Design Manager - Mechanical

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Mechanical

Company: Diversified Conveyors International, LLC

Location: Memphis, Tennessee, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations Management / Engineering Management

Date Posted: March 12, 2026

Experience Level: 7-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage multiple engineering teams responsible for the design of material handling systems, ensuring projects are delivered on time, accurately, and within budget constraints.

• Lead the development of overall system layouts, fabrication drawings, and installation drawings, ensuring compliance with industry standards and customer-specific requirements.

• Drive process improvement initiatives within the engineering department, enhancing design procedures, tools, and overall project delivery efficiency.

• Provide leadership and mentorship to a team of engineers, designers, and drafters, focusing on performance management, career development, and skill enhancement.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Sales, System Solution Group, Project Management, and Field Operations to support business development and successful project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role clearly sits at the intersection of engineering management and operations, with a strong emphasis on process optimization and execution. The "Design Manager - Mechanical" title, coupled with responsibilities related to fabrication, installation, and collaboration with Project Management and Field Operations, indicates a critical GTM operations support function. The requirement for extensive knowledge of FedEx, UPS, or Amazon conveyor design specifications further solidifies its operational impact within the logistics and material handling sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Perform and supervise engineering duties related to the design, fabrication, and installation of complex material handling systems.

• Ensure all engineering outputs adhere to applicable codes, industry standards, and client-specific regulations.

• Develop and communicate detailed engineering schedules for assigned projects, coordinating with Project Managers and Field Operations.

• Cultivate and maintain in-depth knowledge of customer standards and specifications pertinent to material handling design.

• Conduct thorough design reviews, incorporating data from site visits and suggesting corrective actions to prevent recurring issues.

• Lead the training and professional development of engineering department personnel, including performance appraisals and career path planning.

• Collaborate with the Sales and System Solution Group to contribute to the development of new business opportunities and system designs.

• Prepare and present technical reports, handbooks, and bulletins for internal staff and external clients.

• Oversee the creation of quality drawings that are functional and optimized for both installation and fabrication processes.

• Ensure designs are evaluated and recommended based on appearance, safety, budget, and functional requirements.

• Uphold and enforce all company policies and procedures, acting as a role model for the engineering team.

• Actively participate in identifying and implementing innovative design solutions to meet evolving business and customer needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, people management, and operational execution. The emphasis on "fabrication drawings" and "installation drawings" directly links the design phase to downstream operations and production. The requirement to "anticipate and support the needs of Field Operations and Project Management" underscores the role's critical contribution to the overall GTM success and operational efficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Industrial Engineering is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in Material Handling System Design and Development.

Required Skills:

• Extensive knowledge of FedEx, UPS, or Amazon Conveyor Design Specifications and Standards.

• Proven leadership and team management capabilities, including performance reviews and professional development.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear internal and external stakeholder interactions.

• Strong project management collaboration skills, working effectively with Project Managers and Field Operations.

• Proficiency in ensuring engineering output meets applicable codes, standards, and regulations.

• Ability to develop and maintain a detailed knowledge of customer standards and specifications.

• Expertise in overseeing designs based on appearance, safety, budget, and function.

• Strong interpersonal skills with a demonstrated "heart to serve" attitude.

• Ability to multitask, prioritize work effectively, and meet stringent deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience managing engineering teams is considered a significant plus.

• Proficiency with 2D and 3D CAD Software, with preference for Inventor, Revit, and AutoCAD.

• Experience with FEA (Finite Element Analysis) software, such as RISA 3D.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "FedEx, UPS, or Amazon Conveyor Design Specifications and Standards" is a critical differentiator for this role, pointing to a need for candidates with direct, hands-on experience in these highly specific operational environments. The preference for specific CAD and FEA software indicates a need for advanced technical proficiency beyond basic design tools.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 significant material handling system design projects, detailing the scope, challenges, and implemented solutions.

• Provide examples of fabrication drawings and installation drawings, demonstrating accuracy, clarity, and adherence to specifications.

• Include documentation of process improvements implemented within previous design teams or projects, highlighting efficiency gains or cost reductions.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing standardized design processes or workflows.

• Examples of how data from site visits and post-installation reviews were used to refine design procedures and prevent recurrence of issues.

• Documentation of training materials or mentorship programs developed for engineering team members.

• Case studies demonstrating successful collaboration with Project Management and Field Operations to ensure seamless project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. The emphasis should be on showing not just technical design capability, but also leadership in process improvement, team management, and cross-functional operational alignment. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their portfolio, explaining the "why" and "how" behind their design decisions and process enhancements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Full-time position with a comprehensive benefits package.

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match.

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

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

Working Hours:

• Full-time position, averaging approximately 45 hours per week.

