Junior Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Product Designer Company: Forms+Surfaces Inc Location: Glenshaw, Pennsylvania, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Product Design Operations / GTM Operations Date Posted: 2025-08-15 Experience Level: Junior (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for the product development lifecycle, focusing on conceptualizing, detailing, and prototyping innovative outdoor site furniture and lighting solutions.
• The Junior Product Designer will work closely with a cross-functional team, including engineers and a prototype team, to bring new product concepts from ideation to market-ready execution.
• Key contributions will involve leveraging design software and hands-on prototyping to drive innovation in public space design, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing processes and continuous improvement.
• Success in this position requires a blend of strong design skills, meticulous attention to detail, and effective communication to maintain design intent across all project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Junior Product Designer," the emphasis on collaboration with engineers, managing design intent to completion, and interest in manufacturing processes suggests a role that bridges traditional product design with operational execution and GTM readiness, making it relevant to operations professionals focused on product innovation and market launch.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, detail, and prototype outdoor site furniture and lighting products, aligning with market needs and company innovation standards.
• Collaborate closely with engineers and the prototype team to ensure design feasibility and successful product development from concept to completion.
• Utilize advanced CAD and digital design tools (SolidWorks, KeyShot, Adobe Creative Suite, potentially Rhino/Grasshopper) to create detailed designs, presentations, and technical drawings.
• Actively participate in the investigation and execution of new product concepts, demonstrating a compelling interest in manufacturing processes and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Translate sketch concept explorations into iterative design processes, ensuring rapid progression and refinement of product ideas.
• Maintain organized project documentation, including sketches, drawings, consultant information, and key project milestones, ensuring efficient workflow and knowledge management.
• Communicate and champion design intent effectively to a cross-functional team, ensuring alignment from initial ideation through final product delivery.
• Hands-on involvement in the prototyping shop, creating models and sketching prototypes to test and refine design concepts.
• Prioritize and manage workload effectively in a fast-paced environment, adapting to changing project needs and deadlines.
• Contribute a positive attitude and self-motivation to the team, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on the product development process, from ideation to tangible output, including collaboration and documentation. This aligns with GTM operations where product readiness and market introduction are key, and with design operations that focus on workflow efficiency and cross-functional alignment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Industrial Design Degree preferred, demonstrating a foundational understanding of design principles, user-centered design, and product development methodologies.

Experience:

• 2-4 years of relevant work experience in product design, with a focus on tangible product development and manufacturing.
• Demonstrated experience in developing conceptual designs into detailed presentations and technical drawings, showcasing a clear thought process and execution capability.

Required Skills:

• CAD & Digital Proficiency: Expert proficiency in SolidWorks, KeyShot, and Adobe Creative Suite is essential for detailed design, rendering, and presentation creation.
• Diverse Portfolio: A compelling portfolio showcasing a range of work with meticulous attention to detail, innovation, and a clear demonstration of the design process and problem-solving approaches.
• Manufacturing Interest: A strong and compelling interest in manufacturing processes and a commitment to continuous improvement within production environments.
• Conceptualization & Iteration: Ability to rapidly move through sketch concept exploration and iterative design processes, translating ideas into refined concepts.
• Cross-functional Communication: Excellent ability to communicate and maintain design intent to a cross-functional team, ensuring cohesive project execution.
• Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills for managing project documentation, sketches, drawings, and milestones effectively.
• Problem-Solving: Proven ability to approach design challenges with a problem-solving mindset, driving innovative solutions.
• Hands-on Prototyping: Comfort and skill in hands-on prototyping, including creating models and sketching prototypes in a workshop setting.

Preferred Skills:

