Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: DIRTT

Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / Industrial Design

Date Posted: 2026-04-27

Experience Level: Mid-Senior (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Conceptualize, design, and implement innovative product solutions that meet market needs and consumer preferences in the industrialized construction sector.

• Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, production, and product strategy, to ensure seamless product development from ideation to commercialization.

• Leverage Feature-Driven Development (FDD) and Agile methodologies to manage project timelines and deliver high-quality, manufacturable products.

• Develop detailed product designs using industry-standard 3D modeling software, focusing on functionality, aesthetics, user experience, and manufacturing standards.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Analyze market needs and consumer preferences to align new product development with DIRTT's strategic focus.

• Translate design briefs from internal teams and external partners into innovative and functional product concepts.

• Lead and participate in design charrettes, critiques, and collaborative sessions to foster creative problem-solving and refine design solutions.

• Generate detailed 2D/3D designs, sketches, and technical drawings, ensuring adherence to quality, functionality, ergonomics, codes, and acoustic standards.

• Design products with a strong emphasis on Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles to simplify production.

• Integrate Design for the Environment (DFE) considerations, focusing on material selection, sustainability, and lifecycle impacts.

• Oversee the creation and validation of prototypes and mock-ups, iterating on designs based on testing and feedback.

• Research and recommend appropriate materials and manufacturing processes aligned with product pricing, project budgets, and design requirements.

• Develop comprehensive design documentation, including specifications, assembly/installation instructions, and bills of materials (BOMs).

• Act as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for various internal and external stakeholder teams, providing solution support and design guidance.

• Maintain and refine existing product lines through continuous improvement and revision post-launch.

• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and design best practices to enhance design processes and outcomes.

• Provide peer mentorship, sharing knowledge, skills, and advice to support the growth of other designers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed indicate a mid-to-senior level Product Designer role with significant ownership and mentorship expectations. The emphasis on DFM, DFA, and DFE, alongside Agile/FDD methodologies, points towards a highly integrated product development process common in industrialized construction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree, diploma, or professional equivalent in Industrial Design, Product Design, Mechanical Design, or a related design discipline field.

Experience:

• 8+ years of progressive design experience in a product development, engineering, and manufacturing environment, with a strong preference for experience in industrial design settings.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in industry-standard 3D solid modeling software such as OneSpace, Solid Designer, Creo Elements Direct, SolidWorks, pro-E, AutoCAD 3D, Inventor, or similar tools.

• Strong understanding of core design principles, user-centered design methodologies, and human factors engineering.

• In-depth knowledge of materials science, manufacturing processes (including rapid prototyping), and current architectural/construction practices.

• Expertise in Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.

• Familiarity with Design for the Environment (DFE) principles and sustainable design practices.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.

• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively within a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience within the industrialized construction or modular building industry.

• Familiarity with DIRTT's specific product ecosystem and digital tools.

• Experience in product lifecycle management (PLM) systems.

• A portfolio that clearly demonstrates a progression of design ownership and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for proficiency in multiple 3D modeling software platforms suggests the need for adaptability and a broad technical skillset. The emphasis on DFM/DFA/DFE and Agile methodologies indicates a company that values efficiency, sustainability, and iterative development processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of product design projects, demonstrating end-to-end product development from concept ideation to final production.

• Projects should highlight the application of user-centered design principles and human factors engineering.

• Detailed case studies illustrating the design process, including problem definition, ideation, prototyping, testing, and final implementation.

• Evidence of applying Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Assembly (DFA), and Design for the Environment (DFE) principles in projects.

• Clear demonstration of proficiency in 3D modeling software and the ability to produce high-quality renderings and technical drawings.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrated ability to document design processes, including user research findings, design rationale, and material selection justifications.

• Experience in creating clear and concise assembly instructions, installation guides, and user manuals.

• Documentation of how Agile or FDD methodologies were applied to manage design workflows and timelines.

• Evidence of creating design specifications that meet quality, functionality, and regulatory standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Product Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. It must not only showcase aesthetic and functional design but also the rigorous process behind it, including manufacturability, sustainability, and user experience considerations. Demonstrating an understanding of documentation for production is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Product Designer with 5-10 years of experience in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, the estimated annual salary range is CAD $85,000 - $120,000. This estimate considers the specialized skills required, the company's industry sector, and the cost of living in Calgary.

Benefits:

• Competitive base salary.

• Variable pay (bonus) program, rewarding performance.

• Eligibility to participate in DIRTT’s Employee Share Purchase Plan, offering ownership and investment opportunities.

• On-site perks (for in-office roles): Continental breakfast, coffee, tea, soda, daily hot cafeteria lunch, and snacks.

• Comprehensive health benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Disability and insurance benefits: Short- and long-term disability, life insurance, dependent coverage, and voluntary options.

