Product Development Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Development Framer

Company: American Leather Operations LLC

Location: Dallas, TX, US

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Manufacturing / Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-27

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the foundational aspects of product development within a furniture manufacturing environment, specifically the assembly of wood frames.

• It requires hands-on proficiency with hand and power tools for precise construction, directly impacting the quality and integrity of the final product.

• The position involves interpreting technical diagrams and collaborating with production teams to ensure accurate and efficient frame assembly processes.

• This is a critical role in the manufacturing workflow, contributing to the creation of high-quality, custom furniture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The title "Product Development Framer" suggests a role that is integral to the early stages of manufacturing new furniture designs. While the core tasks are hands-on frame assembly, the "Product Development" aspect implies a need for attention to detail, adherence to specifications, and potentially providing feedback on design or assembly processes. The experience level is noted as Entry-Level, indicating that foundational skills and a willingness to learn are prioritized over extensive prior experience.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Safely and efficiently assemble wood frames for custom furniture according to style and SKU diagrams, ensuring adherence to product specifications.

• Operate various hand tools, nail guns, and staple guns with precision and care to join wood components.

• Receive and sort cut plywood from the router operator, preparing materials for assembly.

• Read and interpret technical diagrams and drawings to determine the correct procedures for attaching parts and constructing frames.

• Monitor and report any rejected or non-conforming parts to the supervisor, facilitating quality control.

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area, adhering to all safety protocols and using required personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Provide feedback and instructions to the Woodshop regarding new styles and framing methods to optimize manufacturing processes.

• Collaborate effectively with other departments and team members to ensure seamless workflow and production efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a direct involvement in the manufacturing process, emphasizing both manual skill and the ability to follow technical instructions. The instruction to the Woodshop suggests a potential for input into process improvement, even at an entry-level, which is a valuable aspect for operations-minded candidates.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific educational requirements are listed, a strong understanding of technical diagrams and instructions is essential, suggesting that a high school diploma or equivalent is likely preferred.

Experience: A minimum of six months of direct production or framing experience is required, demonstrating a foundational understanding of manufacturing environments and basic assembly techniques.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in operating hand tools and power tools, specifically including nail guns and staple guns.

• Demonstrated manual dexterity and coordination for precise tool operation and assembly.

• Ability to read and interpret technical diagrams, blueprints, and drawings accurately.

• Capacity to work independently with minimal supervision, managing tasks efficiently.

• Strong attention to detail to ensure precision in frame construction and adherence to specifications.

• Ability to work collaboratively with team members and across different departments.

• Flexibility to adapt to changing work schedules and production demands, including potential overtime.

• Physical stamina to perform demanding tasks, including continuous standing, lifting, and bending for extended periods.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in furniture manufacturing or woodworking.

• Familiarity with different types of wood and their properties.

• Basic understanding of lean manufacturing principles or process efficiency.

• Proactive communication skills for reporting issues and providing feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on manual dexterity, tool operation, and diagram reading points towards a role that values practical skills. The ability to work independently and collaboratively, coupled with adaptability to changing demands, are key operational competencies for this position.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of past work that demonstrate their ability to follow technical specifications and execute precise assembly tasks.

• Highlighting any experience with process documentation or feedback on manufacturing workflows would be beneficial, even if informal.

• Demonstrate an understanding of quality control principles through examples of attention to detail and error reporting in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of assembly processes and how they ensure consistency and quality.

• While formal documentation is not expected, an ability to articulate the steps involved in frame assembly and identify potential areas for process improvement is valuable.

• Discussing how to maintain a clean and organized workspace as part of a defined production process is relevant.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this hands-on role, a traditional "operations portfolio" is less common. Instead, candidates should focus on articulating their practical skills, understanding of manufacturing processes, and ability to follow technical instructions. Any evidence of contributing to process efficiency or quality control, even through informal means, should be prepared for discussion.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for Production Framers in Dallas, TX, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated hourly wage typically falls between $15.00 - $18.00. This is subject to change based on the specific company's compensation structure, the candidate's demonstrated skills, and current market conditions.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance options.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match, supporting long-term financial planning.

• Monthly bonus incentive opportunities, rewarding performance and contribution to production goals.

