Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer Company: Bulk Handling Systems Location: Eugene, Oregon, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Product Design / Engineering Operations Date Posted: September 18, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the detailed design and documentation of recycling equipment, ensuring functional and structural integrity through precise working drawings and specifications.
• The Product Designer will be instrumental in translating engineering concepts into tangible manufacturing blueprints, utilizing advanced 3D modeling software.
• Collaboration with project engineers and the design engineering team is a core aspect, requiring strong communication and problem-solving skills to refine designs and address production challenges.
• Responsibilities extend to ensuring designs adhere to established industry standards and safety regulations, particularly within the industrial equipment and fabrication sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Product Designer," the responsibilities and required skills align closely with a "Mechanical Designer" or "Drafting Engineer" role within an industrial equipment manufacturing context. The emphasis on working drawings, specifications, and assembly details points towards a hands-on design and documentation function rather than a user-experience-focused product design role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed working drawings of recycling equipment, including precise dimensions, fastening methods, and other essential design information for new systems and retrofits.
• Assemble and lay out components, screens, and structures, ensuring adherence to established engineering standards and project specifications.
• Coordinate effectively with project engineers and fellow design engineers to resolve design-related issues and optimize equipment functionality.
• Modify and revise existing designs to rectify operating deficiencies, improve manufacturability, or address production challenges identified during fabrication or assembly.
• Compute mathematical formulas and utilize 3D modeling software to develop and detail precise specifications for machine components, assemblies, systems, and entire machines.
• Review equipment design requirements, applying standard component designs and sound engineering principles to produce comprehensive equipment drawings.
• Create clear and accurate assembly drawings, incorporating necessary details, assembly instructions, and critical design comments for manufacturing and assembly teams.
• Verify the structural integrity of designs through appropriate material selection and analysis, ensuring durability and safety.
• Perform other assigned duties as required to support the engineering and product development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize the creation of technical documentation and the practical application of design principles in a manufacturing environment. Key operations-related aspects include ensuring manufacturability, adherence to standards, and problem-solving during the design and assembly phases, which are critical for efficient production workflows.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum of an Associate's Degree in Design/Drafting, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a closely related field.
• An equivalent combination of education and relevant industry experience will also be considered.

Experience:

• A minimum of 2-5 years of demonstrated experience in machinery design and/or fabrication is required.
• Proven experience working with and designing using 3D modeling software is essential.

Required Skills:

• 3D Modeling Software Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise in utilizing 3D modeling tools for design and layout (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, CATIA, or similar).
• Machinery Design Principles: Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles as applied to the design of industrial machinery.
• Fabrication Knowledge: Familiarity with fabrication processes, materials, and their implications on design choices.
• Design Drawings & Specifications: Ability to create detailed, accurate, and comprehensive design drawings and technical specifications for manufacturing.
• Assembly Drawing Creation: Skill in producing clear and instructive assembly drawings that facilitate efficient production and assembly.
• Mathematical Calculation: Competency in computing mathematical formulas for design calculations and dimensioning.
• Engineering Principles Application: Ability to apply standard engineering principles and best practices in design work.
• Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to clearly articulate technical ideas to diverse audiences.
• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively within a collaborative team environment, coordinating with engineers and other stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying and resolving design and production issues efficiently.

Preferred Skills:

• AutoDesk Inventor Experience: Prior experience with AutoDesk Inventor is a significant advantage.
• Industrial Equipment Design: In-depth knowledge of industrial equipment design best practices.
• Safety Regulations: Familiarity with industrial safety regulations and their integration into equipment design.
• Structural Integrity Analysis: Basic understanding of verifying structural integrity based on material selection.
• Self-Motivation & Organization: Highly organized and self-motivated individual capable of working independently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on 3D modeling software, machinery design, and fabrication clearly positions this role within a product development and manufacturing operations context. The required skills are directly applicable to ensuring the efficient and accurate creation of physical products.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating your experience with 3D modeling software in machinery design projects.
• Include examples of working drawings, assembly drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) that highlight your attention to detail and adherence to standards.
• Present projects where you were responsible for designing components or assemblies from concept to detailed documentation.
• Demonstrate your ability to interpret engineering requirements and translate them into precise manufacturing-ready drawings.
• Highlight any projects where you contributed to design modifications for improved manufacturability or resolved production issues.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how you document design processes, including version control and drawing management practices.
• Showcase your approach to ensuring design accuracy and compliance with engineering standards and specifications.
• If possible, include documentation related to material selection considerations and their impact on structural integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design role like this, a portfolio is crucial. It serves as tangible evidence of process adherence, technical skill, and the ability to produce documentation that directly impacts manufacturing operations. The focus should be on clarity, accuracy, and the practical application of design principles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a Mid-Level Product Designer/Mechanical Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Eugene, Oregon, the estimated salary range is $65,000 - $85,000 annually.
• This estimate considers the cost of living in Eugene, the demand for skilled design professionals in manufacturing, and the specific technical requirements of the role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance coverage for employees and their families.
• Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company matching contributions.
• Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training on new software and industry best practices.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.
• Life and Disability Insurance coverage.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours for this role are approximately 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time position.
• While the role is on-site, there may be some flexibility in start and end times, subject to team coordination and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn Salary for similar roles in the specified region. Benefits are typical for a full-time position in the manufacturing/engineering sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Bulk Handling Systems operates within the industrial equipment manufacturing sector, specializing in advanced recycling systems. This means the company is at the forefront of environmental technology and engineering for waste management solutions. Company Size: Bulk Handling Systems is part of a larger organization, suggesting a structured environment with established processes, but potentially with the agility of a specialized division. The exact size of the immediate design engineering team is not specified but would likely be moderate, fostering close collaboration among members. Founded: Founded in 1991, Bulk Handling Systems has a long-standing history and significant experience in its field, indicating a stable company with deep expertise in designing and implementing complex material processing and recycling solutions.

