Architectural Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architectural Product Designer / Estimator

Company: Etnyre International

Location: Carbondale, Pennsylvania, USA

Job Type: Other

Category: Engineering / Manufacturing Operations

Date Posted: March 06, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for transforming architectural intent into tangible, manufactured products by deeply understanding and interpreting complex architectural blueprints and technical specifications.

• Drives the estimation and quotation process, utilizing strong mathematical and Excel-based skills to calculate material and labor costs for custom-designed products.

• Serves as a key liaison, collaborating directly with architects, customers, and internal teams (Production, Engineering, Sales) to refine designs and ensure project alignment from concept to completion.

• Manages project coordination, integrating efforts across various departments and external stakeholders like outside representatives and subcontractors to ensure seamless execution.

• Focuses on cost optimization by soliciting and qualifying competitive quotes from vendors and subcontractors, directly impacting project profitability and client value.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Architectural Product Designer," the responsibilities and qualifications strongly indicate a hybrid role blending design interpretation, technical estimation, and project coordination within a manufacturing context. This role is critical for bridging the gap between architectural vision and the realities of fabrication, making it a core GTM (Go-To-Market) enablement function through accurate pricing and design feasibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

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

• Conduct detailed material and labor takeoffs to prepare accurate, comprehensive, and competitive project quotations.

• Estimate project timelines and resource requirements using established methods, particularly leveraging Excel-based formulas for efficiency and precision.

• Collaborate proactively with architects and customers to develop and refine product designs, ensuring they meet both architectural vision and manufacturing feasibility.

• Lead and coordinate cross-functional project teams, including Production, Engineering, Sales, external representatives, and subcontractors, to ensure successful project execution.

• Solicit, evaluate, and qualify quotes from vendors and subcontractors to secure competitive pricing and optimal resource allocation.

• Anticipate and address customer needs, proactively identifying and resolving potential issues to ensure client satisfaction and project success.

• Exercise sound judgment and decision-making within established company policies and procedures, working independently to manage assigned projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "transforming architectural intent into real-world products" and "influencing design" suggests this role is more than just a pure estimator. It requires a blend of technical design understanding, project management, and client-facing communication, positioning it as a crucial GTM function that directly impacts sales pipeline accuracy and customer acquisition success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience in a manufacturing or construction environment, with a focus on product design interpretation and estimation.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex architectural blueprints, shop drawings, and technical specifications.

• Strong understanding of sheet metal fabrication processes, including capabilities and limitations.

• Demonstrated experience in performing accurate material and labor takeoffs.

• Excellent computer skills, with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for calculations, formulas, and data analysis.

• Strong mathematical computation skills for accurate cost estimation and analysis.

• Effective interpersonal, telephone, and presentation skills for client and internal communication.

• Ability to communicate technical information clearly and concisely across multiple organizational levels.

• Solid understanding of general office procedures and workflow management.

Preferred Skills:

• Hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication.

• Background or experience in commercial construction projects.

• Familiarity with fabrication equipment such as shears, brakes, CNC punch, lasers, and welding equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a strong technical foundation in manufacturing and fabrication, combined with essential analytical and communication skills. For operations professionals, this translates to a need for demonstrating process-oriented thinking, data-driven decision-making through Excel, and effective cross-functional collaboration, which are core to GTM operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating your ability to interpret architectural blueprints and translate them into accurate, cost-effective product designs and quotations.

• Include examples of detailed takeoffs, material lists, and cost breakdowns, highlighting your Excel proficiency and analytical rigor.

• Present instances where you collaborated with architects or customers to refine designs, illustrating your problem-solving and communication skills in a design context.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your systematic approach to interpreting technical specifications and identifying potential design challenges or cost-saving opportunities.

• Articulate your methodology for estimating labor and material costs, including how you leverage tools like Excel for accuracy and efficiency.

• Discuss your process for managing vendor and subcontractor quotes, including qualification criteria and negotiation strategies.

• Provide examples of how you've proactively resolved issues or anticipated customer needs during the design and estimation phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-focused applicant, the portfolio should emphasize quantitative achievements, process improvements, and the tangible impact of their estimation and design contributions on project profitability and sales cycle efficiency. Highlighting how they've used data to inform decisions and streamline processes will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility between remote work and on-site collaboration.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in design and fabrication technologies.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week. The hybrid arrangement allows for flexibility in structuring workdays between home and the Carbondale, PA office.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general industry data for similar roles in Pennsylvania and the specified experience level. Actual compensation may vary based on specific qualifications, interview performance, and Etnyre International's compensation structure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Specialty Products, likely metal fabrication based on the description). Etnyre International operates within a sector that requires precision, technical expertise, and a strong focus on product quality and customer satisfaction. This industry often values reliability, innovation, and efficiency in production processes.

Company Size: Etnyre International is likely a mid-sized to large enterprise, given the organizational structure implied by cross-departmental collaboration and the potential for multiple locations. This size typically offers a balance of established processes and opportunities for individual impact.

