Product Designer (Acoustics)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer (Acoustics)

Company: UPLIFT Desk

Location: Austin, Texas, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Product Design / Engineering Operations

Date Posted: May 01, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design and development of acoustic products, from initial concept through to production-ready documentation.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineering and sourcing, to ensure designs meet structural, manufacturing, and cost requirements.

• Define and evolve the design language and aesthetic of the acoustic product line, ensuring visual cohesion and market relevance.

• Drive innovation in acoustic solutions by researching and testing new materials, manufacturing processes, and installation systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for expanding UPLIFT Desk's product portfolio into acoustic solutions, requiring a blend of industrial design expertise and specialized knowledge in acoustics and manufacturing. It sits within a product development function that heavily influences GTM strategy through innovative product offerings.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the complete design lifecycle for acoustic products, from ideation and concept development through detailed design, prototyping, and production readiness.

• Develop and maintain a cohesive design language and aesthetic for the acoustic product line, ensuring brand consistency and market appeal.

• Create detailed 3D models using SolidWorks and produce high-quality visualizations with KeyShot and Adobe Creative Suite for design reviews and marketing materials.

• Conduct thorough research and testing of materials, focusing on acoustic performance, durability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability (e.g., PET felt, acoustic composites).

• Design innovative, modular, and user-friendly installation systems and hardware components for acoustic products.

• Ensure all product designs adhere to structural integrity, manufacturing feasibility, cost targets, and scalability requirements.

• Work closely with engineering teams to translate designs into manufacturable solutions and with sourcing teams to identify and evaluate potential manufacturing partners.

• Monitor industry trends, competitor products, and emerging workplace design concepts to inform product strategy and identify new opportunities for innovation.

• Prepare and deliver comprehensive production-ready CAD files and engineering documentation for manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to product development, requiring the candidate to not only design but also to deeply understand the technical and business aspects of bringing acoustic products to market, including partner identification and market analysis.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field is typically expected for a role with this level of responsibility and experience.

Experience: 5+ years of progressive product design experience, with a significant focus on acoustic products, sound-absorbing materials, or similar categories within furniture, architectural systems, or workspace solutions.

Required Skills:

• 5+ years of product design experience, with a focus on acoustic products or similar categories.

• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD software, specifically SolidWorks.

• High-level proficiency in visualization tools such as KeyShot and the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Solid understanding of acoustic principles, including sound absorption, diffusion, and material properties relevant to acoustics.

• Proven experience in designing for manufacturing (DFM), considering materials, production processes, cost constraints, and scalability.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct material exploration and testing for functional and aesthetic outcomes.

• A strong portfolio showcasing a range of product designs, with emphasis on acoustic solutions, design thinking, material innovation, and successful execution from concept to production.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience designing modular systems or workspace products.

• Knowledge of sustainable or recycled materials, such as PET felt, acoustic composites, or other eco-friendly alternatives.

• Experience working with global manufacturers or suppliers, understanding international production standards and logistics.

• Familiarity with installation systems, hardware design, and assembly processes.

• Awareness of current workplace, interior design, and architectural trends.

• Previous experience specifically with acoustic panels, architectural systems, or furniture design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Bonus Points For" section directly translates into preferred skills. The emphasis on a portfolio and specific software proficiency underscores the practical, execution-oriented nature of this role. The required experience level suggests a need for demonstrated leadership in design projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio is mandatory for application, showcasing a minimum of 5 years of relevant product design work.

• Emphasis on projects involving acoustic products, sound absorption, or noise reduction solutions.

• Demonstrations of strong design thinking, including problem definition, ideation, concept development, and user-centered design principles.

• Detailed case studies on material exploration and innovation, highlighting the selection process and rationale for chosen materials.

• Clear examples of execution from initial concept sketches and 3D models to functional prototypes and production-ready designs.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase a systematic approach to the design process, from concept generation through to final engineering documentation.

• Include examples of how you have translated acoustic performance requirements into tangible design features and material specifications.

• Detail your methodology for collaborating with engineering and manufacturing teams to ensure design for manufacturability (DFM) and cost-efficiency.

• Demonstrate experience in creating detailed CAD models and engineering drawings suitable for production.

