Sr Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr Product Designer

Company: Napoleon

Location: Barrie, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Product Design & Development

Date Posted: August 10, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the end-to-end product design lifecycle, from conceptualization and 3D rendering to detailed production designs and manufacturing specifications.

• The Sr Product Designer will manage moderate to large or complex product development projects, ensuring adherence to technical requirements, deadlines, and cost targets.

• A key aspect involves maintaining and upgrading the current product line-up to ensure market relevance and address quality or field issues.

• The position requires strong collaboration with cross-functional teams, including R&D, engineering, manufacturing, and external vendors, to achieve successful product launches.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Sr Product Designer," the responsibilities and experience requirements (minimum 3 years) suggest a mid-level to senior position. The emphasis on managing projects, mentoring junior designers, and dealing with complex developments solidifies this as a role requiring significant autonomy and a proven track record in product development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define and develop product concepts by analyzing competitive products, conducting market research, and incorporating lessons learned to ensure innovative and relevant designs.

• Create initial sketches, simple 3D concept models, and rendered images, alongside detailed technical scope documents, for presentation and approval by R&D teams and management.

• Develop detailed 3D models suitable for prototype and mass production, incorporating Design for Assembly (DFA), Design for Manufacture (DFM), and Design for Serviceability (DFS) principles.

• Ensure designs meet targets for cost, aesthetic appearance, robustness, reliability, and quality, while strictly adhering to project deadlines and collaborating with various departments and external vendors.

• Validate design concepts through rigorous design reviews, functional analysis, input for simulations, and tolerance stack-up analysis to ensure fit, form, and function.

• Create and maintain detailed 2D drawings, specifications, and bills of materials (BOMs) necessary for ERP system population and drawing releases for prototypes, purchasing, and samples.

• Maintain the current product line-up by championing Change Notices that enhance product robustness, correct quality issues, and support updates to existing models and drawings based on continuous improvement initiatives.

• Plan and manage all development activities for R&D, vendors, and cross-functional teams, collaborating with project launch managers to ensure timely and effective production launches.

• Track project schedules, report open issues weekly, identify critical tasks, and proactively inform the Technology/Engineering Manager of any variances or delays, collaborating on recovery plans.

• Conduct periodic design reviews with the Technology/Engineering Manager to ensure progress towards technical goals and deadlines, and ensure all Stage Gate or accelerated Stage documentation is completed and approved.

• Plan and manage prototype phases, engineering production runs, and sample validations, ensuring all design changes are documented and implemented prior to production.

• Provide necessary drawings and data to support the creation of product manuals, work instructions, compliance/certification documentation, service parts, and marketing materials.

• Champion and facilitate the setup of appropriate service parts, new kits, and plan all accessories for assigned projects to ensure they are validated and available at product launch.

• Provide mentorship and coaching to junior designers, conducting design reviews and providing sign-offs where applicable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on the entire product development lifecycle, from ideation through to post-launch support and continuous improvement. The inclusion of DFA/DFM/DFS, Stage Gate reviews, and BOM creation points to a need for candidates with a solid understanding of manufacturing and production processes, not just conceptual design. The mentorship aspect indicates a leadership potential expectation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Preference for candidates with a University Degree or College Diploma in Engineering Technology, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent field. Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years of directly related product design or development experience is required.

• Demonstrated experience using 3D CAD software such as Solidworks, SolidEdge, ProE, Catia, or Mechanical Desktop is mandatory.

• Experience in a directly related field such as hearth, HVAC, boilers, or other thermodynamic products is a requirement.

• Experience with sheet metal component design, consumer products, and/or furniture design is required. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., Solidworks, SolidEdge, ProE, Catia) for detailed modeling and drawing creation.

• Strong understanding of Design for Assembly (DFA), Design for Manufacture (DFM), and Design for Serviceability (DFS) principles.

• Ability to create detailed 2D technical drawings and specifications.

• Experience in developing Bills of Materials (BOMs) and understanding ERP system data requirements.

• Proven ability to manage product development projects from concept to mass production, including tracking schedules and managing open issues.

• Knowledge of material properties and manufacturing processes relevant to consumer goods.

• Experience with tolerance stack-up analysis for fit, form, and function validation.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for design validation and issue resolution.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills for working with cross-functional teams and external vendors.

• Ability to mentor and provide design reviews for junior designers. Preferred Skills:

• Demonstrated experience in simulation or Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM).

• Knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software systems (e.g., SAP, Team Center, SolidWorks PDM) from a user perspective.

• Hands-on mechanical or fabrication experience.

• Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) certification, or willingness to achieve this within the first 75 days of employment.

• Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) or Certified SolidWorks Expert (CSWE) certifications.

