Product Designer - Critical Environments

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer - Critical Environments

Company: Price Industries Limited

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Design / Engineering

Date Posted: 2026-05-11T05:00:00

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and develop innovative new products from initial concept to detailed implementation within critical environments.

• Drive product improvements for existing lines to enhance performance and optimize manufacturing costs.

• Provide essential technical support to production teams and spearhead long-term process improvements.

• Contribute to market education through technical presentations and sales support.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end product development lifecycle, from business case formulation and concept ideation through to detailed design and final implementation.

• Execute design modifications on existing products to boost performance metrics, reduce production expenses, and maintain competitive advantage.

• Offer consistent day-to-day technical guidance to the manufacturing floor, actively contributing to sustained process enhancements and operational efficiencies.

• Develop and deliver technical presentations to educate internal teams, clients, and stakeholders on product capabilities and applications.

• Proactively investigate and resolve technical issues reported from the field, ensuring customer satisfaction and product reliability.

• Foster strong collaboration with the production department to ensure seamless integration of designs into manufacturing processes, optimizing for efficiency and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges product development and manufacturing support, requiring a blend of design expertise and practical production understanding. The emphasis on "Critical Environments" suggests a focus on specialized applications within HVAC, potentially involving controlled atmospheres, cleanrooms, or similar high-specification settings.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or an Engineering Technology Diploma.

Experience: Minimum of 2-5 years of experience in product design, with a preference for candidates with prior experience in manufacturing or the HVAC industry.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 3D CAD software, specifically Solid Edge and SolidWorks, for design and modeling.

• Expertise in Revit for building information modeling and integration.

• Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Practical understanding of gated product development methodologies.

• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and their application.

• Technical aptitude and a hands-on understanding of power and hand tools.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple competing priorities effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the HVAC industry, specifically with air distribution, critical controls, or noise control products.

• Knowledge of product development for specialized "critical environments."

• Experience with prototyping and testing of new product designs.

• Ability to conduct technical sales support and customer presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Critical Environments" aspect implies a need for understanding specific industry standards and performance requirements related to air quality, temperature control, filtration, and containment, which would be a significant advantage for candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed product development projects from concept to implementation, highlighting your role and contributions.

• Include examples of design iterations and problem-solving approaches, demonstrating your ability to overcome technical challenges.

• Present case studies of product improvements that led to measurable cost reductions or performance enhancements.

• Provide visual documentation (e.g., CAD renderings, technical drawings, prototypes) for key projects.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of designing and documenting complex product workflows.

• Examples of how you've used lean manufacturing principles to streamline production processes.

• Documentation of technical support provided for manufacturing issues and resolution strategies.

• Examples of collaborating with cross-functional teams (e.g., manufacturing, sales) to optimize product design and production.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to articulate the "gated product development" process within their portfolio, detailing how they navigated each stage and the metrics used to assess progress and success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Product Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Winnipeg, MB, Canada, the estimated salary range is CAD $65,000 - $85,000 annually. This estimate considers the complexity of the role, the required technical skills, and the company's industry.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health and Dental insurance plans for employees and their families.

• Free access to PocketPills, Canada's first digital pharmacy, including prescription and vitamin delivery.

• Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) offering confidential mental, emotional, and financial support.

• Life and Disability insurance coverage, with options for additional coverage.

• Pension Matching Program: Defined Contribution Pension Plan with company matching up to 3% of salary.

• Gym Subsidy Program: Annual reimbursement of up to $300 for gym memberships and fitness-related apps.

• "Goals, Rewards, Improvement and Teamwork" (GRIT) program offering monthly rewards for qualifying teams.

• Commitment to Personal and Professional Development through training and education.

• Opportunities for Community Involvement through company-supported initiatives.

• On-site amenities including a Price Café with free tea and coffee.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, typical for a full-time manufacturing/engineering role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary was estimated based on typical mid-level Product Designer roles in Winnipeg, Canada, factoring in the specialized nature of "Critical Environments" which can command a premium. Benefits are detailed from the provided text.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (specifically Air Distribution Products, Critical Controls, and Noise Control). Price Industries is a leader in its market, known for its commitment to quality, service, and innovation.