Founded: [Company Founded information not provided]. A company with a significant history (if applicable) often signifies stability and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• The role reports into an Engineering or Production management structure, with significant dotted-line reporting and collaboration across Sales, Production, and potentially external representatives and subcontractors.

• This structure emphasizes a matrixed approach where project success relies heavily on effective cross-functional communication and coordination.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design & Estimation: Emphasizes accurate data analysis from blueprints and specifications to inform design decisions and cost estimations.

• Collaborative Workflow Optimization: Relies on teamwork and communication to streamline the process from initial architectural concept through to final product delivery.

• Customer-Centric Problem Solving: Focuses on understanding and meeting customer needs through tailored solutions and proactive issue resolution.

Company Website: Etnyre International (implied domain: etnyreinternational.com)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on transforming architectural intent into real products suggests a culture that values technical expertise, precision, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving. The hybrid nature of the role indicates a forward-thinking company that balances flexibility with the need for in-person collaboration.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level position (2-5 years of experience). It requires specialized technical skills in architectural interpretation and estimation, along with the ability to manage project complexities independently. It serves as a critical bridge between sales/design and production.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to an Engineering Manager, Senior Estimator, or Production Manager. However, its success is heavily dependent on strong collaborative relationships with Sales, Architects, Customers, and Production teams.

Operations Impact: The Architectural Product Designer/Estimator has a significant impact on the company's revenue and profitability by:

• Ensuring accurate and competitive pricing, which directly influences sales win rates and profit margins.

• Translating architectural requirements into manufacturable designs, reducing costly errors and rework in production.

• Enhancing customer satisfaction through effective design collaboration and proactive problem-solving, fostering repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Estimator/Designer: Advance to roles with greater responsibility for complex projects, client relationships, and potentially team leadership.

• Project Management: Transition into a dedicated Project Manager role, leveraging project coordination and stakeholder management skills.

• Sales Engineering/Technical Sales: Move into a client-facing role where technical expertise is used to support sales efforts and provide technical solutions.

• Operations Management: Develop into leadership roles within production or operations, overseeing manufacturing processes and teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role offers a pathway to gain deep insights into the product lifecycle, from initial design to final fabrication, and understand the financial implications of design and estimation decisions. This experience is highly valuable for career progression into roles focused on profitability, efficiency, and strategic GTM planning.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as Hybrid Remote. This suggests a combination of working from a home office and the Etnyre International facility located at 1 Seventh Avenue, Carbondale, PA 18407. The on-site component is crucial for collaboration with production, engineering, and sales teams.

Office Location(s): The primary office location for on-site work is Carbondale, PA. This location is where key team members and fabrication facilities are likely situated, necessitating regular in-person interaction.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The on-site workspace will likely foster collaboration, with opportunities for face-to-face meetings, brainstorming sessions, and direct interaction with colleagues from various departments.

• Technical Resources: Access to necessary design software, estimation tools (particularly advanced Excel models), and potentially CAD/CAM systems will be available on-site, supplementing remote work capabilities.

• Interdisciplinary Interaction: The environment encourages interaction with engineers, production staff, sales representatives, and potentially architects or clients, offering diverse perspectives and learning opportunities.

Work Schedule: The hybrid model allows for a degree of flexibility in structuring work, balancing focused remote work (e.g., for detailed takeoffs and analysis) with essential on-site collaboration and project meetings in Carbondale, PA.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature is a key differentiator. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how they effectively manage communication, collaboration, and task completion across both remote and in-office settings, demonstrating adaptability and strong self-management skills crucial for operations roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess technical skills, relevant experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely involves a deep dive into your experience with architectural blueprint interpretation, takeoff methods, estimation techniques, and sheet metal fabrication processes. Expect technical questions and scenario-based problem-solving.

• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: You may be asked to present specific projects from your portfolio, detailing your process, challenges, solutions, and the quantifiable outcomes achieved.

• Cross-Functional/Manager Interview: An assessment of your collaboration style, communication skills, problem-solving approach, and cultural fit with the Etnyre International team. This may involve meeting with hiring managers from Sales, Production, or Engineering.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss your strategic approach and long-term potential within the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, highlight measurable results: e.g., "Reduced estimation time by X%," "Identified cost savings of Y%," "Achieved Z% accuracy in material takeoffs."

• Showcase Process: Clearly outline your step-by-step approach to interpreting blueprints, performing takeoffs, and developing quotes. Use visual aids if possible.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Include examples where you worked effectively with architects, customers, or internal teams to resolve design challenges or meet project requirements.

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Showcase your mastery of Excel for complex calculations and data management, and mention any familiarity with CAD or specialized estimating software.

• Tailor to Etnyre: Research Etnyre International's products and typical projects to tailor your examples and demonstrate how your skills align with their specific needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a practical estimation exercise or a detailed review of a complex blueprint. Practice your takeoffs and cost-calculation methods under timed conditions.

• Anticipate questions about how you would handle conflicting architectural specifications or unexpected material cost fluctuations.

