Project Design Manager - Commercial Millwork

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Project Design Manager - Commercial Millwork

Company: Anton Cabinetry

Location: Pantego, Texas, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations - Design & Project Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-31

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the end-to-end project design lifecycle for commercial millwork, ensuring solutions meet client specifications and internal standards.

• Manage and develop architectural shop, CNC machine, production, and installation drawings using specialized software.

• Collaborate closely with project managers to ensure seamless project execution from design to installation.

• Drive value engineering by recommending design and material alternatives that enhance functionality and cost-effectiveness.

• Lead and mentor CAD Product Designers, ensuring the quality and accuracy of their output, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives within the engineering team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges design, project management, and operational execution within the specialized field of commercial millwork. The "Project Design Manager" title implies a blend of technical design proficiency and the ability to manage projects and teams, focusing on the operational efficiency and quality of the design output. The emphasis on "Commercial Millwork" and "Architectural Casework" indicates a need for deep industry-specific knowledge.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage, develop, and modify architectural shop drawings, CNC machine drawings, production drawings, and installation drawings using various CAD software.

• Partner strategically with Project Managers to ensure successful project conceptualization, design, and execution, fostering strong cross-functional collaboration.

• Collaborate effectively with customers and internal stakeholders on design concepts, technical requirements, and project scope, ensuring alignment and clear communication.

• Recommend design and material alternatives to meet client specifications, uphold quality standards, adhere to production limitations, ensure functionality, and achieve value engineering objectives.

• Develop and modify accurate cut-lists, CNC drawings, product drawings, material lists, product lists, and work orders directly based on intricate project specifications.

• Provide comprehensive training and ongoing support for new engineering team members, reinforcing compliance with established company standards and best practices.

• Review, approve, and monitor the output of team members, ensuring adherence to specifications, quality standards, safety protocols, and aesthetic requirements for each assigned job.

• Assist in the coordination of engineering team members and subcontractors for assigned projects, facilitating smooth workflow and resource allocation.

• Participate actively in continuous improvement activities aimed at enhancing engineering processes, design workflows, and overall company operational efficiency.

• Manage project design responsibilities for multiple concurrent projects, requiring strong prioritization and time management skills.

• Complete complex designing and drafting assignments with a focus on accuracy and technical precision.

• Maintain organized and compliant job engineering files for all drawings, adhering to established company and engineering standards for documentation.

• Occasionally travel to job sites for essential field verification, project meetings, and to gather necessary project-specific data.

• Undertake and complete other assigned projects as directed by management, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to contribute across various operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on management role with significant technical depth. The inclusion of "CNC machine drawings," "cut-list development," and "value engineering" points to a strong focus on manufacturing efficiency and cost optimization, which are critical in the millwork industry. The emphasis on managing team output and continuous improvement suggests a managerial component to the role beyond individual contribution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong foundation in technical drawing, design principles, or a related field is implied by the responsibilities. Candidates with vocational training, certifications, or extensive experience in architectural millwork design will be highly regarded.

Experience: A minimum of 3 years of direct experience working with Architectural Casework and Millwork is a fundamental requirement. This experience should encompass a deep understanding of the design, fabrication, and installation processes within this specialized industry.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting architectural plans and detailed specifications to translate design intent into buildable shop drawings.

• Strong understanding of layout principles, shop drawing conventions, and construction drawing standards specifically for customized commercial millwork and casework.

• Advanced proficiency using AutoCAD software, coupled with a solid grasp of fundamental drafting and engineering principles, industry standards, and technical terminology.

• Excellent personal computer skills within a network environment, including advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) for documentation, communication, and data management.

• Comprehensive understanding of woodworking materials, common manufacturing methods, and industry-standard installation techniques for millwork projects.

• Ability to interact tactfully and effectively with a diverse range of individuals, including clients, project managers, production teams, and subcontractors, through in-person communication, telephone, and written correspondence.

