Associate Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Associate Product Designer

Company: S&C Electric Company

Location: Etobicoke, ON, Canada (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Design / Engineering

Date Posted: April 07, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (Possibility of 1 day WFH)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on supporting the design and development of medium voltage distribution switches, a critical component in the electrical power grid.

• The Associate Product Designer will utilize CAD software to create and maintain design models, drawings, and bills of materials for standard parts and assemblies.

• The position involves hands-on involvement with prototype assembly, testing, and evaluation, requiring close collaboration with engineering, QA, and shop floor personnel.

• This role is an excellent opportunity for an early-career Mechanical Engineering Technologist to gain practical experience in a manufacturing environment within the power industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Associate Product Designer," the responsibilities and qualifications clearly place this role within a Mechanical Engineering Technology discipline, focusing on product design and support within a manufacturing context for electrical grid infrastructure. The emphasis on CAD, prototyping, and manufacturing processes aligns with an operations-centric engineering function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive design support for standard parts and assemblies of medium voltage distribution switches, specifically for the 14.4kv through 69kv range.

• Actively participate in product redesign projects and conduct investigations for both small-scale enhancements and larger-scale product modifications.

• Gain hands-on experience by assembling prototype samples and participating in their subsequent testing and evaluation phases.

• Regularly engage with Quality Assurance (QA) and shop floor personnel to effectively resolve design-related issues that emerge during production or testing.

• Independently prepare detailed design models and drawings using Solid Edge 3D CAD software, ensuring meticulous maintenance of these models, drawings, and associated bills of materials (BOMs) within the 3DX design management system.

• Support supplier quality and sourcing initiatives, including active participation in the Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) to ensure component quality and compliance.

• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts within a Lean manufacturing environment, identifying and implementing process efficiencies.

• Exercise independent judgment to make informed decisions from numerous alternatives, often under general guidance provided by established standards and procedures, demonstrating sound technical judgment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of design execution, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration, typical of an entry-level engineering role supporting manufacturing operations. The mention of 3DX and PPAP indicates a structured product lifecycle management and quality control environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 2D/3D CAD software, with a preference for Solid Edge and Microstation.

• Experience with Product Data Management (PDM) systems such as 3DX or equivalent Dassault systems.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, coupled with a keen attention to detail.

• Solid understanding of basic mechanical engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and material properties.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret technical drawings and perform drafting tasks, with familiarity in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).

• Sound technical judgment for effective problem-solving.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

• Experience in designing various mechanical parts, including castings, sheet metal components, and machined parts.

• Familiarity with inspecting parts and assemblies using basic measurement tools like calipers and gauges, and performing visual inspections.

Preferred Skills:

• Some exposure to power engineering principles.

• Basic understanding of electric utility distribution systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical design skills and foundational engineering knowledge, aligning with an Associate-level position. The specific CAD and PDM software requirements are critical for candidates to highlight. The preference for power engineering and utility distribution systems suggests a specialized industry focus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 1-2 design projects demonstrating the creation of mechanical parts (castings, sheet metal, machined) using 3D CAD software (e.g., Solid Edge).

• Include examples of technical drawings with GD&T annotations, illustrating attention to detail and adherence to manufacturing standards.

• Present at least one case study of a product redesign or investigation, detailing the problem, your approach, and the outcome.

Process Documentation:

• For any presented projects, be prepared to discuss the design process, including initial concept, modeling, drawing creation, and revision control.

• Highlight experience or understanding of manufacturing processes relevant to the parts designed (e.g., casting, machining, sheet metal fabrication).

• Be ready to explain how you would approach resolving design issues encountered on the shop floor or during prototype testing, demonstrating problem-solving methodology.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal portfolio requirement, an Associate Product Designer is expected to demonstrate practical application of their skills. Candidates should prepare to showcase relevant design work that aligns with the job description, particularly CAD models, technical drawings, and evidence of problem-solving in a manufacturing context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated annual base salary range: $54,630 - $72,387.4 CAD.

Incentive Plan:

• Target annual incentive plan (AIP) bonus: 4% of annual base earnings.

Benefits:

• Generous employer-matched retirement savings plan.

• Three weeks of paid vacation, plus paid holiday shutdown.

• 100% employer-paid health and wellness benefits, including:

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
  • Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) and Personal Spending Account (PSA).
  • Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), and disability insurance, with optional enhancement.

• Summer hours program.

• Education reimbursement.

• Seniority recognition.

Working Hours:

• Standard work week is 40 hours.