• Rhino/Grasshopper: Proficiency in Rhino and Grasshopper is a plus, indicating advanced capabilities in parametric design and complex geometry.
• User-Centered Design: Experience applying user-centered design principles to product development for public spaces.
• Sustainability Focus: Familiarity with sustainable design practices and materials relevant to outdoor furniture and lighting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software (SolidWorks, KeyShot, Adobe Creative Suite, Rhino/Grasshopper) and the requirement for a portfolio demonstrating process and problem-solving are critical for operations roles that involve product development pipeline management and GTM readiness.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Documentation: Showcase a clear, step-by-step process for how design concepts are developed, from initial ideation and sketching through to detailed CAD modeling and prototyping.
• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Include specific examples of design challenges faced and the innovative solutions developed, demonstrating analytical skills and a structured approach to problem-solving.
• Technical Execution: Highlight projects that demonstrate proficiency in digital tools like SolidWorks and KeyShot, with examples of detailed renderings and technical drawings that convey design intent accurately.
• Iterative Design Examples: Present projects that illustrate an iterative design process, showing how feedback and testing led to design refinements and improvements.
• Manufacturing Consideration: Include projects where manufacturing processes and material selection were key considerations, demonstrating an understanding of DFM (Design for Manufacturing) principles.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Detail the typical workflow for a product design project within the portfolio, from concept brief to final design handover, including key decision points and review stages.
• System Integration: Show how design outputs are integrated into broader product development systems, such as engineering workflows, prototyping processes, and documentation management.
• Performance Metrics: Where possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback on the success of designed products, such as user satisfaction, manufacturing efficiency improvements, or market reception.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for design roles, and for operations, it serves as a tangible demonstration of process adherence, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to manage complex projects from conception to a tangible outcome, crucial for GTM operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $50,000 - $60,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with 401(k) matching contributions, offering a strong incentive for long-term financial planning.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive health insurance, dental insurance, and vision insurance to support employee well-being.
• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off (PTO) to encourage rest and rejuvenation, alongside an Employee Assistance Program for support during challenging times.
• Employee Engagement: Referral program to reward employees for bringing talent to the company, and retirement plan options beyond the 401(k).
• Life Insurance: Provided life insurance for added financial security for employees and their families.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time employment, typically around 40 hours per week, with the expectation of flexibility to manage workload in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is typical for a junior-level design role in the specified region. The benefits package is robust, indicating a company that invests in its employees' overall well-being and long-term financial health, which is a positive indicator for overall company stability and employee retention.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architectural Products Manufacturing, specializing in outdoor site furniture and lighting. Forms+Surfaces is a leader in designing products that enhance public spaces, known for innovation and sustainability. Company Size: Forms+Surfaces Inc. is a medium-sized company, likely employing between 50-250 individuals based on typical industry structures for specialized manufacturers. This size often allows for a balance of structured processes and a more intimate, collaborative team environment. Founded: The company's founding date is not explicitly stated in the input, but its established presence and focus on innovation suggest a company with a history of product development and market adaptation.

Team Structure:

• The Product Designer will be part of the Design+Development team, which is described as diverse and includes Industrial Designers, Textile Designers, Engineers, and a Prototype Team.
• Reporting directly to the Director of Product Development, the role involves close collaboration with engineers and the prototype team, indicating a project-based and cross-functional team structure.
• Collaboration extends beyond the design team to include cross-departmental professionals, emphasizing a holistic approach to product development and market introduction.

Methodology:

• The company's development process is fueled by a love for problem-solving and driven by collaboration, suggesting an agile and iterative approach.
• Emphasis is placed on experimentation and the investigation/execution of unique product concepts, indicating a culture that values pushing boundaries and innovation.
• A strong focus on sustainability and designing products that "enhance life in public spaces" underscores a mission-driven approach to product development.