• Prepare to discuss your experience with different sheet metal fabrication techniques and equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operations candidates should emphasize their ability to bring structure, data-driven insights, and efficiency to the design and estimation process. Demonstrating how they can improve existing workflows or reduce estimation cycle times will be highly impactful.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Excel: Essential for detailed takeoffs, cost calculations, material tracking, and quote generation. Advanced formula, pivot table, and potentially VBA knowledge is highly advantageous.

• CAD/CAM Software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor): While not explicitly required, familiarity with these tools for viewing and potentially manipulating architectural drawings and 3D models would be beneficial.

• Project Management Software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, MS Project): Useful for coordinating projects across departments, tracking deadlines, and managing task assignments.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Reporting Tools: Likely used for tracking quote conversion rates, project profitability, and material usage.

• Excel-based Dashboards: For summarizing key metrics related to estimation volume, accuracy, and turnaround time.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot): To understand how quotes and project details integrate with the sales pipeline and customer records.

• Potential ERP System Integration: Knowledge of how estimation data flows into enterprise resource planning systems for procurement and production planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, proficiency in Excel is paramount. Highlighting any experience with automation within Excel (e.g., macros, scripts) or with CRM/ERP systems will demonstrate an ability to contribute to broader operational efficiency and data integrity.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision & Accuracy: A core value, essential for reliable estimations and high-quality product design that minimizes errors in fabrication.

• Collaboration & Communication: Emphasizes teamwork across departments and with external partners to achieve project success.

• Problem-Solving & Innovation: Encourages finding creative and practical solutions to design and production challenges.

• Efficiency & Timeliness: Values meeting deadlines and optimizing processes to ensure timely project delivery and customer satisfaction.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building long-term relationships through quality and service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a team environment where regular communication and joint problem-solving occur between Design, Engineering, Sales, and Production.

• Process-Oriented Feedback: A culture that likely encourages constructive feedback to improve workflows and product designs.

• Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues in fabrication, engineering, and sales to broaden understanding of the product lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operations candidates should highlight their ability to foster a data-driven and collaborative approach within teams, demonstrating how they can improve communication channels and drive efficiency through standardized processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Intent with Manufacturing Realities: The primary challenge is translating potentially complex or aesthetic architectural designs into feasible, cost-effective, and manufacturable products within established fabrication capabilities.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholder Expectations: Juggling the needs and feedback from architects, customers, sales, and internal production teams requires strong negotiation and communication skills.

• Accurate Cost Estimation in Volatile Markets: Ensuring precise cost estimations amidst fluctuating material prices and labor availability requires robust forecasting and risk assessment.

• Adapting to New Design Trends and Technologies: Staying current with evolving architectural styles, fabrication techniques, and software tools is crucial for long-term effectiveness.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepening Fabrication Expertise: Gaining advanced knowledge of various sheet metal fabrication processes, equipment, and materials.

• Advanced Estimation Techniques: Developing expertise in more sophisticated cost modeling, risk analysis, and pricing strategies.

• Design Software Proficiency: Enhancing skills in CAD/CAM software for more direct design input or analysis.

• Project Management Skills: Developing leadership capabilities for managing larger, more complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operations professionals can frame these challenges as opportunities to implement process improvements, data analysis frameworks, and risk mitigation strategies, showcasing their proactive approach to operational excellence.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to interpret a particularly complex architectural blueprint. What was your process, and what challenges did you face?" (Focus on your systematic approach and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy in your takeoffs and cost estimations, especially when dealing with tight deadlines or incomplete information?" (Highlight your methodologies, use of tools like Excel, and quality control checks.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Etnyre International and this specific role as an Architectural Product Designer/Estimator?" (Research the company's products and market position.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with teams like Sales and Production, given their different priorities?" (Demonstrate your understanding of cross-functional dynamics and your ability to build consensus.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly define the problem (architectural intent), your solution (design interpretation, estimation process), and the results (accuracy, cost savings, client satisfaction).

• Quantify Everything: Use numbers and metrics to demonstrate your impact. For example, "My detailed takeoff led to a 15% reduction in material waste."

• Explain Your "Why": Be ready to articulate the rationale behind your design choices or estimation decisions, showing your critical thinking.

• Emphasize Process: Detail the steps you took, highlighting any innovative approaches or efficiency gains you introduced.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations candidates, focus on demonstrating how your analytical skills, process-oriented thinking, and data-driven approach can optimize the design-to-quote cycle, leading to increased sales efficiency and profitability.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Paycom.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience in architectural blueprint interpretation, cost estimation, sheet metal fabrication, and cross-functional collaboration. Prepare 2-3 specific project examples that showcase your quantitative achievements in accuracy, cost savings, or efficiency improvements.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your proficiency with Excel for complex calculations and data analysis, your understanding of manufacturing processes, and your ability to manage project details. Use keywords from the job description such as "takeoffs," "quotations," "sheet metal fabrication," and "blueprint interpretation."

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering technical questions related to estimation and fabrication. Prepare to present your portfolio case studies, focusing on your process, challenges, and quantifiable results. Be ready to discuss how you manage hybrid work environments and collaborate effectively across different teams.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Etnyre International's products, services, and market presence. Understand their likely customer base and the types of architectural projects they engage with to better tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.

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