• The work arrangement is primarily Onsite, with a possibility of 1 day Work From Home (WFH).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the role and location. The inclusion of a target bonus and comprehensive benefits package, including health spending accounts and education reimbursement, is a strong draw for candidates seeking stability and professional development. The hybrid nature of the work arrangement, with a significant onsite component, should be noted.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electrical Power Grid Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Energy Technology. S&C Electric Company is a long-standing leader in providing reliable power solutions, with a significant history of innovation.

Company Size: Over 3,500 team members globally. This indicates a large, established organization with robust processes and resources, yet small enough for individual impact.

Founded: S&C Electric Company was founded in 1909, with a history of over 70 years of innovation in Canada. This suggests a company with deep expertise, stability, and a strong legacy in its field.

Team Structure:

• The Associate Product Designer will report to the Assistant Manager, Product Design.

• They will be part of a team of highly skilled engineers and designers focused on medium voltage distribution switches.

Methodology:

• The company operates within a Lean manufacturing environment, emphasizing continuous improvement and efficiency.

• Design work is managed through Product Data Management (PDM) systems like 3DX, ensuring structured data and version control.

• Quality control processes, including Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), are integral to the product development lifecycle.

• The company is committed to advancing a safer, more reliable, and resilient electrical grid.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: S&C Electric's long history and focus on grid reliability provide a stable and impactful industry context. The company's size suggests opportunities for mentorship and structured career development, while its Lean manufacturing approach highlights a culture of efficiency and continuous improvement, which is highly relevant for operations-focused roles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an Associate-level position, marking the beginning of a career path in product design and engineering within the electrical manufacturing sector. It's suitable for individuals with foundational education and minimal practical experience.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to an Assistant Manager, Product Design, placing it within a mid-level management structure. This provides direct oversight and mentorship opportunities.

Operations Impact: The work directly contributes to the reliability and resilience of the electrical grid by supporting the design and improvement of distribution switches. This has a tangible impact on power delivery to communities and critical infrastructure, aligning with S&C's mission.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in mechanical design, CAD software (Solid Edge, Microstation), PDM systems (3DX), and manufacturing processes specific to high-voltage electrical equipment.

• Industry Knowledge: Develop a strong understanding of power engineering principles and electric utility distribution systems, which are considered assets.

• Career Advancement: Potential to progress to Product Designer, Senior Product Designer, or specialized engineering roles through demonstrated performance and continued learning.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience working with QA, shop floor operations, and potentially supply chain functions, broadening operational understanding.

• Lean Manufacturing: Further develop skills in continuous improvement initiatives and Lean principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for an Associate Product Designer in this context is clearly defined by increasing technical expertise, project responsibility, and potential movement into more senior or specialized engineering roles within the company's manufacturing and product development divisions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily Onsite, with a potential for 1 day Work From Home (WFH) per week, indicating a hybrid model. This suggests a structured workday with a focus on in-person collaboration and access to necessary facilities.

Office Location(s): 90 Belfield Road, Etobicoke, ON, M9W 1G4. This location is within the Greater Toronto Area, offering accessibility for local candidates.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires regular engagement with engineers, designers, QA, and shop floor personnel, fostering a collaborative and team-oriented workspace.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard CAD software (Solid Edge), PDM systems (3DX), and basic inspection tools will be provided.

• Operations Integration: Close proximity and interaction with manufacturing operations are inherent to the role, providing direct insight into production challenges and efficiencies.

Work Schedule:

• The typical work schedule is 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid arrangement offers some flexibility, with a potential for one WFH day, which may be beneficial for focused design work or personal appointments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement, with a strong emphasis on onsite presence, is typical for manufacturing and engineering roles where direct interaction with physical products and production teams is crucial for effective design support and problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely review applications for basic qualifications (education, experience, required skills).

• Technical Interview: Expect an interview with the hiring manager and potentially senior engineers/designers. This will focus on technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of CAD/PDM systems.

• Portfolio Review: Be prepared to walk through 1-2 relevant design projects from your education or previous experience. Focus on your specific contributions, design decisions, and any challenges overcome.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions assessing teamwork, communication, problem-solving approach, and adaptability to a manufacturing environment.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or a broader team assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select Relevant Projects: Choose projects that showcase mechanical design, CAD proficiency (Solid Edge), technical drawing with GD&T, and ideally, any manufacturing considerations.

• Structure Your Presentation: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your design approach, the tools used, the outcome, and any lessons learned. Use visuals (renderings, drawings) to support your explanation.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: If a project involved overcoming a design challenge or resolving an issue, emphasize your analytical process and solution.

• Demonstrate Understanding of Manufacturing: For this role, showing awareness of how designs translate to production (e.g., material choices, manufacturing processes) is beneficial.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): While difficult for academic projects, if you can mention any efficiency gains or improvements achieved through your design work, it's valuable.