Company Website: https://www.forms-surfaces.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be highly collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven, with a strong emphasis on product quality and unique market offerings. For operations professionals, this means an environment that values process but also encourages creative problem-solving and cross-functional teamwork.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as "Junior," typically indicating 2-5 years of experience. It provides a foundational understanding of the product development lifecycle within a manufacturing context, bridging design and production. Reporting Structure: The Junior Product Designer reports to the Director of Product Development. This structure offers direct mentorship and exposure to strategic product decisions and team leadership. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the company's product pipeline and market differentiation by contributing to the design and development of innovative outdoor site furniture and lighting. Successful product launches driven by this role contribute to revenue generation and brand reputation in the architectural products market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in industrial design, CAD software (SolidWorks, KeyShot, Rhino/Grasshopper), and manufacturing processes, potentially specializing in outdoor products.
• Career Progression: Potential to advance to a Product Designer, Senior Product Designer, or even a Product Development Manager role, leading projects and teams.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience working across various departments (engineering, prototyping, marketing, sales), understanding the full GTM process and operational nuances.
• Leadership Potential: Develop leadership skills by owning design intent and collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams, preparing for future leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Junior" designation, coupled with the reporting structure and focus on core product development processes, positions this role as an excellent entry point for individuals aiming for a career in product operations or GTM strategy within a manufacturing environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Glenshaw, PA, indicating a traditional office and potentially studio/workshop environment. Office Location(s): The primary location is Glenshaw, PA (15116). The description also mentions frequent travel across different F+S facilities and architectural offices, suggesting a distributed operational footprint.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Studio: The Design+Development team environment is described as diverse and fueled by collaboration, suggesting an open studio layout or shared workspace to encourage interaction.
• Prototyping Shop Access: Direct access to a prototyping shop is highlighted, providing a hands-on workspace for model making and testing, crucial for rapid iteration.
• Tool Availability: Expect access to necessary design software and potentially physical tools and materials for prototyping.
• Cross-functional Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with engineers, prototype teams, and other departments to foster communication and shared understanding.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week). The expectation for frequent travel implies a need for flexibility in scheduling to accommodate site visits and meetings at various company locations or with external partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and mention of travel suggest a dynamic work environment where in-person collaboration and hands-on work are valued, typical for manufacturing and product development operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the resume and portfolio to assess foundational skills and experience.
• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: Expect a detailed review of the portfolio, potentially with a specific design challenge or case study presentation focusing on process, problem-solving, and technical execution.
• Team/Manager Interviews: Interviews with the Director of Product Development and potentially other team members (engineers, designers) to evaluate technical skills, collaboration style, and cultural fit.
• Final Assessment: May involve a discussion about career aspirations, understanding of manufacturing, and how the candidate can contribute to the company's innovative product development.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Process-Oriented: Clearly articulate your design process for each project, from ideation through to final execution, highlighting how you approached challenges and iterated designs.
• Problem/Solution Focus: For each project, clearly define the problem you were solving and present the innovative solutions you developed, supported by visual evidence.
• Technical Proficiency Showcase: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates strong skills in SolidWorks, KeyShot, and Adobe Creative Suite through high-quality renderings, detailed drawings, and interactive prototypes if available.
• Hands-on & Iterative: Include examples of physical prototypes or models you've created, and explain the iterative process that informed their development.
• Manufacturing Awareness: If possible, showcase projects where you considered manufacturing constraints or processes, demonstrating an understanding of DFM.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Thinking: Be prepared to discuss your approach to problem-solving using design thinking principles.
• Software Proficiency: Practice demonstrating your workflow in key software tools if asked.
• Collaboration Scenarios: Think about how you communicate design intent to non-design stakeholders and resolve design conflicts.
• Company Research: Understand Forms+Surfaces' product lines and design philosophy to tailor your responses and portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio review and potential design challenges underscores the practical, hands-on nature of this role. Operations professionals should highlight their ability to manage processes, document progress, and communicate effectively, mirroring the requirements of GTM and product operations roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: SolidWorks (essential), Rhino/Grasshopper (preferred). These are critical for 3D modeling, detailed design, and technical documentation.
• Rendering Software: KeyShot. Used for creating high-quality product visualizations for presentations and marketing.
• Design Suite: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign). Essential for concept sketching, graphic design, presentation development, and documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated, expect to use project management tools for tracking milestones and progress. Design outputs will feed into engineering and production reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design outputs integrate with ERP or PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in these specific design tools is paramount. For operations roles, understanding how these tools integrate into a broader product development and GTM workflow is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Differentiation: A strong emphasis on creating unique products that no one else brings to market, valuing creative problem-solving and pushing design boundaries.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A culture driven by collaboration, essential for working effectively within the diverse Design+Development team and across other departments.
• Quality & Detail: Insistence on high-quality work with a great focus on detail, reflecting the company's commitment to exceptional product design and manufacturing.
• Continuous Improvement: A compelling interest in manufacturing processes and continuous improvement, indicating a proactive approach to optimizing workflows and product quality.
• Problem Solving: A core value embedded in the team's DNA, with a shared love for tackling challenges and finding innovative solutions.
• Self-Motivation & Growth: An expectation for employees to be self-motivated, with a focus on personal growth and development within the company.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect close collaboration with engineers, prototype specialists, and other departments to ensure seamless product development from concept to market.
• Design Intent Communication: A critical aspect of collaboration is maintaining and communicating design intent effectively to ensure all team members are aligned.
• Feedback Exchange: An environment likely conducive to constructive feedback and iterative design discussions to refine product concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a blend of creative innovation and rigorous execution, supported by strong teamwork. This operational ethos is crucial for successful product launches and market adoption.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Manufacturing Constraints: The primary challenge will be to develop innovative designs that are also feasible and cost-effective to manufacture, requiring a keen understanding of materials and production processes.
• Rapid Iteration in a Fast-Paced Environment: Juggling multiple tasks and rapidly moving through sketch concept exploration and iterative processes requires strong time management and prioritization skills.
• Maintaining Design Intent Across Teams: Effectively communicating and maintaining the integrity of the design vision across a cross-functional team from concept to completion can be complex.
• Adapting to Evolving Public Space Needs: Designing products that meet the dynamic and evolving requirements of public spaces and landscape architects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Skills: Opportunity to master advanced features in SolidWorks, KeyShot, and potentially explore parametric design with Rhino/Grasshopper.
• Manufacturing Process Immersion: Gain hands-on experience and deep knowledge of manufacturing processes relevant to architectural products.
• Product Lifecycle Management: Understand the entire product lifecycle, from ideation and design to production, marketing, and sales, which is invaluable for operations careers.
• Industry Exposure: Learn from experienced industrial designers, engineers, and prototype specialists, and potentially gain exposure to client interactions with architects and landscape designers.

