Product Designer III

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer III

Company: Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc.

Location: Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Design / Industrial Design / Engineering

Date Posted: December 3, 2025

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end product development lifecycle for HVAC equipment, focusing on industrial design and new product introduction (NPI).

• Drive innovation by researching, developing, and evaluating new technologies and design solutions to enhance existing HVAC and cooling products.

• Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams, including Engineering, Production, Sales, and Marketing, to ensure designs meet rigorous performance, cost, and manufacturability standards.

• Leverage expertise in sheet metal design, mechanical components, and control systems to create robust and efficient product designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior Product Designer (III), indicating a need for leadership in design initiatives, mentorship capabilities, and a significant degree of autonomy in problem-solving and project execution within the manufacturing and product development domain. The focus on HVAC equipment and specific manufacturing processes like sheet metal fabrication are key indicators of the specialized technical knowledge required.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead new product development (NPD) and value engineering projects from ideation through to production release.

• Conduct thorough research and evaluation of existing and emerging technologies to integrate them into product designs for competitive advantage.

• Translate complex product challenges into innovative, visualized design solutions, focusing on user experience and manufacturability.

• Develop and manage project plans to ensure the timely completion of design, lab testing, and manufacturing equipment development aligned with project specifications.

• Actively participate in the design and development process, contributing creative solutions, providing regular progress reports, and leading design reviews.

• Perform detailed research and development of manufacturing processes, including production flow optimization, assembly method refinement, and production equipment specification.

• Support product development planning by creating comprehensive process documentation, identifying tooling requirements, and coordinating technical review meetings.

• Serve as a key liaison between engineers, management, production staff, and customers to understand evolving needs, prioritize improvements, and provide critical project updates.

• Cultivate a working knowledge of relevant industry codes and standards (e.g., UL, AMCA, NEC) pertaining to HVAC equipment to ensure compliance and safety.

• Coordinate new product requirements and market feedback with Sales and Marketing teams to align product strategy with business objectives.

• Design critical sheet metal parts, enclosures, control systems, and mechanical components specifically for HVAC and cooling product applications.

• Build, evaluate, and iterate on prototypes, support rigorous lab testing procedures, and assist in navigating agency compliance processes for product certification.

• Create detailed 2D models, drawings, and assemblies utilizing SolidWorks and manage them within a Product Data Management (PDM) system.

• Utilize PMI (Product Manufacturing Information) design tables to ensure design accuracy and facilitate downstream manufacturing processes.

• Conduct thorough reviews of Bills of Materials (BOMs) and engineering drawings to identify and rectify errors or discrepancies.

• Lead and coordinate production pilot runs to validate manufacturing processes and product quality before full-scale production.

• Perform other assigned duties as required to support the product development and manufacturing operations.

• Ensure all design and development activities adhere strictly to established safety procedures and protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design leadership, hands-on technical execution (CAD, prototyping), and cross-functional collaboration. The emphasis on "leading" projects, "investigating emerging technologies," and "coordinating production pilot runs" suggests a role with significant ownership and impact on product success. The mention of specific industry codes (UL, AMCA, NEC) and PDM systems points to the need for meticulous detail and regulatory awareness.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive product design experience, specifically within manufacturing environments.

• Demonstrated experience in leading new product development (NPD) projects, from initial concept through to successful production launch.

• Proven ability to identify, evaluate, and integrate new technologies into product designs to enhance functionality and market competitiveness.

• Extensive experience in designing and developing sheet metal parts, enclosures, and mechanical components.

• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience with SolidWorks, including proficiency in creating complex assemblies and utilizing sheet metal design functionalities.

• Minimum 5 years of experience with AutoCAD 2D for drafting and documentation purposes.

• Experience in supporting product development through prototyping, lab testing, and agency compliance processes.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional mechanical aptitude and a deep understanding of mechanical systems and mechanisms.

• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, with a particular emphasis on sheet metal fabrication, assembly techniques, and rapid prototyping.

• Proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling, assemblies, and sheet metal design.

• Proficiency in AutoCAD 2D for creating technical drawings and documentation.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively collaborate across diverse teams and articulate technical concepts.

• Ability to read, create, and improve engineering drawings and Bills of Materials (BOMs).

• High degree of creativity with strong conceptual design capabilities and the ability to visualize innovative solutions.

• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills to address complex design and engineering challenges.