• Highlight any experience in developing or refining installation systems and hardware for ease of use and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirement is explicitly stated as mandatory and critical. The emphasis is on demonstrating a structured, end-to-end design process with a specific focus on acoustic performance, material science, and manufacturability, which are key for operations and product development alignment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $90,000+ DOE (Depending on Experience) Based on the provided information, the base salary starts at $90,000. Given the 5-10 years of experience requirement and the specialized nature of acoustic design, candidates with extensive experience, a strong portfolio, and relevant preferred skills could command a higher salary. For Austin, Texas, a Product Designer with 5-10 years of experience in a niche area like acoustics could range from $95,000 to $130,000+ annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for product design roles in major tech hubs and compensation data for specialized engineering and design positions.

Benefits:

• A merit-based environment that rewards growth and accomplishment, fostering a results-oriented culture.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) to support work-life balance.

• 4% 401K company matching with instant vesting after one year of employment.

• Comprehensive group health insurance options, including medical, two dental plans, and a vision plan, available for employees and dependents, including domestic partners.

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for health care and child care expenses, offering pre-tax savings.

• Company-paid and supplementary Life Insurance, as well as Long-term & Short-term disability coverage.

• A complimentary UPLIFT Desk provided to employees after one year of service.

• Significant discount (50%) on all UPLIFT products, encouraging employees to experience the brand's offerings.

• On-site amenities including free healthy (and not-so-healthy) snacks and drinks.

• Opportunities for on-the-job training and continuous skills development.

• A supportive and engaging work culture that actively promotes healthy living and well-being.

Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 8am-5pm, totaling 40 hours per week. The role is on-site, indicating a structured work schedule within the Austin, Texas office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on the provided minimum and general industry data for similar roles in Austin. The benefits package is extensive, highlighting UPLIFT Desk's commitment to employee well-being, professional development, and work-life balance, which are attractive aspects for operations professionals seeking stability and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: E-commerce (Direct-to-Consumer - DTC), Furniture, Ergonomics, Office Solutions. UPLIFT Desk operates in a rapidly growing market driven by increased awareness of health, productivity, and well-being in the workplace. Their success in this space is underpinned by a strong focus on innovation and customer experience.

Company Size: Mid-sized (The description mentions "fast growing, mid-sized DTC brand company" and "hundreds of thousands of happy customers," suggesting a company with substantial operations but still retaining agility. This often means a lean structure where individuals can have significant impact).

Founded: While the exact founding year isn't provided, the company's longevity and awards (e.g., "Best Standing Desk by New York Times Wirecutter 9 years in a row") indicate a well-established and reputable brand with a mature product development and GTM strategy.

Team Structure:

• The Product Development team, within which this role resides, is responsible for designing and innovating new products.

• This team likely collaborates closely with Engineering, Sourcing, Marketing, Sales, and Operations/Warehouse teams.

• The structure is likely cross-functional, with designers working alongside engineers and product managers to bring products from concept to customer.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Product Development: UPLIFT Desk emphasizes customer obsession and results orientation, suggesting that product decisions are informed by customer feedback, market analysis, and performance metrics (e.g., sales data, warranty claims, reviews).

• Process Optimization: The company's focus on efficiency, from same-day shipping to solar-powered operations, implies a culture that values streamlined processes and continuous improvement across all departments, including product design and manufacturing.

• Innovation & Iteration: The consistent awards and product line expansion indicate a commitment to innovation and a willingness to iterate on designs and materials to achieve optimal performance and customer satisfaction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is defined by its core values (Customer Obsession, Innovation, Accountability, Results Oriented) and its commitment to sustainability and employee well-being. This context is vital for operations professionals who thrive in environments that value efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and continuous improvement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a senior Product Designer with specialized expertise in acoustics. It represents a mid-to-senior level position within the product development function. The expectation is for the individual to lead design projects independently, from ideation through to production, and to contribute significantly to the product strategy for the acoustic line. This role requires a blend of creative design skills, technical acumen in acoustics and manufacturing, and project management capabilities.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer (Acoustics) will likely report to a Product Development Manager, Director of Product Development, or Head of Design. They will work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including engineers, sourcing specialists, marketing, and potentially operations leads responsible for supply chain and manufacturing partnerships.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on UPLIFT Desk's revenue and growth by expanding their product offerings into the acoustic solutions market. Successful product designs will drive new sales, enhance brand perception, and potentially create new revenue streams. The efficiency and manufacturability of the designs will also impact the cost of goods sold (COGS) and overall operational efficiency of the supply chain.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization & Leadership: Opportunity to become the subject matter expert for acoustic products within the company, potentially leading future acoustic product initiatives or a small design team focused on this area.