• Flexibility required, with potential for nights and weekends as necessary to meet critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for engineering management roles with significant experience in a major metropolitan area like Memphis. The "avg. 45 hours per week, nights and weekends as required" indicates a demanding role where operational deadlines are paramount, requiring a candidate willing to invest extra time to ensure project success.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Material Handling Systems & Equipment Manufacturing. Diversified Conveyors International, LLC operates within a sector critical to logistics, e-commerce fulfillment, and manufacturing operations, providing essential infrastructure for supply chains.

Company Size: Specific size not provided, but the presence of multiple engineering teams and a Director of Engineering suggests a medium to large organization with established operational processes.

Founded: Founding date not provided, but the company's established presence in the market is implied by the need for experienced leadership and process development.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will lead multiple teams of engineers, designers, and drafters within the Engineering Department.

• This role reports to the Director of Engineering.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven design decisions, utilizing site visit data and performance feedback for continuous improvement.

• Structured approach to project execution, ensuring designs are accurate, on-time, and within budget.

• Focus on developing and refining processes, procedures, and tools to enhance operational efficiency and project delivery quality.

• Collaborative problem-solving and innovation to meet evolving business and customer needs.

Company Website: https://www.diversifiedconveyors.com/ (Assumed based on domain derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on material handling systems implies a culture that values efficiency, reliability, and technical precision. The "heart to serve" and "friendly, professional, optimistic demeanor" requirements suggest a customer-centric approach and a positive internal working environment, crucial for effective team leadership and cross-functional collaboration.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management position, overseeing a critical function that directly impacts project delivery and operational success. It requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and an understanding of GTM operational needs.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to the Director of Engineering and manages multiple direct reports, including engineers, designers, and drafters. This structure allows for direct input into strategic engineering decisions and operational planning.

Operations Impact: The role's primary operations impact is ensuring that material handling systems are designed efficiently, cost-effectively, and to the exact specifications required for successful fabrication and installation. This directly influences project timelines, customer satisfaction, and the company's ability to secure and deliver future business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential advancement to Director of Engineering or similar senior leadership roles within the operations or engineering functions.

• Opportunities to lead larger, more complex projects or broader engineering departments.

• Specialization in specific material handling technologies or customer segments.

• Development of strategic planning and business development skills through collaboration with Sales and System Solution Groups.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within engineering management and operations leadership. The emphasis on process improvement and cross-functional collaboration prepares individuals for broader operational strategy roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position based at the company's Memphis, Tennessee office. The environment likely includes a mix of office space for design work and team meetings, potentially with access to fabrication or R&D areas for context.

Office Location(s): 2163 Airways Blvd, Memphis, TN 38114. This location in Memphis provides access to a significant logistics hub.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office environment where engineers, designers, and drafters work together.

• Access to necessary design software (CAD, FEA) and office technology.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with Project Management and Field Operations teams to understand real-world installation and operational challenges.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, averaging around 45 hours per week.

• Requires flexibility to work nights and weekends as needed to meet project deadlines, emphasizing the operational urgency and commitment required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Memphis location is strategically significant for a company in the material handling industry, given the city's role as a major logistics and distribution hub. The work environment stresses collaboration and a hands-on approach to problem-solving, which is typical for engineering management roles directly supporting operational delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications and conduct a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the Director of Engineering or hiring manager to delve deeper into technical experience, leadership style, and project management capabilities.

• Team/Peer Interviews: Meetings with key engineers, designers, drafters, and potentially Project Managers or Field Operations representatives to evaluate collaborative skills and technical alignment.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their work samples, focusing on material handling projects, design processes, and leadership achievements.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic contributions and long-term vision for the engineering department.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or impact area. Clearly label each project with its scope, your role, and key outcomes.

• Content: Include examples of fabrication drawings, installation drawings, and system layouts. Showcase any process improvements you've implemented, quantifying the benefits (e.g., time saved, cost reduced, error reduction).

• Narrative: For each project, be prepared to tell a story: the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the measurable results. Highlight your leadership in guiding teams and collaborating with other departments.

• Relevance: Emphasize projects involving material handling systems, especially those aligning with FedEx, UPS, or Amazon standards if possible.

• Process Focus: Demonstrate your understanding of design workflows, quality control, and how you ensure designs are practical and cost-effective for fabrication and installation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical design challenges related to material handling systems, focusing on problem-solving methodologies, resource allocation, and stakeholder management.

• Prepare examples of how you've managed underperforming team members, resolved conflicts, or driven change within an engineering team.

• Think about how you would approach process improvement for a specific design task, such as optimizing the creation of installation drawings or improving cross-functional communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a critical step. Candidates should prepare to showcase not just technical drawings but also evidence of their management and process improvement capabilities. Highlighting specific achievements related to efficiency, cost savings, and on-time delivery will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in 2D and 3D CAD software is essential. Preference is given to Inventor, Revit, and AutoCAD. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience level and specific applications within these tools for material handling design.