• Self-motivated, highly organized, adaptable, and capable of managing multiple concurrent projects effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Working knowledge of storage architecture and web-hosted applications (relevant for control systems or data integration aspects).

• Familiarity with industry codes such as UL, AMCA, and NEC as they relate to HVAC equipment.

• Experience with value engineering initiatives to optimize product cost and performance.

• Understanding of production flow and assembly method optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design or Industrial Engineering, coupled with a minimum of 5 years of experience, firmly places this role in the mid-to-senior level. The specific software proficiencies (SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and manufacturing process knowledge (sheet metal) are critical technical requirements. The emphasis on mentoring and leading by example suggests the need for strong interpersonal and leadership qualities beyond technical expertise.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 significant new product development (NPD) projects, ideally within the manufacturing or HVAC sectors.

• Include detailed case studies for at least two projects, highlighting your specific role, design process, challenges encountered, and innovative solutions implemented.

• Showcase proficiency in 3D modeling and 2D technical drawings created using SolidWorks and AutoCAD, with examples of complex assemblies and sheet metal designs.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of process documentation created for manufacturing workflows, assembly methods, or production equipment setup.

• Documentation illustrating your approach to conducting design reviews, technical reviews, and project progress reporting.

• Evidence of your involvement in developing or refining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for design or manufacturing processes.

• Work samples demonstrating how you have analyzed and improved production flow or assembly efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Product Designer III role, a strong portfolio is paramount. It should not only display aesthetic and functional design capabilities but also demonstrate a deep understanding of the product development lifecycle, manufacturing constraints, and the ability to drive projects from concept to production. The emphasis on process documentation and optimization indicates a need for a structured and analytical approach to design and manufacturing.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Retirement savings plan, potentially with a company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week. The standard working hours are likely to be Monday through Friday, during core business hours, with potential for some flexibility depending on project demands and team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $90,000-$95,000 is specific and should be considered the target compensation. For a Product Designer III in Phoenix, this range aligns with industry benchmarks for individuals with 5-10 years of experience and specialized skills in industrial and mechanical design within a manufacturing context. Benefits are standard for full-time roles in US manufacturing companies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. operates within the manufacturing sector, specifically focusing on HVAC and cooling equipment. This industry is characterized by rigorous product development cycles, a strong emphasis on engineering and design excellence, regulatory compliance, and a need for continuous innovation to meet market demands for efficiency and sustainability.

Company Size: With a size likely in the mid-to-large range (based on typical manufacturing operations of this nature), Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. offers a balance of established processes and potential for individual impact. This size often means structured departments and clear career paths, while still allowing for significant cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: Founded at an earlier stage, Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. has established a presence in its industry, suggesting a history of product development and market engagement. This longevity often translates to a stable work environment with deep-rooted expertise and established operational procedures.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely consists of multiple designers at various levels, including junior, mid-level, and senior (III) roles, reporting to a Design Manager or Engineering Director.

• The Product Designer III will work closely with Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Production Floor Managers, Quality Assurance personnel, Sales Representatives, and Marketing Specialists.

Methodology:

• Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. likely employs a structured product development methodology, potentially a hybrid of Waterfall and Agile principles, emphasizing thorough design reviews, rigorous testing, and phased launches.

• Data analysis plays a crucial role, with designs informed by market research, customer feedback, performance testing data, and cost analysis.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially concerning production processes, assembly efficiency, and supply chain integration.

• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly important in manufacturing, likely influencing how designs are developed and how production lines are set up.

Company Website: [Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. Website URL - Placeholder as not provided]

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on manufacturing and HVAC equipment suggests a culture that values technical expertise, precision, and a hands-on approach. The "Product Designer III" title implies a company that recognizes and rewards experience and leadership within its design and engineering functions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Product Designer III represents a senior individual contributor role. This level signifies a strong technical foundation, proven problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to lead complex projects independently. It's a position that bridges experienced execution with nascent leadership, often involving mentorship and guiding less experienced team members.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer III typically reports to a Design Manager, Lead Designer, or Engineering Director. They will work closely with a cross-functional team, coordinating with peers in engineering, manufacturing, sales, and marketing.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts revenue through the successful launch of innovative and cost-effective products. By optimizing designs for manufacturability and performance, the Product Designer III contributes to reduced production costs, improved product quality, enhanced customer satisfaction, and ultimately, increased sales and market share for Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc.'s HVAC equipment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of industrial design, HVAC technology, or advanced manufacturing processes.