• Experience with SolidWorks specifically (or equivalent 3D software with a willingness to learn Solidworks).

• Experience with MS Office Suite for reporting and documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a CSWA certification or willingness to obtain it during onboarding is a critical point. The explicit mention of specific 3D CAD software and related fields like hearth/HVAC indicates a highly specialized need. The inclusion of "hands-on mechanical or fabrication experience" suggests a preference for designers who understand practical application and manufacturing constraints.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 complex product development projects from concept to production, demonstrating the full design lifecycle.

• Include detailed examples of 3D CAD models, technical drawings, and rendered concept images.

• Present case studies that highlight the application of DFA/DFM/DFS principles and their impact on manufacturability and cost reduction.

• Demonstrate experience in creating and managing Bills of Materials (BOMs) and integrating design data with ERP or PLM systems. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of design validation processes, including tolerance stack-up analysis, functional analysis, and participation in Stage Gate reviews.

• Showcase documentation of Change Notices (CNs) or continuous improvement initiatives applied to existing products, detailing the problem, solution, and impact.

• Include documentation of project management efforts, such as schedule tracking, open issues lists, and status reporting, demonstrating proactive issue resolution.

• Present examples of technical documentation created to support product manuals, service parts, and marketing materials, ensuring clarity and accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Sr. Product Designer role, the portfolio should not just be a collection of aesthetically pleasing designs but a testament to their ability to manage complex projects, integrate with manufacturing processes, and drive product development efficiently. Demonstrating a structured approach to documentation and process management is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Sr. Product Designers in Barrie, Ontario, with 3-5 years of experience in a manufacturing/product development environment, the estimated salary range is CAD $68,400 - $94,050 annually. This estimate considers the hybrid work model, company size, and the specialized technical requirements of the role. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage, with 100% of premiums paid by the Company.

• Long Term Disability Protection.

• Well-being support programs and virtual medical visits.

• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and well-being.

• Training Allowance and continuous learning opportunities and programs.

• Leadership development and mentorship programs.

• Clear pathways for advancement within the organization.

• Appreciation events, raffles, and team-building activities.

• Napoleon Cares fund for Associate support.

• Competitive total compensation package, inclusive of bonus opportunity.

• Retirement savings plan with matching Company contributions (RRSP/DPSP).

• Exclusive Associate discounts on Napoleon's award-winning products. Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically involving 40 hours per week. The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility, with a combination of on-site work at the Barrie location and remote work days.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on provided AI data and general market rates for similar roles in the specified region. The benefits package is exceptionally comprehensive, with the company covering 100% of health insurance premiums, which is a significant perk.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Home Comfort Products, Appliances, Outdoor Living), Engineering, Design. Napoleon is a recognized leader in innovative engineering and advanced manufacturing, known for high-quality, award-winning products that enhance everyday home experiences.

Company Size: Napoleon is a significant player in its industry, with a global presence. While specific employee numbers aren't provided, the mention of worldwide operations and diverse product lines suggests a company with hundreds, if not thousands, of employees across multiple facilities.

Founded: The founding date is not specified, but the company's description implies a long-standing history of innovation and a strong Canadian heritage with a global reach.

Team Structure:

• The Sr. Product Designer reports to the Technology / Engineering Manager, indicating a structured engineering and R&D department.

• Collaboration is expected with various cross-functional teams, including R&D, project launch managers, manufacturing, marketing, and potentially external vendors.

• There is an explicit mention of providing mentorship and oversight to junior designers, suggesting a tiered structure within the design team. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Concepts are defined considering competitive products, benchmarking, trends, and lessons learned, implying a research-backed approach.

• Iterative Development: The process includes creating concepts, prototypes, and conducting validation through design reviews, functional analysis, and Stage Gate runs.

• Collaborative Workflow: Emphasis on working closely with other departments, sites, and vendors to ensure successful product development and launch.

• Continuous Improvement: A focus on maintaining and upgrading current product lines to address quality issues and market relevance.

Company Website: [Napoleon Website URL - Assuming napoleon.com based on domain_derived]

📝 Enhancement Note: Napoleon's emphasis on "innovative engineering, advanced manufacturing techniques, unsurpassed customer service and remarkable product quality" sets a high bar for its employees. The company culture likely values precision, quality, and a dedication to creating positive customer experiences. The global reach suggests an environment that can offer exposure to diverse markets and standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior Product Designer, indicating a mid-to-senior level professional with at least 3 years of direct experience. It involves not only individual contribution but also project management, technical leadership, and mentorship of junior staff. The scope includes managing moderate to large or complex projects.

