Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer Company: Price Industries Limited Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Job Type: Full-time Category: Product Design / Engineering Operations Date Posted: August 18, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearheads the design and development of innovative noise control products, translating conceptual ideas into tangible manufacturing blueprints.
• Drives product lifecycle management from initial concept through to detailed manufacturing specifications, ensuring seamless integration into production workflows.
• Facilitates cross-functional collaboration to identify and resolve design challenges, optimizing for manufacturability and cost-efficiency.
• Leverages advanced 3D CAD software and engineering principles to create precise product designs and technical documentation.
• Plays a key role in the product development process, ensuring designs meet stringent quality, performance, and cost targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Product Designer," the responsibilities indicate a strong engineering focus, particularly in mechanical design and manufacturing integration. This role sits at the intersection of product development and manufacturing operations, requiring a blend of design acumen and an understanding of production processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design noise control products, guiding them from initial concept submittal to detailed manufacturing specifications.
• Support the broader product development process by ensuring designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and meet performance requirements.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineering, manufacturing, and sales, to address design challenges and implement improvements.
• Utilize advanced 3D CAD software (SOLIDWORKS, SOLIDEDGE, AUTOCAD) for creating detailed designs, technical drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).
• Provide technical assistance to the production team to resolve manufacturing issues and optimize production processes.
• Conduct material estimates for new and custom projects, coordinating with the Purchasing department for timely material procurement.
• Partner with the Applications Engineering team to develop custom product solutions tailored to specific customer requirements.
• Ensure design documentation is accurate, complete, and readily available for all stakeholders involved in the product lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to product design within a manufacturing environment. Emphasis on "manufacturability," "cost efficiency," and "assisting production" suggests a need for practical design skills and an understanding of production constraints, common in GTM and operational efficiency roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Mechanical Engineering or equivalent) is required, providing a foundational understanding of engineering principles and practices.

Experience: 0-2 years of relevant experience in product design, mechanical engineering, or a related field. This entry-level positioning suggests a focus on learning and development within the role.

Required Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple design projects and documentation concurrently.
• Proficient problem-solving abilities to identify and resolve design and manufacturing challenges.
• Self-motivated with the capacity to work independently and effectively within a team environment.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SOLIDWORKS, SOLIDEDGE, AUTOCAD) for design creation and modification.
• Competency in MS Office applications for reporting, documentation, and project management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in sheet metal manufacturing processes, offering practical insights into production capabilities.
• Familiarity with the HVAC industry, providing context for product application and market needs.
• Knowledge of product development processes, including stage-gate reviews and design validation.
• Understanding of "design for manufacturability" (DFM) concepts to optimize designs for efficient production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 0-2 years of experience, coupled with the emphasis on CAD proficiency and engineering fundamentals, positions this as an ideal role for recent engineering graduates looking to gain practical experience in product development and manufacturing operations. The preferred skills in sheet metal and HVAC are highly relevant for a manufacturing company in this sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 diverse design projects, preferably demonstrating a progression from concept to a manufacturable design.
• Highlight projects involving 3D CAD modeling and technical drawing creation, emphasizing precision and adherence to design standards.
• Include examples that illustrate problem-solving in design, such as overcoming manufacturing constraints or improving product performance.
• Demonstrate an understanding of material selection and its impact on cost and manufacturability, particularly with sheet metal.
• Present projects that required collaboration with cross-functional teams or external stakeholders, showcasing communication and teamwork skills.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal design process, from initial ideation and research to detailed design and documentation.
• Familiarity with version control for design files and documentation is beneficial, reflecting a structured approach to product development.
• Ability to articulate how design decisions are made with consideration for manufacturability, cost, and customer requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, a formal "process portfolio" might not be strictly required, but candidates are expected to present relevant design work that demonstrates their capabilities. The focus will be on their approach to design, problem-solving, and understanding of manufacturing principles, which are core to operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for an Entry-Level Product Designer in Winnipeg, MB, Canada, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is CAD $55,000 - $70,000. This range accounts for the cost of living in Winnipeg and the specific technical skills required.

Benefits:

• Health and Dental: Comprehensive coverage for medical and dental expenses for employees and their families.
• Telus Health Virtual Care: Free access to virtual medical professionals for advice and second opinions.
• PocketPills: Free access to Canada's first digital pharmacy for prescription and vitamin delivery.
• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP): Confidential support for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided life insurance with options for additional coverage.
• Pension Matching Program: Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching contributions up to 3% of salary.
• Gym Subsidy Program: Annual reimbursement of up to $300 for gym memberships or fitness-related apps.
• Personal and Professional Development: Commitment to employee growth through training and education opportunities.
• Community Involvement: Opportunities to participate in company-supported community initiatives.
• On-site Amenities: Access to the "Price Café" with complimentary tea and coffee.
• Team Rewards: Qualifying teams can enjoy monthly rewards as part of the Goals, Rewards, Improvement and Teamwork program.

