Senior Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Product Designer

Company: WillScot

Location: Harmans, MD (Anne Arundel County)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / Engineering

Date Posted: 2026-09-11

Experience Level: 8+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads and supports product design throughout the entire lifecycle, from initial concept to manufacturing and ongoing product improvements.

• Translates complex architectural requirements, building codes, and customer needs into robust, engineered product solutions.

• Provides critical engineering documentation, including drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and assembly instructions, ensuring compliance with industry standards.

• Drives continuous improvement initiatives, focusing on cost reduction, value engineering, and enhancing product performance and manufacturability.

• Collaborates closely with cross-functional teams, including Product Management, Manufacturing, and Marketing, to ensure successful product development and market integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Product Designer, indicating a need for significant autonomy and the ability to lead design efforts for complex parts, sub-assemblies, and entire products. The emphasis on supporting products throughout their lifecycle suggests a deep involvement in both new product development and the optimization of existing product lines.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design complex parts, sub-assemblies, and complete products, adhering to WillScot's and industry design intent standards with minimal supervision.

• Conduct thorough analysis of proposed designs to understand their impact on other subsystems, parts, and assemblies, ensuring holistic product integrity.

• Translate architectural requirements, building codes (e.g., IBC), ADA compliance, and customer expectations into detailed, engineered product solutions.

• Provide hands-on support for prototype builds and occasional on-site job support for customer installations, ensuring practical application of designs.

• Actively support product improvement and value improvement opportunities to enhance existing product lines.

• Offer dedicated engineering support to assigned program teams, fostering strong collaboration with members from Engineering, Manufacturing, Marketing, and Product Management.

• Estimate the scope of work and required efforts for assignments, including the creation of comprehensive engineering documentation (drawings, BOMs, product specifications, assembly instructions).

• Ensure all developed products meet or exceed applicable performance and safety standards.

• Contribute significantly to cost reduction, value engineering, and continuous improvement initiatives within the product development process.

• Assist Product Management and Legal teams in identifying, drafting, and pursuing intellectual property opportunities to protect innovations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on engineering design role with a strong emphasis on the practical application and manufacturability of products. The need to support prototype builds and on-site installations suggests a blend of theoretical design and practical field experience is valued.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a closely related technical discipline. Experience:

• Minimum of eight years of progressive experience in product design and development.

• Demonstrated experience in supporting products throughout their entire lifecycle, from ideation through to manufacturing and maintenance. Required Skills:

• High proficiency with CAD 2D and 3D software, specifically parametric modeling using SolidWorks or equivalent.

• Expertise in PDM/PLM software for managing product data and workflows.

• Strong understanding of manufacturing and assembly processes, including structural steel fabrication, sheet metal forming, welding, and injection molding.

• Ability to develop and meticulously review a Bill of Material (BOM) structure for accuracy and completeness.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) for documentation and communication.

• Ability to understand manufacturing tolerances and perform detailed tolerance analysis of complex systems.

• Demonstrated ability to independently design components and assemblies based on general design intent.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to design challenges.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical solutions clearly and collaboratively. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Autodesk Revit for architectural integration.

• Familiarity with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) per ASME Y14.5 standards.

• Experience with Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulations.

• Knowledge of applicable industry standards and regulations, such as IBC, ADA, and UL.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 8+ years of experience and specific CAD/PDM/PLM proficiency, coupled with preferred knowledge in areas like Revit, GD&T, and CAE/FEA, positions this as a senior-level role demanding deep technical expertise and a proven track record in product design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex product design projects that demonstrate the full design lifecycle.

• Include detailed case studies highlighting your role in problem-solving, design ideation, and solution implementation.

• Present examples of engineering documentation, including detailed drawings, BOMs, and specifications created by you.

• Demonstrate how your designs contributed to cost reduction, value engineering, or improved product performance.

• Illustrate your proficiency with CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) through visual representations of your designs. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of your approach to translating user needs and technical specifications into design requirements.

• Detail your methodology for conducting tolerance analysis and ensuring manufacturability.

• Present documentation outlining your contributions to continuous improvement initiatives and product enhancements.

• Show evidence of your experience with PDM/PLM systems, including workflow management and data integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, as it will serve as the primary evidence of a candidate's ability to handle complex design challenges and contribute to product lifecycle management. The emphasis should be on showcasing practical application, problem-solving, and adherence to industry standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for this Senior Product Designer role in Harmans, MD, is between $105,000 and $140,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior-level product design positions in the Maryland region, considering the specified experience level (8+ years) and the technical requirements. Factors such as specific skill sets, interview performance, and the company's compensation strategy will influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Disability Insurance

• Life Insurance

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Company Holidays

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match

• Variable pay opportunities (e.g., commission, bonus, performance rewards, incentive programs) may be available depending on the specific role. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, estimated at 40 hours per week. The role is on-site, requiring regular attendance at the Harmans, MD office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for a Senior Product Designer role with 8+ years of experience in the specified geographic area. The provided benefits are comprehensive and align with industry standards for full-time positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Temporary Space Solutions & Portable Storage. WillScot is a leading provider in North America, serving diverse sectors with innovative and flexible workspace and storage solutions.