• Exceptional organizational skills, with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and maintain productivity amidst numerous interruptions and shifting project priorities.

• Strong research capabilities, coupled with robust problem-solving and decision-making skills, demonstrating a keen attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.

• Skill and accuracy in applying mathematical concepts and performing calculations essential for material estimation, layout, and fabrication planning.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively under strict deadlines and consistently excel under pressure, maintaining high-quality output.

• Proactive initiative and a demonstrated self-starter attitude, taking ownership of tasks and driving them to completion without constant supervision. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specialized millwork design and CAM software such as Cut-Rite, WoodWOP, WoodCAD/CAM, CabinetVision, Microvellum, or Inventor.

• Familiarity with Bluebeam software for document management and collaboration, or experience with ShopPak or similar ERP software for production tracking and management.

• Understanding of Architectural Woodworking Institute (AWI) Standards, demonstrating a commitment to industry best practices and quality benchmarks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The distinction between required and desired skills is crucial. While AutoCAD and general PC skills are mandatory, experience with industry-specific CAM software (Cut-Rite, CabinetVision, etc.) and ERP systems (ShopPak) would significantly differentiate candidates, indicating a deeper operational efficiency and technical capability. AWI Standards knowledge is a strong indicator of quality commitment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase 3-5 completed commercial millwork projects, detailing the scope, design challenges, and your specific contributions.

• Technical Drawing Samples: Include examples of architectural shop drawings, CNC machine drawings, and installation drawings, demonstrating accuracy, clarity, and adherence to industry standards.

• Value Engineering Examples: Present instances where you successfully recommended design or material alternatives that improved functionality, reduced costs, or enhanced project value, along with the quantifiable impact.

• Cut-List and Material List Examples: Provide samples of accurate cut-lists and material lists generated from project designs, illustrating your attention to detail and understanding of fabrication requirements.

• Process Documentation: If available, include examples of workflow diagrams or process maps you've developed or improved for design or production stages.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Demonstrate experience in mapping out and refining design-to-production workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing efficiency improvements.

• System Implementation: Provide examples of how you've utilized or helped implement design software and project management tools to streamline processes.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Show how you've tracked design accuracy, project timelines, and material usage to measure performance and inform continuous improvement efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Project Design Manager" role in a manufacturing/fabrication context like millwork, the portfolio should emphasize not just design output but also the process of design management. This includes how designs translate to manufacturing efficiency (cut-lists, CNC), cost savings (value engineering), and project success. Demonstrating an understanding of workflow optimization and system utilization is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the Pantego, Texas location, the experience level (2-5 years), and the specialized nature of the role, the estimated salary range for a Project Design Manager in Commercial Millwork is typically between $65,000 and $85,000 annually. This range accounts for the required technical skills, project management responsibilities, and the demand for experienced professionals in this niche industry.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay, reflecting the skills and responsibilities of the role.

• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) offering confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.

• Access to Financial & Legal Services, providing resources and guidance for personal financial planning and legal matters.

• 401K Employer Matching, a valuable retirement savings benefit to help grow long-term financial security.

• Paid Vacation, allowing for work-life balance and personal time off.

• Sick Time, providing paid leave for health-related absences.

• Paid Holidays, recognizing national and company-observed holidays.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM, totaling 40 hours per week. This schedule is typical for manufacturing environments, often designed to maximize production time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, considering the specific requirements of architectural millwork design and management. The benefits listed are comprehensive and standard for full-time positions, with a notable emphasis on financial and legal support services.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Anton Cabinetry operates within the Custom Cabinetry and Architectural Millwork sector, a specialized segment of the construction and manufacturing industries. This industry demands precision, high-quality craftsmanship, and the ability to execute complex, bespoke designs. The market often involves B2B relationships with general contractors, architects, and interior designers.