• Mental health and wellbeing support through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• A thorough and supportive onboarding program designed for success.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for similar roles in Calgary. The benefits package is extensive, highlighting DIRTT's commitment to employee well-being and engagement, with a strong emphasis on on-site amenities for employees working from the Calgary office.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Industrialized Construction / Building Products. DIRTT is a leader in creating highly customizable, prefabricated interior environments using a proprietary system of physical products and digital tools. The company operates within markets such as workplace, healthcare, education, and the public sector, emphasizing adaptability and performance in built environments.

Company Size: DIRTT is a publicly traded company with a significant employee base, indicating a structured yet agile operational environment. This size allows for both specialized roles and cross-functional collaboration opportunities.

Founded: DIRTT was founded with an entrepreneurial spirit, aiming to revolutionize construction through technology and innovative processes. This historical context suggests a culture that values hands-on contributions, continuous improvement, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely comprises individuals with diverse specializations in industrial design, mechanical engineering, and potentially user experience (UX).

• Reporting structure typically involves designers reporting to a Design Lead or Manager, with close collaboration with Product Managers, Engineering Leads, and potentially R&D departments.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis: Designs are informed by market data, consumer research, performance metrics, and feedback from installation and end-users.

• Workflow Planning: Agile and Feature-Driven Development (FDD) are employed to manage the design lifecycle, ensuring iterative progress and adaptability.

• Automation & Efficiency: The company's core offering is based on industrialized construction, implying a strong focus on process automation, digital tools, and efficiency in design and manufacturing.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: DIRTT's focus on "industrialized construction" and "total design freedom" suggests a culture that values innovation, precision, and customer-centric solutions. The entrepreneurial spirit mentioned implies an environment where initiative and hands-on contribution are highly valued.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Product Designer role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, requiring significant experience and the ability to take ownership of complex design challenges. It involves not only individual contribution but also the responsibility of mentoring junior designers, indicating a pathway towards leadership within the design function.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will likely report to a Design Manager or Director of Product Development. They will collaborate closely with Product Managers, Engineering teams, and Innovation Counsel, forming part of a broader product development ecosystem.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is direct and significant. Product Designers at DIRTT are instrumental in shaping the company's core offerings, influencing product performance, manufacturability, sustainability, and ultimately, customer satisfaction and market competitiveness. Their designs directly contribute to DIRTT's ability to deliver adaptable, high-performing interior environments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific product categories, materials, or advanced design technologies (e.g., parametric design, generative design).

• Leadership Development: Progression into senior design roles, team lead positions, or management roles, with increased responsibility for team mentorship and strategic design direction.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into related roles within Product Management, R&D, or even specialized areas like manufacturing process engineering or sustainability initiatives.

• Continuous Learning: Access to industry conferences, training programs, and internal knowledge-sharing sessions to stay current with design trends and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "growing and mentoring other designers" signifies a clear growth path towards leadership. The role's impact on core product offerings means that strong performance can lead to significant recognition and advancement opportunities within DIRTT.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site in Calgary, Alberta. DIRTT emphasizes a collaborative and hands-on approach, suggesting an office environment that supports teamwork, idea sharing, and physical prototyping.

Office Location(s): Calgary, Alberta, Canada. This location likely serves as a key hub for design, engineering, and potentially manufacturing operations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment likely includes dedicated areas for design charrettes, brainstorming sessions, and cross-functional team meetings, fostering an interactive design process.

• Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, AutoCAD 3D), potentially 3D printers, material sample libraries, and other prototyping tools.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with engineers, product managers, production specialists, and other designers, facilitating rapid feedback loops and integrated problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time professional role. The on-site nature promotes consistent team integration and access to resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement for this role in Calgary suggests a company culture that values in-person collaboration, spontaneous idea exchange, and direct access to the tools and resources necessary for hands-on product design and development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Technical Interview: Focused discussion on design principles, software proficiency, manufacturing knowledge, and problem-solving approaches. Expect questions about DFM/DFA/DFE.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, explaining your design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the impact of your work. This is a critical stage to showcase your capabilities.

• Cross-Functional/Team Interview: Meetings with potential colleagues from engineering, product management, or other design teams to evaluate collaboration style and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Discussion with hiring management to assess overall fit, leadership potential, and strategic thinking.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate the skills and experience required for this specific DIRTT role. Prioritize projects showcasing industrial design, DFM/DFA/DFE, and end-to-end product development.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process, key decisions, challenges, and the quantifiable outcomes or impact.

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Include high-quality renderings, technical drawings, and evidence of your 3D modeling skills. Explain your software of choice and why.