• Access to an on-site health and wellness center, promoting employee well-being.

• Free training and exercise classes, encouraging a healthy lifestyle and continuous development.

• Opportunities for career growth within an industry-leading manufacturer.

• Positive and diverse work environment.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position requiring 40 hours per week, with flexibility for overtime as production demands dictate.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on research of similar manufacturing roles in the Dallas, Texas area, considering the stated entry-level experience requirement and the nature of the work. The provided benefits are extensive and align with a company that values employee well-being and professional development, which can be attractive for operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Manufacturing. American Leather operates in a competitive market, known for producing premium custom furniture, which requires a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, quality control, and efficient production processes.

Company Size: American Leather is a significant employer, likely falling into the "Large" category (500+ employees), indicating a structured organization with established operational procedures.

Founded: The company was founded to bring innovation to furniture manufacturing, suggesting a culture that values both tradition and forward-thinking approaches to design and production.

Team Structure:

• The Product Development Framer will be part of the Product Development team, likely reporting to a Product Development Manager or a Woodshop Supervisor.

• This role involves daily interaction with other framers, router operators, and potentially designers or product engineers.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a data-driven approach to product development and manufacturing, focusing on efficiency and quality.

• Workflows are likely standardized to ensure consistency in custom furniture production, with an emphasis on adhering to precise specifications derived from customer orders and design plans.

• Continuous improvement in assembly techniques and material utilization is a key aspect of maintaining a competitive edge.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "premium custom furniture" implies a high standard for quality and attention to detail, which should be reflected in the candidate's approach. The "award-winning" status suggests a culture that values excellence and innovation. The location in Southwest Dallas indicates a manufacturing hub environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the entry-level within the operations and manufacturing sector. It serves as a foundational position for individuals seeking to build a career in furniture production and product development.

Reporting Structure: The Product Development Framer will report to a supervisor within the Product Development or Woodshop department, likely overseen by a Product Development Manager. This structure allows for direct guidance and feedback on performance and skill development.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the company's ability to deliver high-quality, on-time custom furniture. Accurate and efficient frame assembly is a critical first step in the manufacturing process, influencing the overall product quality, production timelines, and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a master framer, specializing in complex designs or specific materials.

• Process Improvement: Potential to move into roles that involve optimizing framing techniques, material usage, or workflow efficiency within the woodshop.

• Leadership Track: With experience and demonstrated leadership capabilities, progression to a Team Lead or Woodshop Supervisor position is possible.

• Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn other aspects of furniture manufacturing, broadening skill sets and career options within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role offers a clear path for hands-on skill development and a potential progression into supervisory or process improvement roles within a manufacturing setting. The emphasis on "career growth opportunities" in the benefits section reinforces this.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position within a manufacturing facility. The work environment is primarily a production floor, which is described as non-climate controlled.

Office Location(s): The position is located in Southwest Dallas, TX, near Mountain Creek Parkway and Interstate 20. This is a manufacturing-focused area of the city.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace involves a production floor environment that requires physical stamina and the ability to work in varying temperatures.

• Access to necessary hand and power tools, as well as raw materials like cut plywood, will be provided.

• Emphasis on safety is paramount, with requirements for using PPE such as protective eyewear, earplugs, and safety gloves.

• Opportunities for interaction will be primarily with fellow production team members, supervisors, and potentially quality control personnel.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, with the expectation of flexibility for overtime as production needs arise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a physically demanding role in a non-climate controlled manufacturing setting. The emphasis on safety and the need for physical exertion are key aspects of this work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Candidates are expected to submit their application through the provided ADP portal.

• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will review applications for minimum qualifications, including the required production/framing experience and ability to read diagrams.

• Skills Assessment: A practical assessment or interview may be conducted to evaluate manual dexterity, tool operation proficiency, and the ability to interpret assembly diagrams.

• Manager Interview: The hiring manager will likely discuss past experience, work ethic, ability to work in a team, and understanding of production environments.

• On-site Tour/Meet-and-Greet: Potential candidates may tour the facility to understand the work environment and meet key team members.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with tools and assembly.

• For any past projects, focus on demonstrating precision, adherence to instructions, and quality of workmanship.

