Product Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Design Manager

Company: NFI Industries

Location: Austin, Texas, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations / Product Design & Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-28T15:06:00

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the design and requirements gathering process for NFI's WMS products (Manhattan and Softeon) to enhance warehouse operations and profitability.

• Manage the end-to-end design lifecycle for new business initiatives and change requests, ensuring alignment with standard vertical solutions.

• Administer document management tools (Navex/PolicyTech) to maintain product design documentation, track approvals, and manage feature changes.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including IT, customers, operations, and engineers, to define and implement optimal WMS solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Product Design Manager," the responsibilities and required experience strongly indicate a role focused on Product Design within Operations, specifically for Warehouse Management Systems (WMS). This is not a typical product management role focused on market strategy or P&L, but rather an operational role focused on system implementation, configuration, and process optimization. The "Manager" title appears to be for leadership in design process and stakeholder engagement, rather than direct report management, as explicitly stated.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead requirements gathering sessions with diverse stakeholders (customers, operations, IT, superusers) to capture detailed business needs for WMS implementations.

• Translate complex business processes, customer touchpoints, and best practices into actionable WMS design specifications and documentation.

• Facilitate internal and external design discussions to ensure timely and accurate decision-making, leading to high-performing warehouse operations.

• Define the impact of integration data mapping, WMS processing, reporting, and warehouse layout on end-user experience and overall operational performance.

• Leverage deep understanding of Manhattan and Softeon WMS capabilities to design solutions that optimize 3PL warehouse operations.

• Develop and update comprehensive documentation, including Concept of Operations, Design Documents, and Business Requirements Documents (BRDs), for each account.

• Manage the intake and incorporation of user feedback to address underlying problems and improve system functionality.

• Propose and design efficient, best-practice product solutions that adapt to the evolving supply chain industry requirements.

• Establish Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and best practices that align with business needs, WMS capabilities, customer expectations, and compliance.

• Utilize NFI's document management system (PolicyTech/Navex) for documenting, reviewing, and approving design documents, ensuring proper version control.

• Create and maintain necessary design artifacts, such as process maps, SOPs, location files, slotting files, and report requirements matrices.

• Generate reviews and attestations within Navex to ensure sites are trained on released SOPs.

• Facilitate product innovation workshops to identify opportunities for improving system processes, workflows, and functional requirements.

• Compile lessons learned and user feedback from deployments to refine and improve template designs for specific business verticals.

• Conduct regular reviews of design and SOP documents to capture and incorporate business changes.

• Test new features during development and provide support to users by answering questions.

• Demo features, mockups, or prototypes to train users and gather valuable feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly define a role that bridges business operations and system configuration for WMS. The emphasis on documentation, stakeholder management, and process design within the context of specific WMS platforms (Manhattan, Softeon) is critical. The "Product Design Manager" title is more accurately described as a "WMS Solutions Designer" or "Operations Process Designer" within this context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Information Technology, Logistics, or a related field is recommended.

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience utilizing Manhattan WMS and/or Softeon WMS within a 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) environment.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a role focused on gathering business requirements from various stakeholders.

• Demonstrated history of integrating business insights into practical product (system) experiences.

• Proven experience translating complex business requirements into clear, documented process flows and Business Requirements Documents (BRDs). Required Skills:

• Proficiency with Manhattan WMS and/or Softeon WMS platforms in a 3PL context.

• Strong capabilities in requirements gathering and business process analysis.

• Expertise in developing and documenting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and operational workflows.

• Skilled in stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration.

• Ability to perform data mapping and understand its impact on WMS functionality.

• Experience with process mapping and creating visual representations of workflows.

• Familiarity with the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is highly desirable.

• Excellent technical and analytical problem-solving skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively on both technical and non-technical levels.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and/or Google Workspace.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage time effectively.

• Positive relationship-building skills to foster trust with business partners.

• Strong adherence to confidentiality practices. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with document management systems like Navex or PolicyTech.

• Knowledge of warehouse layout, flow optimization, and slotting strategies.

• Familiarity with WMS reporting capabilities and data analysis.

• Experience conducting product innovation workshops and user feedback sessions.