Reporting Structure: The Sr. Product Designer reports directly to the Technology / Engineering Manager. This structure suggests a clear line of authority and a direct channel for technical guidance and project oversight.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts Napoleon's market position and revenue by driving the development of innovative, high-quality products. Successful product launches, cost-effective designs, and improvements to existing product lines contribute significantly to customer satisfaction, brand reputation, and profitability. The focus on DFA/DFM/DFS directly influences manufacturing efficiency and cost.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like hearth products, thermodynamics, advanced CAD techniques, or simulation.

• Project Leadership: Progress to managing larger, more complex, or strategic product development initiatives.

• Management Track: Develop leadership skills through mentorship and potentially move into roles such as Engineering Lead, R&D Manager, or similar supervisory positions.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain broader experience by working on projects that involve different business units or global markets.

• Continuous Learning: Leverage the provided training allowance and continuous learning opportunities to stay at the forefront of design and manufacturing technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Sr." title, coupled with project management and mentorship responsibilities, signals a career path that can lead to team leadership or more strategic roles within product development and engineering. The company's commitment to training and advancement pathways suggests a supportive environment for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job is described as "hybrid," indicating a mix of on-site work at the Barrie, Ontario location and remote work. This suggests a modern office environment designed to support both individual focused work and collaborative team activities.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is 9 Napoleon Road, Barrie, ON, L4M0G8. This location serves as the hub for hybrid work activities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The hybrid model implies the availability of meeting rooms, brainstorming areas, and shared workspaces to facilitate team interaction and cross-functional collaboration on design projects.

• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-standard 3D CAD software (Solidworks is preferred), potentially simulation tools, and other necessary design and project management software will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with the Technology/Engineering Manager, junior designers, and other cross-functional team members to discuss designs, resolve issues, and plan project stages.

• Hands-on Environment: Given the manufacturing context and preference for hands-on experience, the workspace may include access to prototyping facilities or proximity to manufacturing floors for design validation.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule (typically 40 hours per week) is expected. The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility in how and where these hours are completed, balancing focused remote work with essential on-site collaboration and access to company resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a balance between focused, independent work at home and collaborative, hands-on work at the Barrie office. Candidates should be comfortable with both modes of operation and possess the self-discipline required for effective remote work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of applications and resumes, potentially using AI tools for initial candidate ranking, focusing on required experience, CAD proficiency, and relevant industry background.

• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion with the hiring manager (Technology / Engineering Manager) and potentially other senior designers or engineers. This will likely involve questions about design methodologies, problem-solving approaches, and technical skills.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: Candidates will be asked to present their portfolio, showcasing key projects. This is a critical stage to demonstrate design capabilities, process understanding, and communication skills. Expect to walk through your design decisions, challenges, and outcomes.

• Practical Exercise/Case Study: A potential design challenge or a scenario-based problem relevant to Napoleon's product lines may be assigned to assess practical application of skills and thought process.

• Final Interview: A discussion focusing on cultural fit, career aspirations, and alignment with Napoleon's values, possibly involving HR or higher-level management.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that best showcase your skills in 3D CAD, DFA/DFM/DFS, project management, and product development lifecycle.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role and responsibilities, the design process you followed, key challenges encountered, innovative solutions implemented, and the final outcome or impact (e.g., cost savings, improved performance, successful launch).

• Showcase Technical Depth: Include examples of detailed 3D models, technical drawings, BOMs, and documentation of design validation processes (e.g., tolerance analysis).

• Highlight Manufacturing Integration: Emphasize how you considered manufacturing processes, assembly, and serviceability in your designs.

• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your design choices, technical decisions, and project management approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Napoleon's Products: Familiarize yourself with Napoleon's product range, particularly in hearth, HVAC, and outdoor living sectors.

• Review Core Responsibilities: Prepare to discuss how you would approach tasks related to concept definition, 3D modeling, DFA/DFM/DFS, and project tracking.

• Practice Presenting: Rehearse your portfolio presentation to ensure clarity, conciseness, and confidence. Time yourself to stay within allocated limits.

• Think Process-Oriented: Be prepared to articulate your design process and problem-solving methodologies in a structured manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount for a design role. Candidates should prepare to not only show their work but also to deeply explain their rationale, process, and the impact of their contributions, especially regarding manufacturing and cost considerations. The AI disclosure in the job posting suggests that initial screening might involve automated systems.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Software: Solidworks is highly preferred. Proficiency in other industry-standard software like SolidEdge, ProE, Catia, or Mechanical Desktop is acceptable, with a willingness to learn Solidworks. This is crucial for creating detailed product models and drawings.

• 2D Drafting Software: Associated with 3D CAD packages for creating detailed manufacturing drawings and specifications.

• Rendering Software: Used for creating high-quality 3D rendered images for concept approval and marketing materials. (Likely integrated within or complementary to the primary CAD package).