• Broader Product Design Experience: Gain exposure to a wider range of workspace products and materials, deepening expertise in industrial design and ergonomics within the DTC furniture sector.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Develop a deeper understanding of supply chain management, manufacturing partnerships, and Go-to-Market (GTM) strategies through close collaboration with engineering, sourcing, and marketing teams.

• Industry Recognition: Contribute to award-winning product lines, enhancing professional reputation and potential for future career advancement in the design and furniture industries.

• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior designers or interns as the team grows.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for specialization and leadership within a growing product category. The emphasis on delivering tangible products that drive revenue and impact operational efficiency makes it attractive for operations-minded designers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is specified as "On-site" in Austin, Texas. This suggests a physical workspace within UPLIFT Desk's facilities, which likely include design studios, prototyping labs, and office environments for collaborative work.

Office Location(s): 1848 Ferguson Ln, Austin, TX 78754. This location is within a business/industrial park area, typical for companies with manufacturing, warehousing, and R&D operations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: As part of a product development team, expect a dynamic and collaborative workspace where interaction with engineers, product managers, and potentially marketing personnel is frequent and encouraged.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (SolidWorks, KeyShot, Adobe Creative Suite), potentially prototyping equipment, and a well-equipped design studio.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, design reviews, brainstorming sessions, and cross-functional project discussions, fostering a culture of shared problem-solving and innovation.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm) provides a consistent schedule. While on-site, UPLIFT Desk's culture of promoting healthy living and employee well-being might translate to a supportive approach to work-life integration where possible, though the core hours are fixed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement indicates a preference for hands-on collaboration and access to physical resources. The Austin location places the role within a vibrant tech and design hub.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and a mandatory portfolio submission. The portfolio is the primary tool for initial evaluation, assessing design skills, acoustic knowledge, and manufacturability expertise.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on design process, acoustic principles, material science, SolidWorks proficiency, and experience with manufacturing. Expect detailed questions about past projects and challenges encountered.

• Design Challenge/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a specific project from their portfolio in detail, explaining design choices, problem-solving approaches, and outcomes, or to tackle a hypothetical design problem relevant to acoustic products.

• Cross-Functional Team Interviews: Meetings with engineers, sourcing managers, and potentially marketing or product managers to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and ability to integrate design with business and technical requirements.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion to gauge alignment with UPLIFT Desk's core values (Customer Obsession, Innovation, Accountability, Results Oriented) and overall work environment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on quality over quantity. Showcase 3-5 of your strongest projects that best align with the requirements of this role, particularly those involving acoustics, material innovation, and manufacturing considerations.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role and process, key design decisions (especially regarding acoustics and materials), challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the final outcome or impact. Use visuals effectively to support your narrative.

• Highlight Acoustic Expertise: Dedicate sections or specific projects to demonstrate your understanding of acoustic principles and how you applied them in your designs. Include any testing, simulation, or performance data if available.

• Showcase DFM Skills: Include examples of designs where you considered manufacturing constraints, cost targets, and scalability. Detail any work with manufacturers or supplier collaboration.

• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your 3D models and renderings are clean and professional. Be prepared to discuss your workflow in SolidWorks and visualization tools.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Acoustic Fundamentals: Refresh your knowledge on sound absorption coefficients, NRC ratings, STC ratings, diffusion, and common acoustic materials.

• DFM Principles: Review core concepts of designing for injection molding, CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, and material limitations.

• UPLIFT Desk Products: Familiarize yourself with UPLIFT Desk's existing product line and their brand aesthetic. Consider how acoustic products would fit into their ecosystem.

• Sustainability: Be ready to discuss your approach to sustainable material selection and eco-friendly design practices, as this is a company value.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is heavily weighted towards portfolio review and technical assessment, reflecting the specialized nature of the role. Candidates should prepare to deeply discuss their design process and technical expertise.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Software: SolidWorks (mandatory proficiency). This is essential for creating detailed product models, assemblies, and engineering drawings.

• Visualization Tools: KeyShot (strong proficiency expected) and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for creating realistic renderings, mockups, and marketing visuals.

• Prototyping Tools: Experience with various prototyping methods (e.g., 3D printing, CNC machining, hand fabrication) to create physical models for testing and review.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• This role is not directly involved in CRM or sales automation, but an understanding of how product design impacts sales performance and customer satisfaction through the CRM system is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in SolidWorks and KeyShot is a non-negotiable technical requirement. The emphasis on these tools highlights the hands-on, technical nature of the design work.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Obsession: Design decisions must prioritize customer needs, comfort, productivity, and well-being, aligning with UPLIFT Desk's mission to enhance workspaces.

