Product Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Design Manager

Company: Linxens

Location: Ayutthaya, Thailand

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Product Development & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-04-13

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a product design team focused on new product development and innovation.

• Drive technical solutions for product standards, customer-specific requirements, and design for manufacturability.

• Oversee the industrialization of new products, ensuring compliance with specifications, quality systems, and business inputs.

• Conduct comprehensive performance analysis, prototype validation, and reliability evaluations for new and existing products.

• Implement and refine product design rules and guidelines, ensuring alignment with industrialization process capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Product Design Manager," the core responsibilities and required experience in process, manufacturing, and industrialization strongly indicate a role deeply integrated with manufacturing operations, making it a hybrid Product Design/Manufacturing Operations role. The emphasis on "design for manufacturing" and "industrialization" points towards a need for operational efficiency and scalability in product design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the Product Design team, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence in new product development.

• Define and execute new design solutions for product development projects, ensuring alignment with customer specifications and industry standards.

• Oversee the approval process for the industrialization of new products, adhering to company procedures and quality system requirements.

• Drive activities for new product improvement, process optimization, and reliability evaluations.

• Develop, maintain, and evolve product design rules and guidelines, defining new parameters for product/process limitations with a focus on industrialization capabilities.

• Conduct rigorous new product design reviews, approve prototypes, and perform detailed performance analysis to ensure products meet quality and functional parameters.

• Lead initiatives to evaluate and integrate new process technologies and materials into product development cycles.

• Validate the practical application of new products within customer processes and end-product applications through simulation and rigorous testing.

• Manage multiple new product development projects simultaneously, employing Agile project management methodologies for efficient execution.

• Provide detailed technical specifications and machine parameters for sample production, ensuring adherence to customer requests and on-time delivery.

• Investigate and resolve technical issues related to product samples, implementing effective corrective and preventive actions.

• Release essential documentation, including Project Management Plans (PMP), Work Instructions (WI), Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), and machine parameters, for seamless new product transfer to manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on the "design for manufacturing" (DFM) and "design for reliability" (DFR) aspects, which are critical for operations and manufacturing teams. The explicit mention of PMP, WI, FMEA, and machine parameters indicates a deep involvement in the operationalization of product designs.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Master’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial) or a related technology field.

Experience:

• Over 10 years of experience in Process Engineering, Production Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering roles.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in New Product Development (NPD) lifecycle management.

• Strong technical knowledge of electronics and consumer products.

• Comprehensive understanding of industrialization processes and manufacturing standards.

• Proficiency in 2D and 3D CAD design software.

• Experience with simulation tools for design validation.

• Familiarity with Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) for risk assessment.

• Demonstrated ability in managing multiple projects concurrently, preferably using Agile methodologies.

• Experience in developing and releasing technical documentation (PMP, WI, FMEA).

• Excellent problem-solving skills with a focus on corrective and preventive actions.

Preferred Skills:

• Direct experience in the ID cards and passport inlay RFID business.

• Knowledge of RFID technology principles and applications.

• Familiarity with Free Trade Operations (FTO) processes or legal clearances.

• Experience with specific simulation software relevant to product performance and reliability.

• Understanding of quality systems and compliance requirements in manufacturing environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of extensive manufacturing/process engineering experience with specific new product development responsibilities and a preference for RFID/ID card industry experience is a key differentiator. This suggests the role bridges the gap between pure R&D and the manufacturing floor, requiring a practical, operations-minded approach to product design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least 2-3 comprehensive case studies detailing successful new product development projects from concept to industrialization.

• For each case study, clearly outline the initial product concept, design challenges, technical solutions implemented, and the specific role played in the design and development process.

• Provide evidence of how designs were optimized for manufacturability, including examples of process improvements or DFM considerations that reduced production costs or improved yield.

• Demonstrate experience with design validation through simulation and prototype testing, including presented results and how they informed design iterations.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to developing and maintaining product design rules and guidelines, emphasizing how these are translated into actionable manufacturing processes.

• Be ready to explain methodologies used for evaluating and integrating new process technologies and materials, including risk assessment and validation steps.

• Prepare to articulate how product performance is simulated and validated for customer processes and end-product applications, demonstrating a deep understanding of the end-to-end product lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's emphasis on industrialization and manufacturing, the portfolio should strongly feature projects that demonstrate a tangible link between design decisions and operational outcomes. This includes efficiency gains, cost reductions, yield improvements, and successful product launches.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Product Design Manager role with 10+ years of experience in Thailand, particularly in specialized manufacturing sectors like electronics or RFID, a competitive salary range can be estimated. For Ayutthaya, Thailand, this role could command an annual salary between THB 1,500,000 to THB 2,500,000 (approximately USD 41,000 to USD 68,000), depending on the candidate's specific experience, negotiation skills, and the company's compensation structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: This salary estimation is based on research of similar management roles in engineering and product development within the manufacturing sector in Thailand, considering the cost of living and average compensation for senior technical leadership. Actual compensation may vary.

