure competitive pricing and reliable supply chain partnerships.

• Proactive Issue Resolution: Anticipate customer needs and proactively identify and resolve potential issues or challenges throughout the project lifecycle.

• Independent Decision-Making: Exercise sound judgment and decision-making within established company policies and procedures, operating independently with minimal direct supervision.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical design, detailed estimation, and project management, which are crucial for effective GTM execution. The collaboration with architects and customers, alongside internal cross-functional leadership, points to a role deeply embedded in the pre-sales and project initiation phases of the revenue cycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field is preferred.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience in a design, estimation, or project coordination role within a manufacturing environment.

• Proven experience in interpreting complex architectural blueprints and creating accurate material takeoffs.

Required Skills:

• Architectural Blueprint Interpretation: Ability to meticulously read and understand complex architectural blueprints, shop drawings, and technical specifications.

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

• Sheet Metal Fabrication Knowledge: Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes, including common techniques and materials.

• Manufacturing Environment Experience: Familiarity with fabrication equipment such as shears, brakes, CNC punches, lasers, and welding machinery.

• Mathematical Computation: Strong capability in performing complex mathematical computations required for takeoffs and cost analysis.

• Microsoft Excel Proficiency: Advanced skills in Excel for data analysis, formula creation, and cost modeling.

• Interpersonal & Presentation Skills: Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills for effective collaboration with architects, customers, and internal teams.

• Communication: Ability to communicate effectively and professionally across multiple organizational levels and with external stakeholders.

• Independent Work Ethic: Proven ability to work independently with limited supervision, demonstrating self-direction and initiative.

• Decision-Making: Sound judgment and decision-making skills within defined company policies and guidelines.

Preferred Skills:

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

• Hands-on Fabrication Experience: Direct, hands-on experience with sheet metal fabrication techniques and equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a need for strong technical aptitude in design and fabrication, coupled with robust analytical and communication skills. The emphasis on Excel and mathematical computation, alongside blueprint reading, points to a role that requires a data-driven approach to design and estimation, crucial for operational efficiency and accurate GTM planning.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least two comprehensive case studies detailing the transformation of architectural designs into manufactured products, highlighting the estimation and design refinement stages.

• Demonstrate proficiency in creating detailed material takeoffs and project quotations, including examples of how complex specifications were managed.

• Include examples of design modifications proposed and implemented to meet architectural intent or improve manufacturability.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of how you have documented fabrication processes or designed workflows for custom product development.

• Documentation illustrating your approach to estimating time and materials, including any custom Excel models or formulas developed.

• Case studies outlining how you have resolved technical challenges or customer issues through design adjustments or process improvements.

• Evidence of vendor/subcontractor quote analysis and selection processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role that blends design and estimation, a portfolio demonstrating a structured approach to problem-solving, meticulous detail in calculations, and effective communication across diverse teams will be highly valued. The focus should be on tangible outcomes and process efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a mid-level Architectural Product Designer/Estimator with 2-5 years of experience in the Pennsylvania region, the estimated salary range is $65,000 - $85,000 per year. This estimate is derived from publicly available salary data for similar roles in manufacturing and engineering, considering the specific technical requirements and responsibilities outlined. The final compensation will be determined by the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and performance during the interview process.

Benefits:

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

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with potential company match, supporting long-term financial planning.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to promote work-life balance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, workshops, and potential support for certifications relevant to fabrication, design, and estimation.

• Hybrid Work Arrangement: Flexibility offered through a hybrid remote work model, balancing in-office collaboration with remote work.

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

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are approximately 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid nature of the role allows for flexibility in the work schedule, with specific in-office days to be coordinated with the team and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar roles in the specified region and experience level. Benefits are inferred based on standard offerings for manufacturing companies of this size and industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Specialty Metal Products, Architectural Components)

Company Size: Hendrick Manufacturing is likely a medium-sized enterprise, given the need for cross-functional coordination and specialized roles like this one. This size often provides a balance between established processes and the agility to innovate.

Founded: Hendrick Manufacturing was founded in 1971, indicating a long-standing history and deep expertise in its field, suggesting a culture rooted in tradition, quality, and customer commitment.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: This role sits within a broader operations or engineering department, coordinating closely with Production, Engineering, and Sales. The team likely comprises skilled fabricators, engineers, project managers, and sales representatives.

• Reporting Structure: The Architectural Product Designer / Estimator will likely report to an Engineering Manager, Operations Manager, or a Senior Estimator, depending on the organizational hierarchy.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expect extensive collaboration with Sales (for understanding client needs and proposal development), Engineering (for technical feasibility and design integration), and Production (for manufacturing insights and execution).