Team Structure:

• The Product Designer will report to the Product Engineering Manager, indicating a clear line of management and project oversight.
• The team likely consists of other design engineers, project engineers, and potentially CAD technicians, forming a core engineering group responsible for product development and customization.
• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with project management, fabrication, assembly, and potentially sales/customer support teams to ensure designs meet project requirements and client needs.

Methodology:

• Design processes will likely involve a structured approach to concept development, detailed design using CAD, review cycles, and documentation for manufacturing.
• Data analysis may be involved in material selection, stress calculations, and performance optimization of equipment.
• Workflow planning and optimization will be crucial for efficient design-to-production handoffs.
• Automation might be present in the form of CAD software features or potential integration with manufacturing execution systems (MES) down the line.

Company Website: www.bulkhandlingsystems.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the company's industry and history is key for a designer. BHS's focus on recycling equipment implies a need for robust, durable designs that can handle demanding operational environments. The team structure suggests opportunities for learning from experienced engineers and contributing to impactful projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-Level within the product design and engineering operations function. It requires a solid foundation in design principles and software, with the expectation of independent work on specific components and systems, while also contributing to larger project goals. Reporting Structure: The Product Designer reports directly to the Product Engineering Manager. This structure allows for clear guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback, creating a direct pathway for project assignment and skill development. Operations Impact: The designs created by this role have a direct impact on the functionality, efficiency, and manufacturability of Bulk Handling Systems' recycling equipment. Accurate and well-thought-out designs are crucial for reducing production errors, improving equipment performance in the field, and ultimately contributing to the company's reputation and profitability in the waste management industry.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific types of recycling equipment (e.g., screens, conveyors, shredders) or advanced design techniques.
• Project Leadership: Potential to lead design efforts for smaller components or specific system retrofits as experience grows.
• Advanced Software Training: Access to training for more sophisticated CAD/CAM software, simulation tools, or PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Opportunities to gain understanding of fabrication, assembly processes, and project management by collaborating closely with those teams.
• Career Progression: Potential career paths could lead to Senior Product Designer, Lead Mechanical Designer, Project Engineer, or Engineering Management roles within Bulk Handling Systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation in industrial equipment design, providing a clear trajectory for growth within a specialized engineering field. Success in this position can lead to increased responsibility and specialization in areas critical to manufacturing operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site, indicating a traditional office setting within Bulk Handling Systems' facilities in Eugene, Oregon. This environment is likely equipped with workstations for CAD design, meeting rooms for team collaboration, and access to fabrication and assembly areas for practical understanding. Office Location(s): Eugene, Oregon. This location offers a balance between a mid-sized city environment and proximity to the natural resources of the Pacific Northwest.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be equipped with the necessary CAD software and hardware for design tasks.
• Expect a collaborative environment where designers interact regularly with project engineers and potentially visit the shop floor to observe and understand fabrication and assembly processes.
• Access to subject matter experts within the engineering team will be readily available for consultation and problem-solving.
• The environment likely encourages a methodical approach to design, with an emphasis on precision and documentation.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday.
• While the core hours are expected, there might be some flexibility in daily start and end times, provided it aligns with team needs and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is beneficial for designers, as it allows for direct observation of how their designs are manufactured and assembled, fostering a deeper understanding of practical constraints and opportunities for design optimization in real-world operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your resume and career aspirations.
• Technical Interview: This will likely involve a discussion with the Product Engineering Manager and possibly a senior designer. Expect questions about your experience with 3D modeling software, machinery design principles, and problem-solving approaches. You may be asked to walk through specific projects from your portfolio.
• Skills Assessment/Portfolio Review: You will be asked to present and discuss your design portfolio. Focus on showcasing projects that demonstrate your proficiency in CAD, your understanding of manufacturing processes, and your ability to create detailed, error-free documentation. Be ready to explain your design choices, challenges faced, and solutions implemented.
• Meet the Team/Final Interview: Potentially an opportunity to meet other members of the engineering team to assess team fit and discuss broader project involvement. This stage may also involve a final discussion with management.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 of your strongest projects that best represent the skills required for this role (machinery design, 3D modeling, detailed drawings).
• Showcase Process: For each project, explain the problem statement, your design process, the tools used, key design decisions, and the final outcome. Emphasize any improvements in efficiency, manufacturability, or performance.
• Highlight Documentation: Clearly present examples of your working drawings, assembly drawings, and specifications. Point out the level of detail, dimensioning practices, and adherence to standards.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, quantify the impact of your designs (e.g., reduced assembly time, improved material yield, increased equipment uptime).
• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, material selection, and any challenges you encountered during the design or fabrication phases.