Benefits:

• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.

• Career growth prospects within a global organization.

• Exposure to a multicultural work environment with international collaboration.

• Opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies and innovative projects.

• Comprehensive health and wellness programs (details typically provided during the offer stage).

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, likely 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate project demands and Agile methodologies.

• Potential for hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between on-site collaboration and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid" work arrangement implies a need for strong self-management and communication skills, essential for operations roles that often require both focused individual work and collaborative problem-solving.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Linxens operates in the advanced manufacturing sector, specializing in micro-connectors, module packaging, antennas & inlays, and secure ID solutions. This places them at the intersection of electronics, security, and the Internet of Things (IoT).

Company Size: Linxens is a global company with multiple R&D centers and production sites worldwide, employing a significant number of individuals across various locations. This large, international footprint suggests a structured yet dynamic operational environment.

Founded: With over 40 years of innovation, Linxens has a long-standing history, indicating a stable and established company with deep expertise and a proven track record in its specialized fields.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely consists of skilled engineers and designers focused on R&D and product innovation.

• This role involves close collaboration with manufacturing operations, quality assurance, project management, and potentially sales/marketing teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using performance analysis, simulation data, and customer feedback to guide design decisions.

• Agile Project Management: Adoption of Agile principles for managing multiple concurrent projects, focusing on iterative development and timely delivery.

• Process Optimization: A core focus on "design for manufacturing" and "design for reliability" to ensure efficient, high-quality production and product longevity.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and global presence suggest a culture that values expertise, innovation, and robust operational processes. The focus on IoT and secure ID solutions indicates a forward-looking approach to technology and a commitment to quality and security in their products.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management position, leading a critical function within new product development that directly impacts manufacturing readiness and product quality. It requires a blend of technical leadership, project management, and operational insight.

Reporting Structure: The Product Design Manager likely reports to a higher-level R&D Director, VP of Engineering, or potentially a CTO, depending on the organizational structure. They will manage a team of product designers and engineers.

Operations Impact: The Product Design Manager plays a pivotal role in ensuring that new products are not only innovative but also manufacturable, reliable, and cost-effective. Their decisions directly influence production efficiency, product quality, time-to-market, and ultimately, the company's revenue and competitiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher leadership roles within R&D or Operations, such as Head of Product Development, Director of Engineering, or VP of Operations.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like RFID technology, advanced materials, or specific manufacturing processes relevant to Linxens' product lines.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunity to lead broader innovation initiatives or contribute to strategic operational planning across different departments.

• Global Mobility: Potential for international assignments or leadership roles within Linxens' global network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth for individuals who can demonstrate strong technical leadership, a strategic understanding of manufacturing operations, and the ability to drive innovation that translates into tangible business results.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Ayutthaya, Thailand, suggesting an on-site or hybrid work environment within a manufacturing and R&D facility. This environment would typically involve a blend of office-based work for design, planning, and meetings, with necessary time spent on the production floor for process observation, validation, and collaboration with manufacturing teams.

Office Location(s): Ayutthaya, Thailand. This location is a significant industrial hub, offering access to skilled labor and logistical advantages within Thailand.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace that encourages collaboration between design engineers, manufacturing engineers, quality control personnel, and project managers.

• Tooling & Technology: Access to advanced design software (CAD, simulation), prototyping equipment, and potentially laboratory facilities for testing and validation.

• Operational Proximity: Close proximity to manufacturing lines and production processes to facilitate hands-on problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the Agile project management requirement and the nature of new product development may necessitate flexibility to meet project deadlines and ensure timely product launches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature suggests a need for efficient time management, balancing design work with on-site operational engagement. This environment is ideal for those who thrive on tangible problem-solving and seeing their designs come to life on the factory floor.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications and conduct an initial call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth discussions with engineering or R&D leadership focusing on technical expertise, product development methodologies, and problem-solving skills. Be prepared to discuss your experience with CAD, simulation, FMEA, and industrialization processes.

• Design Portfolio Review: A critical stage where you will present your portfolio, showcasing specific projects, design challenges, solutions, and outcomes, with an emphasis on manufacturability and reliability.

• Operations & Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with key stakeholders from manufacturing, quality, and project management to assess collaboration style, understanding of operational constraints, and ability to integrate design with production.

• Final Interview: Typically with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment, leadership potential, and overall fit with Linxens.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the quantifiable results: e.g., "Reduced manufacturing cost by X%," "Improved product yield by Y%," "Accelerated time-to-market by Z weeks."

• DFM Focus: Highlight instances where design decisions directly improved manufacturability, reduced complexity, or lowered production costs.

• Problem/Solution/Result Structure: For each case study, use a clear problem-solution-result framework.

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, CAD renderings, and photos of prototypes or finished products to illustrate your work.