• Highlight Process: Detail your approach to user research, ideation, prototyping, and testing. Emphasize how you incorporated DFM/DFA/DFE principles.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, how you handled feedback, and how your work aligns with DIRTT's mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: Be prepared for a potential design challenge or case study, which might involve analyzing a product, suggesting improvements, or conceptualizing a new solution within DIRTT's domain. Focus on process and rationale.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would approach common product design challenges, such as cost constraints, material limitations, or user feedback integration.

• Mentorship Discussion: Be ready to discuss your approach to mentoring junior designers, including how you provide feedback and foster growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is the most critical component for a Product Designer role. Candidates should meticulously prepare to articulate their design process, decision-making, and the tangible results of their work, especially concerning manufacturability and user experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Solid Modeling Software: Proficiency required in tools such as OneSpace, Solid Designer, Creo Elements Direct, SolidWorks, pro-E, AutoCAD 3D, Inventor, or similar advanced CAD platforms.

• 2D Design Software: Tools like AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) for sketches, technical drawings, and presentation materials.

• Prototyping Tools: Experience with rapid prototyping techniques and technologies (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with product lifecycle management (PLM) systems for managing product data, documentation, and revisions.

• Understanding of how product designs integrate with ERP systems for BOM management and production planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific 3D modeling software highlights the technical demands of the role. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these tools in detail, including advanced functionalities and workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A commitment to pushing boundaries and developing novel solutions for interior environments.

• Collaboration: A hands-on, team-oriented approach where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated.

• Customer Focus: Designing solutions that meet the specific needs and preferences of clients across various sectors.

• Integrity & Respect: Fostering a workplace where individuals are treated with respect, and ethical practices guide all operations.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A drive to improve processes, reduce waste, and enhance the manufacturability and performance of products.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Designers work closely with engineers, product managers, and production teams, fostering a seamless flow of information and ideas.

• Open Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive critique and open dialogue to elevate the quality of design output.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of mentorship and the sharing of best practices to build collective expertise within the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: DIRTT's culture appears to be a blend of entrepreneurial drive and structured process, emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and a customer-centric approach. The "hands-on" ethos is a key differentiator.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Customization with Standardization: Designing highly customizable solutions within an industrialized construction framework requires finding elegant ways to offer variety while maintaining efficient production processes.

• Integrating New Technologies: Staying ahead of emerging design tools, materials, and manufacturing technologies and integrating them effectively into the product development cycle.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring that design decisions meet the diverse needs and constraints of engineering, production, sales, and installation teams.

• Sustainability Goals: Continuously advancing design for environmental impact, sourcing sustainable materials, and optimizing for reduced waste throughout the product lifecycle.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to master new features or complementary software within the design stack.

• Industry Certifications: Support for pursuing certifications related to sustainable design, specific manufacturing processes, or advanced CAD techniques.

• Product Line Expansion: Involvement in the development of new product lines or the enhancement of existing ones, offering exposure to different market segments and design challenges.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal or informal opportunities to mentor junior designers and learn from senior leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for innovative product development in a manufacturing context, requiring a proactive and adaptable mindset. The growth opportunities are geared towards skill enhancement and leadership within the design and product development domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex product design challenge you faced and how you applied DFM/DFA principles to overcome it." (Focus on process, problem-solving, and outcome.)

• "How do you approach user-centered design when balancing a client's specific needs with broad market applicability?" (Highlight user research methods and synthesis.)

• "Walk us through a project where you mentored a junior designer. What was your approach and the result?" (Demonstrate leadership and communication skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about DIRTT's approach to industrialized construction and product design?" (Research DIRTT's mission, values, and recent projects.)

• "How would you contribute to DIRTT's culture of innovation and collaboration?" (Connect your work style to their stated values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, follow a clear story arc: Problem -> Your Role -> Process -> Solution -> Impact.

• Quantify Results: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, user satisfaction scores).

• Focus on DFM/DFA/DFE: Explicitly call out how these principles were applied and the benefits they brought.

• Showcase Software Proficiency: Briefly discuss the tools used and why they were appropriate for the task.

• Engage Your Audience: Be enthusiastic, clear, and open to questions. Treat it as a collaborative discussion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize the candidate's ability to articulate their design process, demonstrate technical proficiency, and showcase how their work aligns with DIRTT's values and business objectives, particularly regarding innovation, efficiency, and customer solutions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the DIRTT careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects that best showcase industrial design, DFM/DFA/DFE principles, and end-to-end product development relevant to DIRTT's market.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience with 3D modeling software, product development methodologies (Agile/FDD), and any relevant manufacturing or construction industry experience. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, presenting your portfolio effectively, and preparing answers to strategy and behavioral questions, with a focus on DIRTT's culture and values.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research DIRTT's products, projects, market position, and company culture. Understand their unique approach to industrialized construction and how your design skills can contribute to their success.

⚠️ 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.