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design & Estimation: The role emphasizes using data from blueprints, specifications, and cost models (Excel) to drive design decisions and accurate quotations.

• Collaborative Workflow Planning: Projects are managed through collaboration, requiring clear communication and coordination across multiple teams and external partners.

• Continuous Improvement: The "Why This Role Is Different" section suggests a culture that values innovation, problem-solving, and not just executing tasks but influencing outcomes and improving processes.

Company Website: https://www.hendrickmanufacturing.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's history and industry suggest a focus on quality, precision, and long-term client relationships. The hybrid nature and the emphasis on influencing design indicate a forward-thinking culture that values employee contribution and adaptability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a mid-level role, often referred to as a "Specialist" or "Engineer II/III" in operations or technical design. It requires a solid foundation of technical skills and some years of practical experience, with a focus on specialized areas like estimation and product design within manufacturing.

Reporting Structure: The role typically reports to a functional manager (e.g., Engineering Manager, Operations Manager, or Sales Manager) who oversees the technical and project management aspects of GTM support. Direct reports are unlikely at this level, but the role involves significant influence over project direction and execution through collaboration.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the company's revenue generation and profitability. Accurate estimations and well-developed designs are crucial for winning bids, ensuring project profitability, and maintaining client satisfaction. By bridging the gap between architectural intent and manufacturing reality, this role directly supports the sales pipeline and ensures successful project delivery, contributing to the company's overall GTM strategy.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Designer/Estimator: Advancement to a senior role with greater project complexity, client interaction, and potentially team mentorship responsibilities.

• Project Management: Transition into a dedicated Project Management role, overseeing larger and more complex manufacturing projects.

• Sales Engineering: Move into a Sales Engineering or Technical Sales role, leveraging design and estimation expertise to support the sales team directly.

• Operations Management: Potential growth into broader operations management positions, overseeing production or specific manufacturing processes.

• Specialized Technical Expertise: Deepen expertise in specific fabrication technologies (e.g., advanced CNC, specialized welding) or material science.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role is well-defined within manufacturing operations, offering opportunities for both technical specialization and management progression. The emphasis on cross-functional impact also opens doors to roles with broader business responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role offers a Hybrid Remote work arrangement. This means a combination of working from the office in Carbondale, PA, and working remotely. The office environment is likely a blend of design/engineering workspace and potentially a manufacturing floor interface.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at Hendrick Manufacturing, 1 Seventh Avenue, Carbondale, PA 18407. This location is accessible within the region, and specific details regarding parking or public transport would need to be confirmed.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office space is designed to foster collaboration, with proximity to engineering, sales, and potentially production teams required for effective project coordination.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software, estimation tools (Excel-based formulas), and potentially CAD/CAM systems will be provided. A dedicated workspace for remote work is expected of the employee.

• Team Interaction: Regular in-person meetings, design reviews, and project discussions are expected on office days, facilitating quick problem-solving and team cohesion.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid model allows for flexibility, with specific days designated for in-office work and others for remote work, requiring effective time management and self-discipline to manage tasks efficiently across both environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role is a key differentiator, offering flexibility while requiring strong organizational skills to manage work across different locations. The Carbondale location suggests a role within a more traditional manufacturing hub.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, salary expectations, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager and potentially a senior team member. This will likely involve:

  • Blueprint Interpretation Exercise: Candidates may be asked to interpret a sample blueprint or shop drawing and explain their understanding of key elements.
  • Estimation Scenario: A hypothetical project scenario will be presented, requiring candidates to outline their approach to takeoffs and quotation preparation.
  • Technical Q&A: Questions about sheet metal fabrication processes, equipment, and materials.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, walking through 1-2 key projects that demonstrate their design, estimation, and project coordination skills.

• Cross-Functional Interview: An interview with representatives from Production, Sales, or Engineering to assess collaboration style and cross-functional communication effectiveness.

• Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and confirm final offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the initial architectural intent, your design/estimation process, the challenges encountered, the solutions implemented, and the final outcome (e.g., successful bid, cost savings, design optimization).

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate your impact. For example, "Prepared a quotation that secured a $X project," or "Identified a design modification that reduced material costs by Y%."

• Showcase Collaboration: Include examples where you successfully collaborated with architects, customers, or internal teams to achieve project goals.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that closely align with architectural fabrication, custom metal products, and detailed estimation.

• Be Prepared to Discuss Tools: Be ready to talk about your experience with Excel for estimation and any CAD/CAM software used.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Blueprint Reading: Familiarize yourself with common architectural drawing conventions and symbols.