Company Size: Large (likely 500+ employees based on industry and scope, though not explicitly stated). This size suggests a structured environment with established processes but also opportunities for impact.

Founded: Over 60 years ago, indicating a stable, established company with a deep heritage and proven business model.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely includes other designers, engineers, and drafters, working collaboratively on new product initiatives.

• This role will interface heavily with manufacturing, production, sales, and potentially R&D teams.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on "gated product development" ensures a structured approach to innovation.

• Integration of "lean manufacturing principles" points to a focus on efficiency and waste reduction in production.

• The company values "business integrity, first-class service, innovation and a commitment to people."

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and private, family-owned status suggest a culture that balances tradition with forward-thinking innovation, often fostering loyalty and a strong sense of community among employees.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Product Designer. It requires a solid foundation in engineering principles and CAD software, coupled with practical experience in product development and manufacturing support. The responsibilities indicate a move beyond basic design tasks into project leadership and problem-solving.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will likely report to a senior engineering leader or a manager overseeing product development. This position requires close collaboration with manufacturing supervisors, production staff, and potentially sales representatives.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's work directly influences product performance, manufacturing efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and market competitiveness. Successful product designs and improvements contribute significantly to the company's revenue and reputation as an industry leader. The role also impacts operational efficiency by providing technical support and driving process improvements on the production floor.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in "critical environments" design, becoming a subject matter expert in specialized HVAC applications.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Product Designer or lead engineer role, managing larger projects and mentoring junior designers.

• Cross-functional Advancement: Transition into roles within manufacturing engineering, product management, or technical sales, leveraging a comprehensive understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Continuous Learning: Opportunities for training and education to stay abreast of new design technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the company's emphasis on innovation and personal development, candidates showing initiative in problem-solving and a proactive approach to learning will likely find significant growth paths.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, likely integrating design work within a manufacturing facility. This proximity facilitates close collaboration with production and engineering teams.

Office Location(s): Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. This location is a primary manufacturing hub for Price Industries.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely include a dedicated design office area with access to CAD workstations and necessary software.

• Direct access to the manufacturing floor will be crucial for understanding production processes, troubleshooting issues, and implementing design changes.

• Opportunities for collaboration will be high, involving regular interaction with engineers, production staff, and potentially sales personnel.

• The environment is described as "friendly, team-driven," suggesting a supportive and collaborative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, typical for an on-site engineering role. Flexibility might be offered based on project demands, but the core requirement is on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The integration of design within a manufacturing facility is a key aspect of this role, offering a practical, hands-on experience that is highly valuable for process-oriented professionals.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter, focusing on relevant design experience, technical skills (CAD, Revit), and industry background.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A deeper dive into the candidate's portfolio, discussing specific projects, design decisions, problem-solving approaches, and understanding of manufacturing processes. This may include a technical challenge or case study.

• Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: Interviews with hiring managers and potential team members to assess cultural fit, communication skills, initiative, and alignment with Price Industries' values (integrity, service, innovation, people).

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit and long-term contributions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase "Critical Environments": Highlight any projects related to specialized HVAC applications, cleanrooms, or controlled environments.

• Demonstrate Process Improvement: Clearly articulate how your designs have improved performance, reduced costs, or enhanced manufacturing efficiency. Use metrics where possible.

• Detail CAD Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your workflow in Solid Edge, SolidWorks, and Revit, including specific features or techniques used.

• Explain Problem-Solving: For each project, describe a significant challenge and how you approached its resolution.

• Manufacturing Integration: Show examples of how your designs consider manufacturing constraints and facilitate efficient production.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design problem or a case study related to product improvement or new product ideation in an HVAC context.

• Practice articulating your design process, technical reasoning, and expected outcomes.

• Prepare to discuss how you would collaborate with manufacturing and sales teams.

• Brush up on lean manufacturing principles and gated product development stages.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Critical Environments" focus is paramount. Candidates should emphasize projects demonstrating an understanding of stringent performance requirements, regulatory compliance, and specialized design considerations relevant to areas like cleanrooms, laboratories, or healthcare facilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Software: Solid Edge, SolidWorks (essential for detailed design, modeling, and assembly creation).

• BIM Software: Revit (crucial for integration with architectural and engineering designs, especially in critical environments).

• Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office (Word for documentation, Excel for data analysis and calculations, PowerPoint for presentations).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, expect to use Excel for data analysis related to product performance, cost analysis, and field issue tracking.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design role, but understanding how product specifications translate into CRM data for sales and customer support would be beneficial.

• Familiarity with PDM/PLM (Product Data Management/Product Lifecycle Management) systems might be advantageous for managing design revisions and documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Solid Edge and SolidWorks is a hard requirement. Revit proficiency is also highly valued, especially given the "Critical Environments" specialization, suggesting a need for BIM integration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Business Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all design and development processes.

• First-Class Service: Designing products that meet high customer expectations for performance and reliability.

• Innovation: Continuously seeking new and improved solutions for air distribution and critical environment challenges.

• Commitment to People: Fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment where employees can grow and contribute.

• Efficiency: Applying lean manufacturing principles and meticulous design to optimize production processes and reduce costs.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with manufacturing, sales, and potentially R&D teams to ensure designs are practical, manufacturable, and meet market needs.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Utilizing technical data, performance metrics, and field feedback to inform design choices and improvements.

• Team-Oriented Problem Solving: Collaborating to diagnose and resolve technical issues and develop innovative solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in discussions and sharing technical insights to foster team growth and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long-standing values suggest a culture that appreciates diligent work, strong relationships, and a forward-thinking approach to product development and manufacturing.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design & Manufacturing: Effectively translating innovative designs into manufacturable products that meet cost targets and production timelines.

• Diagnosing Field Issues: Accurately identifying root causes of product failures or performance issues reported from diverse field applications.

• "Critical Environments" Specialization: Staying current with evolving standards, technologies, and performance demands in specialized HVAC sectors.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling design tasks for new products and ongoing support/improvement for existing product lines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Solid Edge, SolidWorks, Revit, and potentially explore new CAD/BIM technologies.

• Industry Knowledge: Gaining in-depth understanding of "critical environments" applications, HVAC system design, and relevant industry standards.

• Process Improvement Training: Formal training or on-the-job learning in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other process optimization methodologies.

• Career Progression: Potential pathways into senior design roles, engineering management, or specialized technical consulting within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a significant opportunity to become an expert in a niche but critical area of HVAC design, which can lead to specialized career opportunities within the building systems industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with gated product development and how you've applied it to specific projects." (Be ready to walk through stages, decision points, and deliverables.)

• "How do you balance innovative design concepts with manufacturing constraints and cost targets?" (Prepare examples of trade-offs and compromise.)

• "Walk us through a challenging product design or improvement you led. What was the problem, your solution, and the outcome?" (Focus on your analytical and problem-solving process.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Price Industries and our products, particularly in critical environments?" (Research the company website, product lines, and industry news.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with manufacturing teams to ensure successful product implementation?" (Highlight communication skills and understanding of production realities.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt to changing project requirements or priorities." (Showcase flexibility and problem-solving under pressure.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically by project, clearly outlining the problem, your role, the design process, solutions, and measurable results (performance improvements, cost savings).

• Visuals: Use high-quality CAD renderings, technical drawings, and potentially photos/videos of prototypes or finished products.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, emphasizing your problem-solving skills, technical expertise, and impact.

• Relevance: Tailor your presentation to highlight experience most relevant to "critical environments" and manufacturing integration.

• Q&A: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design choices, software usage, and technical decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For the portfolio review, be prepared to discuss the specific engineering calculations, material selections, and performance simulations that informed your designs, especially relating to airflow, thermal performance, and acoustics for critical environments.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience, particularly with Solid Edge, SolidWorks, Revit, and any experience in critical environments or HVAC manufacturing.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that clearly showcases your product design projects, emphasizing your involvement in the entire development lifecycle, problem-solving, and process improvements. Ensure it highlights any relevant "critical environments" experience.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description, such as "Mechanical Engineering," "SolidWorks," "Revit," "Lean Manufacturing," "Gated Product Development," and "Critical Environments." Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail, practice answering technical and behavioral questions, and research Price Industries Limited thoroughly, focusing on their products and company values.

• Company Research: Understand Price Industries' position in the market, their commitment to innovation, and their specific focus on air distribution, critical controls, and noise control for various applications.

⚠️ 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.