• Understanding of supply chain management principles and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Manager" in the title is clarified by the note that this position does not have direct reports. The emphasis is on leadership in the design process and technical expertise in WMS. The required experience levels (3+ years for WMS, 2+ years for requirements gathering) are well-defined and crucial for success in this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies: Prepare detailed case studies showcasing successful WMS implementation or optimization projects. Focus on how you gathered requirements, designed solutions, and the tangible business outcomes achieved (e.g., improved efficiency, reduced errors, increased throughput).

• Documentation Samples: Include examples of Business Requirements Documents (BRDs), Concept of Operations (ConOps) documents, process maps, and SOPs that you have developed. Highlight clarity, completeness, and adherence to best practices.

• System Configuration Examples (if applicable): If possible, provide anonymized examples or descriptions of how you configured specific WMS functionalities (e.g., slotting rules, inventory management processes, pick/pack/ship workflows) to meet business needs.

• Metrics and ROI: Demonstrate your ability to define key performance indicators (KPIs) for WMS operations and to quantify the return on investment (ROI) of implemented solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase examples of how you mapped existing workflows, identified bottlenecks, and designed optimized processes leveraging WMS capabilities.

• System Implementation & Automation: Provide evidence of your involvement in implementing WMS solutions, including user acceptance testing (UAT) and training documentation. Detail how automation was leveraged where appropriate.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Illustrate how you have used data and reporting from WMS to monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and report on operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations roles, a portfolio is crucial. This section outlines what NFI Industries would likely expect to see, emphasizing practical experience in requirements documentation, process mapping, and system configuration within a WMS context. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their portfolio during interviews.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000 - $110,000 per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans.

• 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match.

• Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Life Insurance and Disability coverage.

• Opportunities for professional development and training in WMS technologies and supply chain best practices.

• Potential for domestic travel to various NFI facilities.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, typically Monday through Friday, with flexibility to accommodate project needs and stakeholder availability. Occasional overtime may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for a Product Design Manager role with 2-5 years of experience in Austin, Texas, focusing on specialized WMS systems and operational responsibilities. This role requires deep technical knowledge of specific WMS platforms and a strong operational understanding, justifying a mid-to-high range salary for this experience level. Benefits are standard for a full-time position at a company of NFI Industries' size.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Logistics and Supply Chain Management (specifically focusing on warehousing and distribution). NFI Industries operates within a dynamic and demanding sector where efficiency, accuracy, and reliability are paramount. The company's success hinges on its ability to manage complex supply chains for its clients.

Company Size: NFI Industries is a large organization, likely employing over 5,000 individuals globally, with a significant presence in North America. This size indicates a structured environment with established processes and a broad scope of operations.

Founded: Founded in 1958, NFI Industries has a long history and deep expertise in the logistics sector, suggesting a culture that values experience, stability, and continuous adaptation to industry changes.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design Manager will be part of the Distribution Operations division, working closely with IT.

• The role reports to a Senior Manager or Director of Product Design, indicating a hierarchical structure within the operations and product design functions.

• Collaboration is expected with internal stakeholders (Operations, IT, Engineers) and external stakeholders (Customers, Superusers), highlighting a cross-functional team dynamic. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: The role requires analyzing business requirements and operational data to design effective WMS solutions.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: A core function involves mapping, analyzing, and optimizing warehouse workflows through WMS configuration and process design.

• Automation & Efficiency: The position is expected to identify and implement opportunities for automation within WMS to drive efficiency and profitability.

Company Website: https://careers.nfiindustries.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Given NFI's long history and size in the logistics industry, the culture likely emphasizes professionalism, operational excellence, and a customer-centric approach. The "Manager" title in operations often signifies responsibility for process ownership and stakeholder alignment rather than direct people management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level individual contributor position within the operations and technology domain. It requires specialized knowledge of WMS and operational processes, serving as a key link between business needs and system capabilities. The "Manager" aspect refers to the management of the design process and stakeholder engagement, not direct reports.

Reporting Structure: The Product Design Manager reports to a Senior Manager or Director of Product Design within Distribution Operations. This structure provides clear guidance and oversight, with opportunities to learn from more experienced leaders in the field.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts NFI's ability to secure and successfully onboard new clients by ensuring their WMS solutions are optimally designed. Effective WMS design leads to increased operational efficiency, reduced costs, improved accuracy, and enhanced customer satisfaction, all of which contribute to NFI's profitability and competitive advantage in the 3PL market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in Manhattan or Softeon WMS, potentially becoming a subject matter expert (SME) for specific modules or functionalities.