• Operations Alignment: Emphasize how your design choices supported operational efficiency and quality standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for hypothetical problem-solving scenarios related to product design, manufacturing challenges, or process improvements.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly, explaining your approach to analyzing a problem, evaluating options, and proposing solutions.

• Consider how you would handle situations involving conflicting requirements between design aesthetics, functionality, cost, and manufacturing feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and the potential for operational interviews underscores the practical, hands-on nature of this role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just design prowess but a deep understanding of how designs translate into real-world manufacturing outcomes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in 2D and 3D CAD design tools (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, AutoCAD, Inventor) is essential for creating and modifying product designs.

• Simulation Software: Experience with simulation tools for Finite Element Analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), or other relevant physics-based simulations to predict product performance and reliability.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with Agile project management tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Trello) for managing multiple development projects.

• Documentation Tools: Proficiency in creating and managing technical documents, including PMP, WI, and FMEA, likely using standard office suites or specialized PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for performance analysis of prototypes and production runs.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing CRM, understanding how product specifications and design data feed into ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems for manufacturing and supply chain operations is beneficial.

• Familiarity with automation principles in design or manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of CAD, simulation, FMEA, PMP, and WI points to a need for candidates who are not just designers but also process-oriented engineers adept at using these tools to drive industrialization.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Excellence: A drive to create cutting-edge solutions while maintaining the highest standards of quality and technical execution.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively across departments, particularly with manufacturing, quality, and project management teams.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to meeting and exceeding customer specifications and requirements.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A commitment to optimizing processes, reducing waste, and enhancing product performance and manufacturability.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities from design to industrialization.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with manufacturing engineers to ensure designs are practical and efficient for production.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication with project managers, quality assurance, and other stakeholders to anticipate and address potential issues.

• Feedback Loops: Encouraging and utilizing feedback from production and quality teams to refine designs and improve future product development cycles.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering an environment where design insights and lessons learned are shared to benefit the broader engineering and operations teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "reinventing ourselves" and "growing and innovating" suggests a culture that values proactive problem-solving and a forward-thinking approach, which is crucial for a role bridging design and operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Manufacturability: The primary challenge will be to develop innovative products that are also cost-effective and straightforward to manufacture at scale.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Effectively juggling priorities and deadlines for several concurrent new product development projects, each with unique technical and operational requirements.

• Integrating New Technologies: Evaluating and integrating novel materials or process technologies that may require significant investment in new equipment or training.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring seamless collaboration and alignment between design intent and the realities of the manufacturing floor, especially with diverse teams and global operations.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Staying abreast of advancements in RFID, electronics, and manufacturing technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like RFID technology, material science, advanced simulation techniques, or specific manufacturing processes.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training and mentorship to enhance management and strategic leadership skills.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events and pursuing certifications in product development, project management, or specialized engineering fields.

• Exposure to Global Operations: Gaining experience working within a multinational corporation with diverse operational challenges and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for growth by tackling complex challenges that require a blend of technical acumen and operational pragmatism. Success in this role will build a strong foundation for future leadership positions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance competing design requirements (e.g., cost, performance, manufacturability). How did you prioritize and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your decision-making process and ability to find optimal solutions).

• "Walk me through your process for designing a new product with specific RFID inlay requirements. What key considerations would you focus on for manufacturability?" (Prepare a concise overview of your NPD process with a DFM lens).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Linxens, what do you see as the biggest opportunities or challenges for product design in our industry?" (Show that you've researched the company and its market).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within your design team and with other departments like manufacturing and quality?" (Highlight your leadership and interpersonal skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project or by key skill demonstrated. Use a consistent format for each case study (e.g., Problem, Solution, Key Design Decisions, DFM/Operational Impact, Results).

• Quantify Everything: For each project, provide concrete metrics on performance improvements, cost savings, yield increases, or time-to-market reductions.

• Focus on "Why": Explain the rationale behind your design choices, especially those that addressed manufacturing constraints or improved operational efficiency.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific technical details, tools used, and challenges encountered during the design and industrialization phases.

• Connect to Linxens: Where possible, subtly tie your experiences and skills to Linxens' products and industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the entire product lifecycle, from initial concept through to successful industrialization and customer application, with a keen eye on operational efficiency and manufacturability.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://onelinxens.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/External_Careers/job/Ayutthaya/Product-Design-Manager_JR100925

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in new product development, process/manufacturing engineering, CAD/simulation, and any relevant industry experience (RFID, ID cards). Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest new product development projects that best demonstrate your skills in design, DFM, industrialization, and problem-solving. Prepare clear visuals and quantifiable results.

• Prepare for Technical & Behavioral Interviews: Practice answering questions about your technical expertise, leadership style, project management approach, and how you handle challenges.

• Research Linxens: Understand their products, markets, and company values to articulate your fit and interest effectively during interviews.

⚠️ 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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