• FEA Analysis Software: Experience with Finite Element Analysis software such as RISA 3D is a plus, useful for structural integrity and performance simulations of conveyor systems.

• MS Office Suite: Standard proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is expected for reporting, documentation, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• While direct CRM use might be limited, understanding how design specifications feed into sales processes (CRM) and project execution (project management software) is beneficial. Automation might refer to design tools or workflow automation within the engineering process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific mention of Inventor, Revit, AutoCAD, and RISA 3D indicates the technical depth required. Candidates should be ready to discuss their proficiency and how they leverage these tools for complex material handling designs and analyses.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Commitment to Mission, Vision, and Core Values: A strong alignment with the company's guiding principles is essential for all employees, particularly leadership.

• Customer Focus: A dedication to serving customers with high-quality designs and support, as indicated by the "heart to serve" requirement.

• Excellence in Execution: A drive for accuracy, efficiency, and on-time delivery in all engineering and design outputs.

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Valuing the contributions of each team member and fostering a collaborative environment for problem-solving and innovation.

• Continuous Improvement: A proactive approach to identifying and implementing enhancements in processes, tools, and designs.

Collaboration Style:

• The role necessitates a highly collaborative style, working closely with internal engineering teams, as well as external-facing departments like Sales, Project Management, and Field Operations.

• Open communication, active listening, and a willingness to share knowledge and provide constructive feedback are key.

• A proactive approach to stakeholder engagement to ensure alignment and address potential issues early in the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "heart to serve" and "friendly, professional, optimistic demeanor" suggests a company culture that prioritizes positive relationships and customer satisfaction, which is vital for a management role bridging engineering and operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing multiple project demands: Simultaneously managing the design needs of several large-scale material handling projects, each with unique specifications and deadlines.

• Maintaining high quality under pressure: Ensuring design accuracy and compliance while working within tight timelines and potential resource constraints.

• Integrating diverse team needs: Effectively leading and developing a team with varied skill sets and experience levels, fostering a cohesive and high-performing unit.

• Adapting to evolving customer specifications: Keeping abreast of and incorporating the latest design standards from major clients like FedEx, UPS, and Amazon, which can change frequently.

• Bridging design and operational realities: Ensuring designs are not only technically sound but also practical and cost-effective for fabrication and field installation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD/FEA Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized design and analysis software.

• Project Management Skills: Development through close collaboration with Project Management teams.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training or mentorship focused on enhancing management and leadership capabilities.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Attending events focused on material handling technology, logistics, and engineering best practices.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gaining deeper insights into sales processes, field operations challenges, and business development strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges in managing complex projects and diverse teams under pressure, but these challenges are directly linked to substantial growth opportunities in leadership and operational strategy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting priorities across multiple large-scale design projects. How did you prioritize and ensure all deadlines were met?" (Focus on prioritization, resource allocation, and communication strategies).

• "How do you ensure the designs produced by your team are not only technically sound but also cost-effective for fabrication and straightforward for installation in the field?" (Highlight process for design review, cost analysis, and collaboration with production/field teams).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Diversified Conveyors International, and why are you interested in this specific role?" (Research the company's projects, values, and market position. Connect your experience to their needs).

• "Describe your leadership style, particularly when managing engineers and designers. How do you motivate your team and support their professional growth?" (Provide specific examples of coaching, feedback, and team development).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Impactful Projects: Choose 2-3 material handling projects that best demonstrate your leadership, technical expertise, and impact on operational efficiency.

• Quantify Results: For each project, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., "Reduced fabrication time by 15%", "Improved installation efficiency by 10%", "Ensured compliance with X standard, avoiding potential delays").

• Showcase Process: Explain the design process you followed, including how you involved your team, conducted reviews, and collaborated with other departments. Highlight any process improvements you implemented.

• Be Concise and Clear: Focus on the key aspects of each project and be prepared for in-depth questions. Practice your delivery to ensure a smooth and confident presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who can demonstrate not only technical design proficiency but also strong leadership, process-thinking, and an understanding of how design directly impacts operational success in the material handling industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations and engineering management position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Paylocity recruiting portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience with material handling systems, conveyor design specifications (especially FedEx, UPS, Amazon), team leadership, and process improvement initiatives. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of design drawings (fabrication, installation, layouts), case studies of projects led, and documentation of any process enhancements you've implemented. Be ready to present these and discuss your role and the outcomes.

• Research the Company: Understand Diversified Conveyors International's products, services, and any recent news or projects to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that showcase your leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, particularly in an operations-support context.

⚠️ 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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