• Leadership Progression: Advance to Senior Product Design Manager, Director of Product Design, or roles in WMS Implementation Management, Operations Management, or IT solutions architecture within NFI.

• Skill Development: Gain exposure to various WMS implementations across different verticals, enhancing problem-solving and adaptability skills. Opportunities for training in project management methodologies and advanced supply chain technologies.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Potential to move into broader IT roles or senior operational management positions within NFI's extensive network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role is strongly tied to operational technology and process optimization within the logistics sector. Growth involves deepening WMS expertise or transitioning into broader operational or IT management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is on-site in Austin, Texas. The work environment is likely a professional office setting, potentially within a shared office space or a dedicated NFI office, designed to facilitate collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Austin, Texas, United States. This location offers access to a growing tech and logistics hub.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace where interaction with IT, operations teams, and potentially clients is frequent. This facilitates quick problem-solving and knowledge sharing.

• Tools and Technology: Access to standard office productivity tools (Microsoft Office/Google Suite) and specialized WMS/document management software (Manhattan, Softeon, Navex/PolicyTech).

• Team Interaction: Regular meetings, design reviews, and workshops with cross-functional teams are integral to the role.

Work Schedule: The role adheres to a standard 40-hour work week, primarily Monday through Friday. However, given the nature of client implementations and operational demands, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or address urgent operational issues, potentially involving occasional overtime or adjusted hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a preference for direct team collaboration and engagement with operational environments. Austin, Texas, is a competitive market for tech and operations talent.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and resume, focusing on WMS experience and requirements gathering skills.

• Technical/Functional Interview: Expect in-depth questions about your experience with Manhattan and/or Softeon WMS, your approach to requirements gathering, process design, and problem-solving. This stage may involve a technical assessment or case study.

• Portfolio Review: Be prepared to present and discuss specific examples from your portfolio that demonstrate your ability to design WMS solutions, document processes, and achieve operational improvements.

• Stakeholder/Manager Interview: Meet with the hiring manager (Senior Manager or Director of Product Design) and potentially key stakeholders from IT or operations to assess cultural fit, communication style, and strategic thinking.

• Final Interview: May involve a discussion with senior leadership to finalize the decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project or by skill (e.g., Requirements Gathering, Process Design, Documentation).

• Case Study Format: For each case study, clearly outline the problem, your role/approach, the solution designed, the implementation process, and the measurable results (KPIs, ROI). Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Documentation Samples: Ensure your documentation samples are clean, well-organized, and clearly illustrate your ability to articulate complex requirements and processes. Anonymize sensitive client data.

• Storytelling: Be prepared to verbally walk through your portfolio, highlighting key contributions and the impact of your work. Emphasize your problem-solving skills and ability to collaborate.

• Company Alignment: Tailor your portfolio presentation to highlight experiences most relevant to NFI's operations and WMS platforms.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions that present a hypothetical warehouse operational challenge and ask how you would approach designing a WMS solution or improving an existing process.

• Process Design Exercise: You might be asked to outline the steps involved in designing a specific WMS workflow (e.g., inbound receiving, order picking strategy) or to critique a given process.

• Stakeholder Communication: Practice explaining technical WMS concepts and operational impacts to non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical experience with WMS, requirements documentation, and process optimization is essential for this role. The interview process will likely focus heavily on evaluating these skills through case studies and direct questioning.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• WMS Platforms: Manhattan WMS, Softeon WMS (primary focus). Deep expertise in configuration, workflow design, and operational best practices for these systems is critical.

• Document Management Systems: Navex, PolicyTech (or similar enterprise-grade document control systems) for managing design documentation, SOPs, and change management processes.

• Productivity Suites: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio) and/or Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drawings) for documentation, analysis, and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• WMS Reporting Modules: Proficiency in leveraging built-in reporting features of Manhattan and Softeon to analyze operational performance, identify trends, and support data-driven decision-making.

• Data Analysis Tools (Basic): While not explicitly stated, familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and basic analysis will be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (Understanding): While not a CRM role, understanding how WMS integrates with or complements CRM data for customer order fulfillment is advantageous.