📝 Enhancement Note: These challenges and opportunities are common in product development roles and provide excellent learning experiences for aspiring operations professionals interested in the product GTM lifecycle.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process & Problem Solving: "Describe your design process for a challenging product you worked on. How did you approach problem-solving, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on demonstrating your structured approach, iterative steps, and problem-solving mindset.)
• Collaboration & Communication: "How do you ensure your design intent is clearly communicated and maintained throughout a project with engineers and manufacturing teams?" (Highlight your communication skills, how you handle feedback, and your ability to advocate for design vision.)
• Technical Skills & Tools: "Walk me through a project where you heavily utilized SolidWorks and KeyShot. What were the key features you leveraged, and how did they contribute to the final design?" (Be ready to discuss specific software functionalities and their application.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Alignment: "What interests you about Forms+Surfaces and our focus on enhancing public spaces with innovative products?" (Showcase research into the company's mission, products, and design philosophy.)
• Team Dynamics: "How do you contribute to a collaborative and positive team environment, especially when working on fast-paced projects?" (Emphasize your teamwork, positive attitude, and self-motivation.)
• Impact & Improvement: "Can you give an example of how you've contributed to process improvement or efficiency in a past role, perhaps related to manufacturing or design workflows?" (Connect your skills to operational efficiency and continuous improvement.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Flow: Structure your portfolio presentation around a compelling narrative for each project, detailing the context, problem, process, solution, and outcome.
• Visual Emphasis: Use high-quality visuals (renderings, CAD models, sketches, photos of prototypes) to showcase your design skills and the evolution of your ideas.
• Process Demonstration: Clearly articulate the steps you took, the tools you used, and the decisions you made at each stage.
• Problem/Solution Focus: For each project, explicitly state the problem you addressed and how your design effectively solved it.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a defined timeframe, focusing on the most impactful and relevant work for the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for these types of questions will help candidates demonstrate not only their design capabilities but also their understanding of process, collaboration, and operational impact, which are key in GTM and product operations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Junior Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided JazzHR link: https://formssurfaces.applytojob.com/apply/2JTekWPwUE/Junior-Product-Designer
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects that demonstrate proficiency in SolidWorks, KeyShot, and Adobe Creative Suite, with a focus on process documentation and problem-solving. Select 2-3 key projects that best represent your skills relevant to outdoor site furniture and lighting.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 2-4 years of relevant experience, emphasizing your CAD skills, prototyping experience, and any contributions to product development processes or continuous improvement initiatives. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your design process, problem-solving methodologies, and how you collaborate with cross-functional teams. Prepare specific examples for common interview questions related to your technical skills and project management.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Forms+Surfaces, their product lines, target markets (architects, landscape designers), and their emphasis on innovation and sustainability. Understand their design ethos to articulate your fit during interviews.

⚠️ 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.