• Innovation: A continuous drive to explore new materials, technologies, and design approaches to create cutting-edge acoustic solutions that differentiate UPLIFT Desk in the market.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of the entire design process, from concept to production, and being responsible for the quality, manufacturability, and performance of the products.

• Results Oriented: Focusing on delivering tangible outcomes, such as successful product launches, improved acoustic performance, cost efficiencies, and positive customer impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with engineering (for technical feasibility), sourcing (for material and manufacturing partnerships), and marketing (for product positioning and GTM strategy).

• Process Review and Feedback: An open culture for constructive feedback during design reviews, material testing, and prototype evaluations to refine designs and ensure optimal outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of insights on acoustic principles, material science, manufacturing techniques, and market trends within the product development team and beyond.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values are deeply integrated into its operations and expected from employees. For a Product Designer, this means a commitment to customer satisfaction, a proactive approach to innovation, taking ownership of projects, and focusing on measurable results, all of which are critical for success in operations-adjacent roles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Acoustic Performance with Design Aesthetics and Cost: Achieving optimal sound absorption while maintaining a visually appealing design and meeting target manufacturing costs can be a complex trade-off.

• Material Sourcing and Sustainability: Identifying and sourcing innovative, sustainable acoustic materials that meet performance requirements and are cost-effective for mass production.

• Manufacturing Feasibility for Complex Shapes: Designing acoustic elements that may involve complex geometries or unique material constructions and ensuring they can be manufactured efficiently and at scale.

• Market Differentiation: Creating acoustic products that stand out in an increasingly crowded market for workspace solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Acoustic Design: Deepen expertise in acoustic engineering principles, simulation software, and advanced material science through hands-on project work and potential external training.

• Sustainable Material Innovation: Explore and gain expertise in the growing field of sustainable materials for furniture and architectural applications.

• Supply Chain & Manufacturing Processes: Develop a more comprehensive understanding of global manufacturing, supply chain logistics, and partner management through close collaboration with the sourcing team.

• Product Strategy: Contribute to the strategic direction of UPLIFT Desk's acoustic product line, gaining experience in market analysis and product roadmap development.

• Industry Conferences: Potential to attend industry trade shows and conferences related to furniture design, acoustics, or sustainable materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to product development in a specialized field, offering opportunities for significant professional growth and problem-solving. The learning opportunities are geared towards enhancing technical expertise and strategic product development skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for designing an acoustic product from concept to production. Walk me through a specific example from your portfolio." (Focus on demonstrating a structured approach, problem-solving, and technical detail.)

• "How do you balance acoustic performance requirements with aesthetic design goals and manufacturing cost constraints? Provide an example." (Assess your ability to manage trade-offs and find optimal solutions.)

• "What are the key considerations when selecting materials for acoustic applications? How do you evaluate sustainability and manufacturability within those choices?" (Test your knowledge of materials and your alignment with company values.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about UPLIFT Desk and our mission, particularly our focus on acoustics and sustainability?" (Showcase your research and alignment with company values.)

• "How do you incorporate customer feedback into your design process?" (Demonstrate your commitment to customer obsession.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio presentation logically, starting with an overview of UPLIFT Desk's business and your role. For each project, clearly state the objective, your specific contributions, the design process, key decisions, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, renderings, and CAD screenshots. If possible, include short videos or interactive 3D models.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, emphasizing the "why" behind your design choices, especially concerning acoustics and materials.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your designs, including material properties, manufacturing methods, and acoustic principles.

• Conciseness: Practice your presentation to ensure it fits within the allotted time, focusing on the most impactful details.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of acoustic design principles, manufacturing processes, and how these integrate with business objectives. The portfolio is central to the evaluation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer (Acoustics) position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the UPLIFT Desk careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects that specifically demonstrate your expertise in acoustic design, material innovation, and design for manufacturing. Ensure it aligns with UPLIFT Desk's product aesthetic and values.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 5+ years of relevant experience, focusing on achievements related to acoustic product development, SolidWorks proficiency, and successful product launches. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, preparing to discuss your design process, technical skills, and how you embody UPLIFT Desk's core values. Be ready to answer strategic and behavioral questions with specific examples.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research UPLIFT Desk's mission, products, sustainability initiatives, and customer reviews. Understand their market position and how acoustic products fit into their overall strategy.

⚠️ 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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