Working Hours: The role is structured around a standard full-time work schedule, likely around 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime during peak project periods. The company culture emphasizes personal and professional development, suggesting a supportive environment for work-life balance within a typical business day.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical entry-level engineering roles in the Winnipeg market, considering the company's industry and the specific technical skills required. The extensive benefits package highlights Price Industries Limited's commitment to employee well-being and long-term engagement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Price Industries Limited operates within the manufacturing sector, specializing in air distribution, critical controls, and noise control products for the HVAC industry. This industry context implies a focus on engineering excellence, product quality, and efficient production processes.

Company Size: As North America's leading manufacturer and distributor in its niche, Price Industries Limited is a well-established, privately held family company with a significant operational footprint and employee base. This size suggests a stable environment with opportunities for growth and impact, balanced with the personalized touch of a family-owned business.

Founded: Founded over 60 years ago, Price Industries Limited has a deep heritage built on principles of business integrity, first-class service, innovation, and a strong commitment to its people. This long history indicates a stable and reputable organization with a proven track record of success and a culture that values long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely operates within a broader Engineering or Product Development department.
• Designers will report to a Design Manager or Engineering Lead, with potential for interaction with Project Managers and manufacturing leads.
• Collaboration is expected with cross-functional departments such as Sales, Applications Engineering, Manufacturing, and Purchasing.

Methodology:

• Designs are developed with a strong emphasis on manufacturability, cost-efficiency, and meeting customer specifications, reflecting a practical, results-oriented approach.
• Data-driven decision-making is likely employed, utilizing CAD analysis and performance metrics to inform design choices.
• Continuous improvement and innovation are core tenets, encouraging the exploration of new materials, technologies, and design techniques.

Company Website: www.priceindustries.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and family ownership suggest a culture that values stability, loyalty, and employee development. The emphasis on innovation and service implies a dynamic environment where operational efficiency and customer satisfaction are paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the entry-level (0-2 years of experience) within the product design and engineering operations spectrum. It serves as a foundational step for individuals looking to build a career in product development, mechanical design, and manufacturing engineering.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will likely report to a Senior Designer, Engineering Lead, or a Manager within the Product Development or Engineering department. This structure provides direct mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's work directly impacts the company's operational efficiency and market competitiveness by ensuring products are designed for optimal manufacturability, cost control, and performance. Successful designs contribute to streamlined production, reduced waste, and enhanced customer satisfaction, all critical operational metrics.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like sheet metal design, acoustics, CAD software mastery, or design for manufacturability (DFM).
• Career Progression: Potential to advance to roles such as Senior Product Designer, Lead Design Engineer, or even into management positions within the engineering or product development functions.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience by working closely with manufacturing, sales, and applications engineering teams, broadening understanding of the entire product lifecycle and business operations.
• Continuous Learning: Access to personal and professional development programs, training, and educational support to stay current with industry advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level position, the growth trajectory is clear: developing technical proficiency and gaining practical experience within the manufacturing and product development lifecycle. The company's commitment to development suggests a supportive environment for skill acquisition and career advancement within operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site at Price Industries Limited's facilities in Winnipeg. This environment will likely include a blend of office space for design work and potential exposure to manufacturing floor operations for troubleshooting and collaboration.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. This location offers a stable business environment and access to a skilled workforce.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be equipped with standard office amenities and the necessary CAD software and hardware for design tasks.
• Collaboration will be a key aspect, with opportunities to interact with design colleagues, engineers, and manufacturing personnel.
• The environment is expected to foster a culture of innovation, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality in design and production.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is full-time, aligning with typical business hours. While specific flexibility details are not provided, the company's emphasis on personal development suggests a supportive approach to work-life balance within the standard operational framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for roles requiring direct interaction with manufacturing processes and teams. This allows for immediate feedback loops and hands-on problem-solving, which are crucial for a product designer in a manufacturing setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will review applications and resumes to assess qualifications and experience against job requirements.
• Technical Interview: Candidates will likely undergo an interview focused on technical skills, including CAD proficiency, understanding of design principles, and knowledge of manufacturing processes. This may involve technical questions or a review of past design work.
• Portfolio Review & Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a selection of their design work, explaining their process, design choices, and the outcomes of their projects. This is a critical step to evaluate practical skills and communication abilities.
• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: This stage assesses interpersonal skills, teamwork capabilities, problem-solving approaches, and alignment with Price Industries Limited's values and culture.
• Final Interview: May involve senior management or department heads for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills relevant to this role (CAD, manufacturability, problem-solving).
• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the problem, your design process, the constraints you faced, your solutions, and the results or impact.
• Highlight CAD Skills: Be prepared to discuss your proficiency with specific CAD software and demonstrate your ability to create detailed technical drawings.
• Showcase DFM Understanding: If possible, include examples where you considered manufacturability, cost, or assembly during the design phase.
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your designs (e.g., "reduced material cost by X%," "improved assembly time by Y%").