• If applicable, bring photos or descriptions of previous framing work, emphasizing the complexity or scale.

Challenge Preparation:

• Candidates may be asked to demonstrate their ability to use specific tools (e.g., a nail gun) safely and effectively on a mock assembly.

• A practical test might involve assembling a simple frame component based on a provided diagram.

• Be prepared to answer questions about safety procedures in a production environment and how you handle physical demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be heavily focused on practical skills and the ability to perform the core job functions safely and efficiently. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their hands-on capabilities and understanding of manufacturing processes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Hand Tools: Hammers, measuring tapes, levels, clamps, utility knives.

• Power Tools: Nail guns (various types), staple guns, potentially routers, saws (if involved in minor cutting/fitting).

• Material Handling: Plywood sheets, wood components.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• No direct interaction with CRM or automation systems is expected for this specific role. The focus is on manual assembly within a defined production workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily manual tools and basic power tools. Familiarity with these is essential. The "operations" aspect here is in the efficient and accurate use of these tools within a production system.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship & Quality: A strong emphasis on producing high-quality, durable furniture that meets premium standards.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of one's work, ensuring tasks are completed accurately and on time.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in all aspects of work, from assembly precision to workplace safety.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve collective production goals.

• Safety: Prioritizing a safe working environment for oneself and others through adherence to protocols.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates with a strong sense of shared responsibility for meeting production targets.

• Communication is direct and task-oriented, ensuring clarity on assembly requirements and material flow.

• A culture that supports learning and feedback, particularly regarding new styles and framing methods, is present.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values hands-on skill, dedication to quality, and a collaborative, safety-conscious approach. Candidates who can demonstrate these values will be a strong fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical exertion, including prolonged standing, lifting, and bending in a non-climate controlled environment.

• Precision Requirements: Consistently meeting high standards for frame accuracy and quality, especially with custom designs, can be challenging.

• Adapting to Production Demands: Flexibility to work varying schedules and overtime to meet production deadlines is essential.

• Safety Awareness: Maintaining constant vigilance regarding safety protocols in a production setting with power tools.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mastery of Craft: Deepen expertise in woodworking and furniture frame construction techniques.

• Process Optimization: Gain insights into improving assembly efficiency and material utilization.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Learn about other stages of furniture manufacturing, from material preparation to finishing.

• Team Leadership: Potential to develop into a team lead or supervisory role through demonstrated performance and leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are primarily physical and related to maintaining high standards in a demanding environment. Growth opportunities are centered around developing specialized skills and progressing within the manufacturing operations hierarchy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with hand and power tools, specifically nail guns and staple guns. What safety precautions do you always take?" (Focus on practical experience and safety consciousness.)

• "How do you ensure accuracy when assembling components based on technical diagrams or blueprints?" (Highlight attention to detail and interpretation skills.)

• "Tell me about a time you had to adapt to a changing work schedule or production deadline. How did you handle it?" (Showcase flexibility and work ethic.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about American Leather and our commitment to quality custom furniture?" (Research the company's mission and values.)

• "How do you feel about working in a non-climate controlled environment? What are your strategies for managing physical demands?" (Address physical requirements directly.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If discussing past work, focus on readiness to demonstrate practical skills. Prepare to walk through the process of assembling a simple frame component if asked.

• Highlight your understanding of how foundational assembly impacts the final product's quality and customer satisfaction.

• Be ready to articulate your approach to problem-solving if you encounter an issue during assembly, such as a faulty part or a confusing diagram.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical skills, a strong work ethic, safety consciousness, and an understanding of the physical demands of the role within a manufacturing setting.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the ADP portal linked in the job posting.

• Resume Tailoring: Ensure your resume clearly highlights any experience with production, assembly, woodworking, or operating hand/power tools. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assembled X frames per shift").

• Skills Demonstration: Be prepared to discuss and potentially demonstrate your proficiency with tools like nail guns and staple guns. Mention your ability to read technical diagrams.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with American Leather's products and reputation for quality. Understand their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.

• Prepare for Practical Questions: Anticipate questions about your physical capabilities, experience in manufacturing, and approach to safety and quality control.

⚠️ 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.

---