Company Size: Anton Cabinetry is likely a medium-sized enterprise, indicated by the need for a Project Design Manager and the presence of a dedicated engineering team. A company of this size typically offers a more personal work environment than large corporations, with clearer lines of communication and potentially more direct impact from individual contributions.

Founded: While the founding date is not provided, Anton Cabinetry's specialization in custom work suggests a company with established expertise and a track record in the market, likely built over several years to gain the necessary experience and client base.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role sits within an engineering or design department, likely reporting to an Engineering Manager or Director of Operations.

• Team Size: The mention of "CAD Product Designers" and "outsource partners" implies a design team of several individuals, possibly ranging from 3-7 people, with the Project Design Manager overseeing their technical output and workflow.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires significant collaboration with Project Managers, Production teams (fabrication, assembly), Sales, and potentially Installation crews, necessitating strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Methodology:

• Precision Design: Emphasis on detailed and accurate drawings that translate directly into precise manufacturing processes.

• Value Engineering: A core operational philosophy to optimize designs for cost, material usage, and production efficiency without compromising quality or aesthetics.

• Quality Control: Strict adherence to specifications, AWI Standards (if applicable), and internal quality benchmarks throughout the design and fabrication process.

Company Website: https://antoncabinetry.com/ (Inferred from domain_derived: antoncabinetry.com)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's specialization in "commercial casework, architectural casework/millwork, countertops and store fixtures" indicates a focus on high-end, custom projects rather than mass production. This requires a design team that is technically adept, detail-oriented, and capable of problem-solving complex architectural challenges. The operational culture likely values craftsmanship, efficiency, and client satisfaction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Project Design Manager" role sits at an intermediate to senior level within the design and engineering function. It requires not only technical design proficiency but also the ability to manage project scope, mentor junior staff, and contribute to process improvement. It's a step beyond a pure CAD Designer role, involving management and strategic input.

Reporting Structure: The Project Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Engineering, Operations Manager, or a similar senior leadership role within the company. They will, in turn, manage a team of CAD Product Designers and potentially oversee outsourced design work.

Operations Impact: The Project Design Manager's work directly impacts:

• Project Profitability: Through accurate material take-offs, efficient cut-list generation, and value engineering recommendations.

• Production Efficiency: By providing clear, precise, and optimized drawings that minimize errors and rework on the shop floor.

• Client Satisfaction: By ensuring designs meet specifications, aesthetic standards, and project timelines.

• Quality Standards: By enforcing technical accuracy and adherence to industry best practices in all design output.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into a Director of Engineering or Operations Management role, overseeing larger teams and broader operational functions.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like complex architectural millwork, advanced CNC programming, or specific software mastery.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead initiatives to further optimize design workflows, implement new technologies, or improve cross-departmental collaboration.

• Project Management Focus: Transition to a pure Project Manager role, leveraging design understanding to manage larger, more complex construction projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The title "Manager" suggests a dual focus: managing projects and managing people/processes. Growth opportunities should reflect this dual path, leading either into broader operational management or deeper technical specialization within design and engineering. The impact on profitability and efficiency is a key metric for success in this role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site at the company's facility in Pantego, Texas. This indicates a need for physical presence for collaboration, design work, and potential site visits. The environment will likely be a mix of office space for design and administrative tasks, and proximity to the manufacturing/fabrication floor.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is 2002 W. Pioneer Parkway, Pantego, Texas 76013. This is a specific industrial or commercial location, likely accessible via major roadways in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace will facilitate close interaction with other designers, project managers, and potentially production supervisors. This may involve open-plan office areas or shared project rooms.

• Tools and Technology: Access to high-performance workstations equipped with industry-standard CAD software (AutoCAD, potentially others), and standard office productivity tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily team meetings, design reviews, problem-solving sessions, and ad-hoc discussions to address project challenges.