• Develop Estimation Frameworks: Mentally walk through the steps of a material takeoff and cost estimation process. Consider common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Prepare Case Studies: Have 2-3 strong project examples ready that highlight your problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and collaborative abilities.

• Research Hendrick Manufacturing: Understand their products, services, and market position to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical acumen and collaborative capabilities. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates process and impact is critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/CAM Software: Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar for interpreting and potentially modifying 2D/3D designs.

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency is essential for creating and managing complex estimation models, cost analysis spreadsheets, and data tracking.

• Fabrication Equipment Software: Familiarity with software interfaces for CNC punch machines, laser cutters, and potentially welding equipment control systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• ERP/MRP Systems: Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Epicor) for understanding material costs, production scheduling, and inventory.

• Quoting Software: Familiarity with specialized quoting or estimating software if used by the company.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Experience with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) for understanding sales pipeline, customer interactions, and project history.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Monday.com, or Microsoft Project for coordinating project tasks and timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Excel and fabrication equipment software indicates a practical, hands-on approach to the role. Experience with ERP/MRP systems would be highly advantageous for understanding the broader manufacturing context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Accuracy: A commitment to detailed, accurate work in all aspects of design, estimation, and project coordination.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding high standards for manufactured products, reflecting the company's long history and reputation.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication and mutual support across departments to achieve common goals.

• Problem-Solving & Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions to technical challenges and embracing opportunities to improve processes and designs.

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

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with Sales, Engineering, and Production teams to ensure seamless project execution from bid to delivery.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on designs, estimates, and processes to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, particularly regarding fabrication capabilities and cost implications, to foster a learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values likely reflect a strong manufacturing heritage, emphasizing meticulous work, customer satisfaction, and effective teamwork, which are crucial for success in a role that interfaces with multiple business functions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Intent with Manufacturability: The primary challenge is reconciling complex architectural visions with the practical constraints and costs of sheet metal fabrication, requiring creative problem-solving.

• Accurate Cost Estimation: Ensuring precise material and labor cost calculations in a dynamic manufacturing environment to maintain profitability while remaining competitive.

• Cross-Departmental Coordination: Effectively managing communication and expectations across Sales, Engineering, Production, and external vendors, each with distinct priorities.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with advancements in fabrication equipment, materials, and design software to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Fabrication Techniques: Opportunities to learn about and work with cutting-edge sheet metal fabrication technologies.

• Project Management Skills: Developing skills in managing complex projects, timelines, and budgets.

• Cost Engineering & Analysis: Deepening expertise in financial modeling, cost optimization, and bid strategy.

• Material Science: Expanding knowledge of different metals, alloys, and their properties relevant to architectural applications.

• Industry Certifications: Potential for pursuing certifications related to CAD/CAM, project management, or specific fabrication processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex technical and operational challenges within a well-established manufacturing setting.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to interpret a complex architectural blueprint. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure accuracy in your takeoff and estimate?" (Focus on your systematic approach, tools used, and verification steps.)

• "How do you balance a client's or architect's aesthetic design with the practical limitations and costs of sheet metal fabrication?" (Highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to propose alternatives, and communication strategies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Hendrick Manufacturing specifically, given your background?" (Research their projects, company history, and values. Connect your skills to their needs.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with different departments, such as Sales and Production, when their priorities might differ?" (Emphasize your communication skills, understanding of stakeholder needs, and ability to find common ground.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly define the problem (architectural intent), your solution (design/estimation process), the actions you took (collaboration, calculations), and the results (successful bid, cost savings, client satisfaction).

• Quantify Your Impact: Use numbers and data whenever possible to illustrate the scale and success of your contributions.

• Focus on Process: Explain how you achieved the results, not just what you achieved. This demonstrates your understanding and methodology.

• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific fabrication techniques, materials, or software used in your portfolio examples.

• Demonstrate Cultural Fit: Weave in examples that show your ability to collaborate, problem-solve, and uphold quality standards, aligning with Hendrick's likely values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a methodical approach to design and estimation, strong problem-solving skills, and effective cross-functional collaboration, supported by concrete examples from your portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Architectural Product Designer / Estimator position:

• Submit your application through the provided Paycom link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in architectural blueprint reading, material takeoffs, project estimation, sheet metal fabrication, and cross-functional coordination. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong project examples that showcase your end-to-end process from interpreting architectural drawings to delivering accurate quotations. Focus on demonstrating your design influence, estimation accuracy, and collaborative skills.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to technical problem-solving, estimation methodologies, and collaboration scenarios. Be ready to present your portfolio effectively.

• Research Hendrick Manufacturing: Understand their product lines, company history, and values. Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, and company culture.

⚠️ 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.

---