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for potential design-related questions or a small take-home design exercise that assesses your approach to a common product design challenge.
• Prepare to discuss your understanding of the product development lifecycle and your role within it.
• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, especially when discussing technical concepts or design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and technical questions highlights the practical nature of this role. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their design capabilities and understanding of manufacturing principles, reflecting the operational focus of product development.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Software: Proficiency is mandatory in at least one of SOLIDWORKS, SOLIDEDGE, or AUTOCAD. Candidates should be comfortable with parametric modeling, assembly design, and the creation of detailed manufacturing drawings.
• MS Office Applications: Essential for documentation, reporting, material estimates, and general project communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated, basic data analysis skills related to design performance, material costs, and manufacturing efficiency may be beneficial.
• Familiarity with project management tools for tracking design progress could also be an advantage.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but awareness of how product designs integrate into CRM and ERP systems for sales and production planning would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of specific 3D CAD software is critical. Candidates must highlight their experience with these tools, as they are central to the daily responsibilities of a Product Designer in this context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in all design and business dealings.
• Service Excellence: Commitment to providing first-class service to internal and external stakeholders.
• Innovation: Driving new ideas and solutions in product design and manufacturing processes.
• Commitment to People: Valuing employees, fostering a supportive work environment, and promoting personal growth.
• Quality: Dedication to producing high-quality products through meticulous design and manufacturing.
• Efficiency: Focus on cost-effectiveness and streamlined processes in design and production.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with teams across departments to ensure designs meet all functional requirements and production capabilities.
• Feedback-Oriented: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to continuously improve designs and processes.
• Teamwork: Working collaboratively to achieve common goals, sharing knowledge, and supporting team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long-standing values—integrity, service, innovation, and commitment to people—are foundational. For a Product Designer, this translates to a work environment that values collaboration, quality, and a proactive approach to problem-solving within the operational framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Innovation with Manufacturability: The primary challenge will be to create innovative designs that are also cost-effective and feasible for mass production within Price Industries' manufacturing capabilities.
• Integrating Custom Solutions: Developing custom designs for specific client needs while maintaining design standards and efficient production workflows.
• Adapting to Evolving HVAC Technology: Staying abreast of advancements in acoustics, materials, and HVAC systems to ensure product designs remain competitive and relevant.
• Entry-Level Learning Curve: As an entry-level role, a key challenge will be quickly learning company-specific processes, software nuances, and industry standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on Experience: Gaining practical experience in a manufacturing environment, working directly with production teams and processes.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced engineers and designers within the company.
• Technical Training: Opportunities for formal training in advanced CAD techniques, design for manufacturability, or specific industry knowledge.
• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Understanding the broader business operations by collaborating with sales, purchasing, and applications engineering teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for an entry-level design role in manufacturing, emphasizing the need for practical application of knowledge and continuous learning. The growth opportunities are directly tied to developing core operational competencies in product development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through your typical design process for a new product, from concept to production-ready drawings." Be prepared to discuss your methodology for ideation, research, prototyping (if applicable), detailing, and documentation.
• CAD Proficiency: "Describe your experience with SOLIDWORKS/SOLIDEDGE/AUTOCAD. What are your favorite features, and what types of complex designs have you created?" Be ready to discuss specific features and your comfort level.
• Manufacturability: "How do you ensure a design is manufacturable and cost-efficient? Can you provide an example?" Focus on DFM principles, material considerations, and production process awareness.
• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you encountered a design challenge. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answer.
• Collaboration: "How do you work with cross-functional teams, such as manufacturing or sales, to ensure a successful product launch?" Emphasize communication, feedback integration, and understanding different perspectives.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Price Industries Limited's history, products, and core values to demonstrate your interest and alignment.
• Prepare questions for the interviewer about the team structure, typical project workflows, and opportunities for professional development.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Be Concise and Focused: Select 3 key projects that highlight your strongest skills and relevance to the role.
• Explain Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, especially if it was a team effort.
• Showcase Technical Detail: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your designs, including CAD models, drawings, and material choices.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, present metrics that demonstrate the success or efficiency of your designs.
• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your presentation to ensure it flows smoothly and stays within any time limits.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a practical understanding of the design-to-manufacturing pipeline, strong technical CAD skills, and effective communication within a team-oriented, operational environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your engineering education, CAD software proficiency (SOLIDWORKS, SOLIDEDGE, AUTOCAD), and any relevant project experience, even academic ones. Use keywords from the job description.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio (e.g., PDF or online link) featuring 2-3 of your best design projects. Focus on showcasing your CAD skills, understanding of manufacturability, and problem-solving abilities. Be ready to present and discuss these projects in detail.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Price Industries Limited's products, history, and company values to articulate your interest and suitability for their culture.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to answer technical questions about design principles, CAD software, and manufacturing processes. Practice explaining your design projects using the STAR method for behavioral questions.

⚠️ 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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