• Leadership Track: Progress into roles such as Lead Product Designer, Design Manager, or Engineering Manager, overseeing teams and strategic product initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into roles within Product Management, Project Management, or Manufacturing Engineering, leveraging a broad understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Continuous Learning: Opportunities for advanced training, certifications in CAD software, or courses in emerging technologies relevant to HVAC and manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "III" designation in the title suggests a clear progression path within the company's design and engineering structure. Growth opportunities would likely involve taking on more strategic project leadership, mentoring junior staff, and potentially moving into management or specialized technical expert roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role at Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc.'s facility in Phoenix, Arizona. The work environment will likely involve a combination of office space for design work and computer-aided design (CAD) tasks, and potentially a lab or workshop area for prototyping and testing.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is 3655 E Roeser Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85040. This location is within a commercial or industrial area of Phoenix, accessible via local transportation routes.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be designed to foster collaboration, with access to CAD workstations, design software, and potentially 3D printing or rapid prototyping equipment.

• Operations tools and technology, including SolidWorks, AutoCAD, PDM systems, and potentially simulation software, will be readily available.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is expected to be 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday, during regular business hours. Some flexibility may be available to accommodate project deadlines or specific testing schedules, but the on-site nature of the role requires consistent presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for manufacturing and product development roles where hands-on interaction with prototypes, production lines, and cross-functional teams is essential. The Phoenix location offers a stable industrial base.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: This will be with the direct manager (e.g., Design Manager or Engineering Director) to delve deeper into technical skills, project experience, and leadership potential.

• Technical/Portfolio Review: A key stage will involve presenting your portfolio. This will likely be a dedicated session to walk through your design projects, explain your process, and answer in-depth technical questions. Be prepared to discuss your work on sheet metal designs, SolidWorks/AutoCAD usage, and manufacturing considerations.

• Cross-Functional Team Interview: You may meet with key stakeholders from engineering, production, or sales to assess collaboration skills and understanding of their departmental needs.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership for a final assessment of fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in industrial design, mechanical design, sheet metal fabrication, and new product development for manufacturing.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role and responsibilities, the design process you followed, key challenges, innovative solutions, and the outcomes (e.g., performance improvements, cost savings, successful launch). Use visuals extensively (sketches, renderings, CAD models, photos of prototypes/products).

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your specific use of SolidWorks and AutoCAD, including complex assemblies, sheet metal features, and PDM system integration. Demonstrate your understanding of manufacturing processes.

• Showcase Collaboration & Impact: Explain how you collaborated with engineering, production, and sales. Quantify your impact whenever possible with metrics related to cost, efficiency, or performance.

• Be Prepared for Design Challenges: While not explicitly stated, be ready for potential on-the-spot design exercises or problem-solving scenarios related to HVAC components or manufacturing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review common design challenges in the HVAC industry, such as thermal management, airflow optimization, noise reduction, and energy efficiency.

• Practice articulating your design process and decision-making rationale clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a mixed audience of technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Familiarize yourself with Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc.'s products and market position to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily emphasize the candidate's portfolio and practical design skills. Candidates should prepare to meticulously walk through their past projects, demonstrating not just the final output but the thought process, technical execution, and collaborative efforts involved. The "III" level suggests that strategic thinking and problem-solving depth will be key evaluation criteria.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• SolidWorks: Essential for 3D modeling, assemblies, and sheet metal design. Proficiency in advanced features, surfacing, and potentially simulation add-ons would be beneficial.

• AutoCAD 2D: Required for creating detailed 2D drawings, schematics, and documentation.

• PDM (Product Data Management) System: Necessary for managing design revisions, version control, and collaboration on design files. Specific PDM system experience (e.g., SolidWorks PDM) is a plus.

• Prototyping Tools: Access to 3D printers, CNC machines, or other rapid prototyping equipment for creating and testing physical models.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BOM Management Tools: JDE (likely an ERP system) is mentioned for BOM error tracking, indicating a need for understanding BOM structures and potential integration with design data.

• Data Analysis Software: While not explicitly listed, proficiency in Excel or other data analysis tools may be used for performance tracking and design validation.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP System (e.g., JDE): Familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning systems is beneficial for understanding how BOMs and product data flow into production and inventory management.