• Workflow Automation (Conceptual): Understanding how WMS functionalities can automate warehouse processes (e.g., pick path optimization, automated task assignment) is key.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around specific WMS platforms (Manhattan, Softeon) and document management tools (Navex). Candidates must demonstrate hands-on experience with these systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Efficiency & Productivity: A strong emphasis on optimizing workflows, reducing waste, and maximizing throughput within warehouse operations.

• Accuracy & Quality: Commitment to ensuring high levels of data integrity and operational accuracy to meet client expectations and compliance standards.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting the specific needs of NFI's clients through tailored WMS solutions and responsive service.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where teams work together effectively across departments (Operations, IT, Sales) to achieve common goals.

• Continuous Improvement: A proactive approach to identifying and implementing enhancements to processes, systems, and performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with IT for system implementation and support, and with Operations for understanding real-world challenges and ensuring practical solutions.

• Process Review Culture: An open environment for discussing and refining existing processes, encouraging feedback from all levels to drive improvements.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights across teams to build collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: NFI's culture, as a large, established logistics provider, likely values structured processes, reliability, and a results-oriented approach. The emphasis on collaboration is crucial for bridging the gap between operational needs and technological solutions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Diverse Client Needs: Adapting WMS solutions to meet the unique and evolving requirements of various clients within the 3PL space.

• System Integration Complexity: Ensuring smooth data flow and integration between WMS and other client or NFI systems.

• Balancing Standardization and Customization: Finding the right balance between leveraging standard vertical solutions and implementing necessary customizations without over-complicating the system.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with updates and new features within Manhattan and Softeon WMS, as well as broader supply chain technology trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• WMS Certifications: Opportunities to pursue advanced certifications or specialized training for Manhattan and Softeon WMS.

• Industry Conferences: Attendance at supply chain and logistics technology conferences to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Guidance from senior leaders within Distribution Operations and IT, offering insights into strategic planning and complex problem-solving.

• Cross-functional Projects: Involvement in diverse projects that broaden understanding of different operational areas and technology applications within NFI.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges lie in managing the complexity of WMS implementations and adapting solutions to diverse client needs within the fast-paced logistics industry. Growth opportunities are well-defined within WMS specialization and operational leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to gather requirements from a difficult stakeholder. How did you manage the situation and ensure you captured their needs accurately?" (Focus on stakeholder management, active listening, and documentation).

• "Walk me through your process for designing a new WMS workflow, from initial concept to final documentation. What tools do you use?" (Highlight your structured approach, process mapping, and documentation standards).

• "How do you approach identifying and mitigating risks associated with a new WMS implementation or change request?" (Demonstrate proactive problem-solving and risk assessment). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about NFI Industries and our role in the logistics/3PL sector?" (Research NFI's services, client base, and recent news).

• "How do you see your role contributing to NFI's operational efficiency and profitability goals?" (Connect your skills in WMS design to business outcomes like cost reduction, speed, and accuracy).

• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you collaborate with IT and Operations teams." (Emphasize teamwork, communication, and a shared commitment to goals). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Impact: For each portfolio item, clearly articulate the problem statement, your specific contribution, the solution you designed or implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., "Reduced picking errors by 15%", "Improved order fulfillment time by 10%").

• WMS Specificity: Emphasize your experience with Manhattan and Softeon, detailing specific configurations or process designs you implemented.

• Documentation Clarity: Showcase your ability to create clear, concise, and comprehensive documentation (BRDs, SOPs, process maps).

• Stakeholder Engagement: Be ready to discuss how you managed communication and gained buy-in from various stakeholders throughout a project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical, hands-on experience with WMS, strong analytical and documentation skills, and the ability to translate business needs into effective operational solutions. Your portfolio is your primary tool for showcasing this.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the NFI Industries careers portal (https://careers.nfiindustries.com).

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that clearly showcases your experience with Manhattan and/or Softeon WMS, including samples of Business Requirements Documents (BRDs), SOPs, process maps, and case studies detailing your design process and achieved results. Quantify your impact whenever possible.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Manhattan WMS," "Softeon WMS," "requirements gathering," "3PL," "warehouse operations," "process design," and "document management." Focus on quantifiable achievements.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail and practice answering common interview questions related to WMS functionality, process optimization, stakeholder management, and problem-solving.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research NFI Industries, its services, its position in the logistics market, and its operational focus to demonstrate your understanding and interest.

⚠️ 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.