Challenge Preparation:

• CAD Exercise: You might be asked to perform a basic CAD task or interpret a complex drawing.

• Problem-Solving Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical design issue on the shop floor or with a prototype.

• Technical Questions: Review fundamental mechanical engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and GD&T.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an Associate role, the interview process will likely assess foundational technical skills and potential. A well-prepared candidate who can articulate their design process and demonstrate practical application of their education will stand out.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Software: Solid Edge (primary), Microstation (preferred). Proficiency in creating parametric 3D models, assemblies, and detailed 2D drawings is essential.

• Product Data Management (PDM) System: 3DX (primary) or equivalent Dassault systems. Experience in managing design data, revisions, and BOMs within a PDM environment is required.

• Basic Measurement Tools: Calipers, gauges for part inspection.

• Hand Tools: Familiarity with common hand tools used in assembly and prototyping.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core function, but awareness of how design data feeds into broader operational systems may be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Solid Edge and 3DX is critical. Candidates should highlight any experience with these specific tools or directly transferable skills from similar software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor for CAD; Windchill, Teamcenter for PDM).

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in design and decision-making.

• Safety: Prioritizing safety in all design considerations for products and manufacturing processes.

• Quality: Commitment to producing high-quality designs that meet rigorous industry and company standards.

• Innovation: Contributing to the ongoing development and improvement of power grid technologies.

• Efficiency: Supporting Lean manufacturing principles and driving process improvements.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with manufacturing, QA, and potentially sourcing teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, reliable, and cost-effective.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A collaborative approach to identifying and resolving technical challenges.

• Continuous Improvement: Openness to feedback and suggestions for enhancing both product designs and internal processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: S&C Electric emphasizes core values that are fundamental to manufacturing and engineering operations. Candidates should align their responses with these values, demonstrating a commitment to quality, safety, and collaborative problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Theory to Practice: Bridging the gap between academic knowledge and the demands of a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

• Complex Design Requirements: Working with medium voltage electrical equipment necessitates a high degree of precision and adherence to strict standards.

• Cross-functional Communication: Effectively communicating technical designs and resolving issues with diverse stakeholders (engineers, shop floor, QA).

• Adapting to Legacy Systems/Processes: Integrating new designs or improvements within established manufacturing lines and PDM systems.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Deepen expertise in Solid Edge, 3DX, and GD&T through practical application.

• Industry-Specific Knowledge: Gain comprehensive understanding of electrical grid infrastructure, power engineering, and distribution systems.

• Manufacturing Process Familiarity: Learn about various manufacturing techniques relevant to electrical components.

• Lean Manufacturing Principles: Develop practical skills in continuous improvement and efficiency initiatives.

• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from experienced engineers and designers within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for an Associate role in manufacturing. The growth opportunities are well-defined, focusing on skill acquisition and industry knowledge that can lead to career progression within S&C Electric.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Describe your design process for creating a mechanical part from concept to drawing." Be ready to use a project from your portfolio as an example.

• Problem Solving: "Imagine a part you designed is failing QA checks due to a manufacturing tolerance issue. How would you approach diagnosing and resolving this?"

• Software Proficiency: "What is your experience with Solid Edge and PDM systems like 3DX? How have you used them to manage design data?"

• Teamwork: "Describe a time you had to collaborate with non-designers (e.g., shop floor, QA) to resolve a technical issue."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about S&C Electric and its role in the power industry?"

• "How do you approach working in a Lean manufacturing environment?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Conciseness: Focus on the most relevant projects that showcase your CAD, GD&T, and design capabilities.

• Clarity: Clearly explain the problem, your solution, and the tools/methods used. Use visuals effectively.

• Technical Detail: Be prepared to discuss specific design choices, material considerations, and manufacturing implications.

• Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the role, the company, and the opportunity to contribute to power grid reliability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong foundational understanding of mechanical design principles, practical CAD skills, and an aptitude for problem-solving within a manufacturing context. Highlighting any experience with specific tools like Solid Edge and 3DX will be highly advantageous.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Associate Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link.

• Prepare Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your Mechanical Engineering Technology education, any relevant design projects (academic or professional), and specific CAD/PDM software experience (especially Solid Edge and 3DX). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 1-2 key design projects that best demonstrate your skills in mechanical part design, technical drawing (with GD&T), and CAD proficiency. Be ready to articulate your process and any challenges overcome.

• Research S&C Electric: Familiarize yourself with the company's history, mission, products (especially distribution switches), and its role in the power industry. Understand their commitment to reliability and innovation.

• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare answers for technical, behavioral, and situational questions, using examples from your experience. Practice articulating your design process and problem-solving approach.

⚠️ 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.