Work Schedule: The specified schedule is Monday - Thursday from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This structured schedule is typical for manufacturing and fabrication settings, prioritizing consistent operational hours and production output. While demanding, it offers a predictable weekly structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical. The mention of travel to job sites implies that the Pantego location serves as a central hub for design, production, and project coordination, with occasional field work essential to understanding project realities. The specific working hours suggest a culture focused on dedicated work blocks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess technical skills, relevant experience, and alignment with job requirements.

• Technical Assessment/Interview: This may involve a practical test using AutoCAD or a discussion of your approach to specific design challenges. You might be asked to walk through a design problem or interpret architectural plans.

• Manager Interview: An interview with the hiring manager to discuss your project management style, team leadership experience, problem-solving approach, and understanding of millwork processes.

• Team/Cross-functional Interview: Meeting with potential team members (CAD designers, project managers) to evaluate collaboration style, communication effectiveness, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss career aspirations and overall fit with the company's strategic goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or complexity. Start with your strongest, most relevant examples.

• Highlight Your Role: For each project, clearly articulate your specific contributions, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "reduced material waste by X%," "improved fabrication time by Y hours").

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Ensure your drawing samples are clean, accurate, and easy to interpret. Demonstrate your command of AutoCAD and any specialized software.

• Emphasize Value Engineering: If possible, include examples where your design recommendations led to cost savings or improved functionality, explaining the rationale and outcome.

• Storytelling: Frame your projects as mini case studies. Explain the "why" behind design decisions, the "how" of your execution, and the "what" of the successful outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared to analyze a set of architectural plans and specifications, discussing how you would approach the design, identify potential issues, and propose solutions.

• Process Improvement: Think about how you would optimize a design workflow or improve communication between design and production teams.

• Technical Knowledge: Brush up on AWI Standards, common millwork materials, fabrication techniques, and installation considerations.

• Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with AutoCAD and any other relevant design software, including advanced features you utilize.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a critical component for this role. It needs to demonstrate not just design skills but also project management capabilities, an understanding of manufacturing constraints, and the ability to contribute to operational efficiency through design. The interview process will likely probe deeply into how candidates handle technical challenges and collaborate with diverse teams.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: This is the core CAD software required. Proficiency in creating 2D shop drawings, construction drawings, and potentially 3D models is essential. Expect questions about advanced commands, layer management, and drawing standards.

• Specialized Millwork Software (Desired): Experience with software like Cut-Rite, WoodWOP, WoodCAD/CAM, CabinetVision, or Microvellum is highly desirable. These tools often integrate design, cut-list generation, and CNC programming, significantly boosting efficiency.

• Bluebeam (Desired): Useful for document management, markups, and collaboration on architectural plans and specifications.

• ERP Software (e.g., ShopPak) (Desired): Familiarity with enterprise resource planning systems used for production tracking, material management, and order processing would be a strong asset, indicating an understanding of the broader operational ecosystem.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Essential for creating and managing cut-lists, material lists, project tracking spreadsheets, and basic data analysis. Proficiency in formulas, pivot tables, and data visualization is beneficial.

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly listed, familiarity with project management tools used by the company (e.g., for tracking project status, deadlines, and communication) is likely expected.

CRM & Automation:

• Basic CRM Understanding: While not a sales role, understanding how design data flows into sales quotes or project management systems might be relevant.

• Workflow Automation: While direct automation tools aren't listed, the role involves creating efficient workflows through precise digital design and documentation, which indirectly contributes to automation in downstream processes like CNC machining.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on CAD and manufacturing-specific software. Proficiency in AutoCAD is non-negotiable. Experience with integrated CAM/ERP solutions is a significant advantage, signaling a candidate's ability to contribute to a highly efficient and digitally integrated manufacturing process.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Precision and Accuracy: A strong emphasis on detailed, error-free designs that translate directly into high-quality millwork.

• Efficiency and Optimization: A drive to find the most effective and cost-efficient design solutions through value engineering and streamlined processes.

• Collaboration and Communication: Valuing open communication and teamwork across departments (design, project management, production) to ensure project success.