Company Size: 5000+ employees. This indicates a large, established organization with structured processes and significant market presence.

Founded: Not specified in the provided data, but the company's scale suggests a long history of growth and market leadership.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely operates within a broader Engineering or Product Development department.

• This role involves close collaboration with Product Management, Manufacturing, Marketing, and potentially Sales teams.

• Reporting structure is likely to a Director or VP of Engineering/Product Development, with direct interaction with program managers and product stakeholders.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring effective communication and integration with diverse departments. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is implicit, with a focus on translating customer needs and technical specifications into viable product designs.

• Emphasis on continuous improvement and value engineering to optimize product cost and performance.

• Application of industry best practices in design, engineering documentation, and manufacturing support.

• Collaboration is a core methodology, with design decisions informed by cross-functional input.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: WillScot's positioning as a "Great Place to Work®" suggests a positive and supportive work environment. The company's scale implies opportunities for impact and professional development within a structured organization focused on delivering essential solutions to various industries.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Product Designer. This level signifies a highly experienced professional capable of independently managing complex design projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing to strategic product decisions. The role demands a deep understanding of engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and market needs.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to an Engineering Manager, Director of Product Development, or similar leadership role. Will work closely with Product Managers, Project Managers, and engineering teams. The role requires significant interaction with manufacturing and operations personnel to ensure design feasibility and quality.

Operations Impact: The Senior Product Designer directly impacts WillScot's ability to deliver innovative, cost-effective, and reliable temporary space and storage solutions. Their designs influence product performance, manufacturing efficiency, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, the company's competitive edge and revenue generation. By contributing to value engineering and cost reduction, they directly affect profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to lead design projects, mentor junior engineers, and potentially move into roles like Lead Product Designer or Engineering Manager.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced materials, structural analysis, or sustainable design within the temporary space industry.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into Product Management, Program Management, or Manufacturing Engineering roles, leveraging a comprehensive understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Continuous Learning: Access to industry conferences, specialized training, and internal development programs to stay current with design software, materials, and manufacturing technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Product Designer role is a critical juncture for career growth, offering both technical depth and potential leadership pathways. The company's focus on growth and employee investment suggests a supportive environment for career advancement within the engineering and product development functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an in-office role, meaning it is not hybrid or remote. It requires a dedicated presence at the Harmans, MD location.

Office Location(s): Harmans, MD (Anne Arundel County). Specific office address details would be available upon application or inquiry.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed for on-site collaboration, facilitating direct interaction with colleagues and access to necessary equipment.

• Expect access to standard engineering and design tools, including CAD workstations and potentially prototyping facilities.

• Opportunities for direct engagement with product managers, manufacturing engineers, and other cross-functional team members are inherent to the on-site environment.

• The physical requirements suggest a need for mobility within the office and potentially occasional visits to manufacturing or job sites. Work Schedule:

• A standard full-time work schedule is expected, likely around 40 hours per week.

• While the role is on-site, the company culture, as indicated by its "Great Place to Work®" certification, may allow for some flexibility within the standard workday, subject to team and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of an "in office role; not hybrid" emphasizes the company's preference for in-person collaboration and direct team engagement, which can be beneficial for complex design work and problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter will likely conduct a preliminary interview to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview (Hiring Manager/Team): This will focus on your product design experience, CAD proficiency, understanding of manufacturing processes, and problem-solving abilities. Expect questions related to your portfolio projects.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio. Be prepared to discuss your design process, challenges, solutions, and impact.

• Cross-Functional Interview(s): You may meet with members from Product Management, Manufacturing, or other relevant departments to assess collaboration skills and understanding of their perspectives.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level manager or director to discuss overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your skills in complex product design, lifecycle support, and problem-solving. Prioritize projects relevant to WillScot's industry (temporary space, modular structures, portable storage).

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the problem statement, your design process, key challenges, innovative solutions, tools used (CAD, PDM/PLM, CAE), and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, manufacturability enhancements).

• Highlight Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss technical details, GD&T, tolerance analysis, material selection, and manufacturing considerations.

• Showcase Collaboration: Explain how you worked with cross-functional teams and incorporated their feedback.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the value of your contributions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem: You might be given a hypothetical design challenge related to temporary structures or storage solutions and asked to outline your approach, key considerations, and potential solutions.

• CAD Exercise: A brief exercise to assess your proficiency in SolidWorks or a similar CAD package.

• Process Walkthrough: Be prepared to discuss your approach to creating engineering documentation (drawings, BOMs) for a given product or component.