• Project Management Software: Tools for tracking project timelines, tasks, and resources (e.g., MS Project, Asana, Jira) may be used.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily skewed towards CAD and PDM systems, reflecting the core responsibilities of a product designer in a manufacturing environment. The mention of JDE for BOM error tracking indicates that understanding how design data integrates with broader business systems is important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Creativity: A drive to develop novel solutions and improve existing products through creative design thinking.

• Quality & Precision: A commitment to high standards in design, engineering documentation, and manufacturing, ensuring reliable and durable products.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing open communication and effective partnership across departments to achieve common goals.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A focus on streamlining processes, reducing costs, and maximizing performance in both product design and manufacturing.

• Safety & Compliance: Adherence to all safety protocols and industry standards in all aspects of work.

Collaboration Style:

• Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. likely fosters a collaborative environment where engineers, designers, production staff, and sales/marketing teams work in close partnership.

• Expect regular design reviews, cross-functional team meetings, and open channels for feedback exchange to ensure alignment and address challenges proactively.

• Knowledge sharing is encouraged, particularly in mentorship roles, to elevate the team's collective expertise in design practices and process improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes technical excellence, innovation, and a results-oriented approach, typical of successful manufacturing firms. The collaborative style is crucial for bridging the gap between design intent and manufacturing reality.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Manufacturability: Designing cutting-edge products while ensuring they can be efficiently and cost-effectively produced at scale.

• Integrating Emerging Technologies: Identifying and successfully incorporating new technologies into existing product lines or new developments, which may require significant R&D and testing.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Navigating differing priorities and perspectives among Engineering, Production, Sales, and Marketing to ensure a unified product vision.

• Staying Current with Industry Standards: Keeping abreast of evolving industry codes (UL, AMCA, NEC) and ensuring all designs remain compliant.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Effectively prioritizing and executing on several complex design projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD Training: Pursuing certifications or advanced training modules for SolidWorks and related design software.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Attending events focused on HVAC technology, industrial design, or manufacturing innovations.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior engineers or to mentor junior designers, fostering leadership skills.

• Exposure to New Technologies: Involvement in R&D projects exploring new materials, manufacturing techniques, or smart technologies for HVAC systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to product development in a competitive manufacturing sector. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical expertise, enhancing leadership capabilities, and staying at the forefront of industry advancements.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex product design challenge you faced in a previous role involving sheet metal fabrication. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and results).

• "How do you balance creative design exploration with the practical constraints of manufacturing cost and production timelines?" (Demonstrate understanding of trade-offs and efficiency).

• "Walk me through your process for a new product introduction (NPI) from concept to final release. What are the key stages and your role in each?" (Showcase project management and lifecycle understanding).

• "How have you used SolidWorks or AutoCAD to solve a specific design problem or optimize a component's performance?" (Be ready to detail specific technical applications).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. and our products? Why are you interested in working with us?" (Research the company's product line, market position, and values).

• "How do you approach mentoring junior designers or leading design efforts on a project?" (Focus on leadership and knowledge-sharing).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative – the problem, your innovative solution, the challenges overcome, and the positive impact.

• Visuals are Key: Use high-quality renderings, CAD screenshots, photos of prototypes, and clear technical drawings. Annotate them to explain key features and design decisions.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, provide metrics for cost savings, performance improvements, or efficiency gains achieved through your designs.

• Focus on Process: Explain how you arrived at your solutions, not just what the solutions are. Detail your use of SolidWorks, PDM, and your understanding of manufacturing processes.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical choices, material selection, and manufacturing considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely be highly practical, focusing on the candidate's ability to apply their design skills to real-world manufacturing challenges. Preparing specific examples from past projects that demonstrate technical proficiency, problem-solving, and collaborative success will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer III position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights your 5+ years of product design experience in manufacturing, specific accomplishments with SolidWorks and AutoCAD, and any experience with HVAC equipment or sheet metal design. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio that clearly showcases your best work in industrial design, mechanical design, and new product development. Include detailed case studies of at least 2-3 projects, emphasizing your process, technical skills, and impact.

• Research Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc.: Familiarize yourself with the company's history, product lines, and any recent news or innovations in the HVAC industry. Understand their market position and competitive landscape.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse walking through your portfolio projects, focusing on clear communication, conciseness, and articulating your design decisions and problem-solving approaches. Be ready to answer technical questions about your work.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, particularly regarding company culture, specific benefits, and the exact interview process, should be verified directly with Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. during the application and interview stages.