• Craftsmanship and Quality: A commitment to producing high-caliber millwork that meets or exceeds client expectations and industry standards.

• Problem-Solving: An environment that encourages proactive identification and resolution of design and production challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a collaborative approach where design is seen as an integral part of the larger project lifecycle, requiring close liaison with project managers and production teams.

• Process Review Culture: An openness to discussing and refining design and workflow processes to identify areas for improvement and ensure consistent best practices.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share insights, technical expertise, and lessons learned to collectively elevate the team's capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely mirrors the demands of the millwork industry: meticulous, deadline-driven, and collaborative. The company values individuals who are not only technically skilled but also team-oriented and committed to delivering exceptional results.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Complex Projects: Simultaneously handling design for several projects, each with unique specifications and deadlines, requires exceptional organizational and prioritization skills.

• Balancing Design Creativity with Production Constraints: Finding innovative design solutions that are also manufacturable, cost-effective, and align with client budgets and timelines.

• Ensuring Design Accuracy: The direct impact of design errors on production costs and project timelines necessitates a high level of accuracy and meticulous attention to detail.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in CAD software, CAM technologies, and material science in the millwork industry.

• Interdepartmental Communication: Effectively bridging the gap between client requirements, design intent, and production realities, often involving complex technical discussions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to gain expertise in specialized millwork design software (e.g., CabinetVision, Microvellum) or advanced AutoCAD features.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications related to architectural woodworking, design, or project management.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced design managers and production leads within the company.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gaining deeper insight into production processes, material sourcing, and project management through collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to managing complex design-build projects in a specialized manufacturing field. Growth opportunities should focus on deepening technical expertise, enhancing project management capabilities, and potentially moving into leadership roles that oversee broader operational aspects.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for translating architectural plans and specifications into detailed shop drawings for commercial millwork." (Focus on methodical approach, key steps, and checks for accuracy.)

• "How do you approach value engineering? Can you provide an example of a time you recommended a design or material change that resulted in significant cost savings or improved functionality for a millwork project?" (Highlight analytical skills, understanding of materials/production, and quantifiable results.)

• "Imagine a situation where a design detail you created is proving difficult or costly to fabricate on the shop floor. How would you handle this situation?" (Focus on collaborative problem-solving, communication with production, and finding practical solutions.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Anton Cabinetry and our specialization in commercial millwork?" (Demonstrate research into the company's projects, capabilities, and market position.)

• "How do you ensure your design work aligns with AWI Standards or other industry quality benchmarks?" (Showcase commitment to quality and understanding of industry best practices.)

• "Describe your experience managing a team of designers or providing technical guidance to junior team members." (Prepare to discuss leadership style, mentorship, and delegation.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Narrative: For each project presented, tell a story: the client's need, the design challenge, your specific role and technical solutions, and the successful outcome (e.g., met budget, on time, high quality).

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your drawings are legible and well-organized. Use callouts and annotations effectively to explain complex details.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, present data on cost savings, time efficiencies, or material optimization achieved through your design work.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Expect questions about specific design choices, software techniques, and your problem-solving process for various aspects of your portfolio pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of technical design skills, project management acumen, an understanding of manufacturing operations, and effective communication. The portfolio is your primary tool to showcase this blend.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Project Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Anton Cabinetry careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature commercial millwork projects. Highlight your contributions to design, value engineering, and the creation of technical drawings (shop, CNC, installation). Showcase your proficiency with AutoCAD and any specialized millwork software.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your 3+ years of experience in architectural casework and millwork. Use keywords from the job description such as "AutoCAD," "shop drawings," "CNC," "value engineering," and "project management." Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving skills, and project management approach. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your portfolio and how you handle collaboration and deadlines. Research Anton Cabinetry's projects and values to demonstrate genuine interest.

• Company Research: Visit the Anton Cabinetry website to understand their project portfolio, company mission, and areas of specialization. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your fit with their operational culture and client focus.

⚠️ 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.