Challenge Preparation:

• Some companies may include a small design exercise or a problem-solving scenario. Be prepared to think critically and articulate your approach to a given design challenge, focusing on practical application and adherence to design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for design roles. It's your primary tool for demonstrating technical competence and practical application of design skills. Tailor your portfolio presentation to directly address the requirements of the Product Designer role at Bulk Handling Systems.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling Software: Proficiency in at least one major 3D CAD package is essential. Given the preference, AutoDesk Inventor is highly desirable. Other relevant software includes SolidWorks, CATIA, or Siemens NX.
• 2D Drafting Software: Experience with 2D CAD tools like AutoCAD for creating detailed fabrication drawings or schematics.
• Product Data Management (PDM) / Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing design revisions, document control, and BOMs is a plus.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus, basic data analysis skills might be needed for material selection or performance calculations.
• Experience with spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel for data organization and calculations.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design data integrates into ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems for manufacturing and inventory management is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is mastery of 3D modeling software, specifically with a preference for Autodesk Inventor. This directly impacts the efficiency and accuracy of the design process in a manufacturing environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision and Accuracy: A strong emphasis on detail in all design work, ensuring drawings are correct and unambiguous for manufacturing.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Working effectively with engineers, project managers, and shop floor personnel to achieve project goals.
• Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving design and manufacturing challenges.
• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to refining designs for better performance, efficiency, and manufacturability.
• Adherence to Standards: Respect for and application of established company and industry design standards and safety regulations.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a collaborative environment where ideas are shared openly, and feedback is provided constructively among design engineers and with project management.
• Regular design reviews and team meetings will be common to ensure alignment and address potential issues early in the design cycle.
• The role requires clear communication with fabrication and assembly teams to ensure designs are understood and accurately executed on the shop floor.

📝 Enhancement Note: A culture that values precision and collaboration is critical for a design engineering team. Understanding these values will help candidates tailor their responses during interviews and demonstrate their fit with the company's operational ethos.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Complexity with Manufacturability: Creating innovative designs while ensuring they can be efficiently and cost-effectively manufactured with available resources.
• Managing Design Revisions: Effectively incorporating feedback and making necessary changes to designs while maintaining documentation integrity.
• Interfacing with Diverse Stakeholders: Communicating technical details clearly to individuals with varying levels of technical understanding (e.g., project managers, sales, shop floor operators).
• Keeping Pace with Technology: Continuously learning and adapting to new design software features, materials, and manufacturing techniques.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD Training: Opportunities to become an expert user of Autodesk Inventor or explore other advanced design software.
• Industry Certifications: Potential to pursue certifications related to CAD, mechanical design, or specific manufacturing technologies.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced design engineers and the Product Engineering Manager.
• Exposure to Project Lifecycle: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the entire product development and manufacturing lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Facing and overcoming design challenges is a natural part of engineering. This role offers ample opportunities to develop problem-solving skills and deepen technical expertise within the industrial equipment sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex piece of machinery you designed. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your design process, problem-solving, and technical detail).
• "How do you ensure your drawings are accurate and suitable for manufacturing?" (Discuss your use of standards, dimensioning techniques, and review processes).
• "Walk me through a project from your portfolio where you had to make significant design modifications. What was the reason, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your adaptability, problem-solving, and communication skills).
• "How do you collaborate with project engineers or fabrication teams when designing equipment?" (Emphasize communication, feedback loops, and understanding operational constraints).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Bulk Handling Systems and our work in the recycling industry?" (Research the company's mission, projects, and values).
• "How do you stay updated on new design software and manufacturing technologies?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning).
• "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a collaborative atmosphere?" (Align your response with the company's likely values of precision and teamwork).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview, then dive into 2-3 key projects. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the design process, key technical solutions, and the final outcome.
• Visuals: Use clear, high-quality renderings or screenshots of your 3D models and detailed drawings. Highlight specific areas that demonstrate your skills.
• Narrative: Tell a story for each project – what was the problem, how did you solve it, and what was the result? Focus on the impact of your design work.
• Technical Depth: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design choices, materials, tolerances, and manufacturing considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples and structuring your portfolio presentation around the company's needs will significantly increase your chances of success. Demonstrating how your design process contributes to efficient manufacturing operations is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your resume and a compelling cover letter through the Bulk Handling Systems careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects demonstrating machinery design, 3D modeling proficiency (especially with Inventor if applicable), and detailed technical documentation (drawings, BOMs).
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with machinery design, fabrication, CAD software, and any contributions to process improvement or problem-solving in design. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of your work using specific examples from your portfolio. Be ready to discuss your familiarity with industrial equipment and safety standards.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Bulk Handling Systems' products, projects, and mission. Understand their role in the recycling industry to better align your interest and demonstrate your fit with their operations and culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.