📝 Enhancement Note: A well-prepared portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should anticipate in-depth discussions about their design process, technical expertise, and ability to translate concepts into manufacturable products.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: High proficiency required in SolidWorks (2D and 3D) with parametric modeling capabilities. Autodesk Revit experience is a strong plus.

• PDM/PLM Software: Essential for managing product data, revisions, and workflows. Specific systems may vary, but familiarity with the concepts and use of such software is key.

• CAE/FEA Software: Preferred for simulation and analysis (e.g., stress, thermal analysis) to validate designs before prototyping.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as a primary responsibility for a designer, familiarity with data analysis to inform design decisions is beneficial. This could include understanding reports on product performance, customer feedback, or manufacturing yields.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel for data analysis and reporting) is required. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but an understanding of how product design impacts downstream processes (sales, manufacturing, service) is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific CAD and PDM/PLM software highlights the technical requirements of the role. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their proficiency with these tools and discuss their experience using them in a professional product design context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical standards in all design and documentation processes.

• Customer Focus: Designing products that meet customer needs, building codes, and functional requirements for temporary space solutions.

• Innovation: Continuously seeking creative solutions to design challenges and exploring new materials or technologies.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams to achieve shared product development goals.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality design, accurate documentation, and optimal product performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with Product Management for requirements, Manufacturing for feasibility, and Legal for IP.

• Open Communication: Sharing design ideas, challenges, and solutions transparently within the engineering team and with stakeholders.

• Feedback Incorporation: Being receptive to constructive criticism and incorporating feedback from various departments to refine designs.

• Problem-Solving Partnership: Collaborating to identify and resolve complex engineering and manufacturing issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: WillScot's "Great Place to Work®" certification suggests a culture that values employee well-being and professional development, likely fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for its engineering teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Constraints: Designing innovative solutions while adhering to strict building codes, manufacturing limitations, cost targets, and project timelines.

• Complex System Integration: Ensuring that individual component designs integrate seamlessly into larger, complex systems, considering structural integrity and functional requirements.

• Global Standards Compliance: Designing for products that may be manufactured or used in different regions, requiring knowledge of diverse industry standards and regulations (e.g., IBC, ADA, UL).

• Rapid Iteration and Support: Providing timely design support for prototypes, manufacturing issues, and occasional on-site customer installations, often under pressure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD/CAE Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in SolidWorks, explore advanced simulation techniques (FEA), or learn new design software like Revit.

• Industry Standards Specialization: Becoming a subject matter expert in specific building codes, accessibility standards (ADA), or safety certifications (UL).

• Product Lifecycle Management: Gaining deeper experience in PDM/PLM systems and contributing to strategic product roadmap development.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Learning about manufacturing processes, sales requirements, and product management strategies through close collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior product designer in a manufacturing-focused industry, requiring a blend of technical skill, problem-solving acumen, and adaptability. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical expertise and broadening professional scope.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex product design project you led from concept to production. What were the biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and results.)

• "How do you approach translating architectural requirements and building codes into detailed engineering drawings and specifications?" (Demonstrate understanding of standards and documentation.)

• "Walk us through your experience with SolidWorks and PDM/PLM systems. Provide an example of how you used these tools to improve a design or streamline a process." (Highlight technical proficiency and efficiency.)

• "How do you handle conflicting requirements from different stakeholders (e.g., Product Management vs. Manufacturing)?" (Showcase collaboration and negotiation skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about WillScot and our role in the temporary space solutions industry?" (Research the company's mission, values, and recent projects.)

• "How do you see your skills contributing to our team's success in developing innovative and reliable products?" (Align your experience with the job description.)

• "Describe your experience working in an on-site, collaborative team environment." (Emphasize your ability to work effectively in person.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Relevant Projects: Choose 3-5 projects that best align with WillScot's product lines and the requirements of the Senior Product Designer role.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your design approach, key technical decisions, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes.

• Visual Aids: Use clear CAD renderings, drawings, BOM excerpts, and potentially photos of prototypes or finished products.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your design contributions led to cost savings, improved performance, enhanced manufacturability, or met specific customer needs.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical choices, CAD techniques, and understanding of manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their design philosophy, demonstrate technical mastery, and showcase their ability to collaborate and drive product innovation within the context of WillScot's industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the WillScot careers portal link: https://careers.willscot.com/job/Harmans-Senior-Product-Designer-MD-21077/1429084400/

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 8+ years of product design experience, specific CAD (SolidWorks) and PDM/PLM skills, manufacturing process knowledge, and any experience with relevant industry standards (IBC, ADA, UL). Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your best design projects, focusing on complexity, problem-solving, and impact. Ensure it showcases your ability to create detailed engineering documentation and manage products through their lifecycle.

• Research WillScot: Understand their business, products, market position, and company values. Familiarize yourself with their "Great Place to Work®" status and their commitment to customers and communities.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for technical questions about CAD, GD&T, manufacturing, and design process. Rehearse presenting your portfolio projects and answering behavioral questions related to collaboration and problem-solving.

⚠️ 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.