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Essential for general documentation, reporting, and presentations (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). Excel will be particularly important for BOM management and data analysis.

• Project Management Tools: While not explicitly named, experience with tools for tracking schedules, open issues, and project status is expected.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP System Knowledge: Understanding the data requirements for populating an ERP system, particularly for Bills of Materials, is necessary. Specific ERP system experience (e.g., SAP) is a plus.

• PLM Software Knowledge: Familiarity with PLM systems (e.g., SAP, Team Center, SolidWorks PDM) as a user is considered an asset for managing product data and design revisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Solidworks is the cornerstone of the technical stack. Candidates must have strong experience here or a clear aptitude and willingness to learn it rapidly. Familiarity with systems that manage product data and manufacturing information (ERP, PLM) is also a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Quality: A deep commitment to leading with innovative engineering, advanced manufacturing, and delivering unparalleled product quality.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to elevating everyday experiences for customers through best-in-class products.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, working closely with internal departments and external partners to achieve common goals.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of constantly seeking ways to enhance products, processes, and market relevance.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high standards in all aspects of work, from design to customer service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect to work closely with R&D, engineering, manufacturing, marketing, and project management teams. This involves active participation in design reviews, problem-solving sessions, and project planning.

• Vendor Partnerships: Building and maintaining effective working relationships with external vendors for prototyping, manufacturing, and component sourcing.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages senior members to mentor junior designers, fostering skill development and knowledge transfer within the team.

• Open Communication: Regular communication of project status, open issues, and potential risks is expected to ensure alignment and proactive problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: Napoleon's stated values highlight a blend of technical excellence, customer-centricity, and collaborative spirit. The "hybrid" work model also implies a need for individuals who can maintain strong connections and communication within a distributed team environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Demands: Simultaneously managing project timelines, cost targets, design aesthetics, technical performance, and manufacturing constraints requires strong prioritization and problem-solving skills.

• Integrating New Technologies: Staying abreast of and effectively integrating new materials, manufacturing processes, and design tools into product development.

• Global Market Adaptability: Designing products that meet diverse international standards, regulations, and consumer preferences.

• Cross-Departmental Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on design objectives and project progress, especially in a hybrid work environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD & Simulation: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Solidworks, explore advanced simulation techniques, or learn complementary design software.

• Product Line Specialization: Gaining in-depth knowledge of specific product categories like hearth, HVAC, or outdoor appliances, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Project Management Skills: Developing stronger project management capabilities through hands-on experience and potentially formal training.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Honing leadership skills by mentoring junior designers and potentially taking on team lead responsibilities.

• Industry Exposure: Access to training allowances for conferences, workshops, or certifications related to industrial design, engineering, and manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents an excellent opportunity for a designer looking to grow within a well-established manufacturing company. The challenges are typical of product development in a competitive industry, offering significant learning experiences.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

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

• "How do you incorporate Design for Assembly (DFA), Design for Manufacture (DFM), and Design for Serviceability (DFS) into your design process?" (Be ready with specific examples).

• "Walk us through your process for creating a Bill of Materials (BOM) and ensuring it integrates correctly with an ERP system." (Highlight attention to detail and system understanding).

• "How do you approach validating design concepts, particularly concerning tolerance stack-ups and functional requirements?" (Demonstrate your analytical approach). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Napoleon and our product lines, particularly in the hearth or HVAC space?" (Showcase research into their products and industry).

• "How do you approach collaboration with cross-functional teams, especially when there are differing priorities?" (Emphasize communication and negotiation skills).

• "Describe your experience mentoring junior designers or team members. What is your philosophy on knowledge sharing?" (Highlight leadership potential). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Organize your presentation logically, ideally following the product development lifecycle for each project.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., cost savings achieved, performance improvements, reduction in assembly time).

• Be Prepared to Defend Choices: Understand the 'why' behind your design decisions, materials, and processes.

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Clearly present your 3D models, technical drawings, and any simulation or analysis work.

• Tailor to Napoleon: Where possible, draw parallels between your past projects and the types of products Napoleon develops.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of technical expertise, strong process orientation, excellent communication skills, and a collaborative mindset. Demonstrating an understanding of manufacturing realities and a commitment to quality will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sr. Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Ultipro recruiting portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience with 3D CAD software (especially Solidworks), product development lifecycles, DFA/DFM/DFS principles, and relevant product categories (hearth, HVAC).

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your years of experience, specific CAD software proficiency, educational background, and any relevant certifications (like CSWA). Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a strong portfolio showcasing 3-5 key projects that demonstrate your end-to-end design capabilities, technical documentation skills, and understanding of manufacturing processes. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Napoleon's products, history, and values. Understand their market position and the types of innovations they are known for.

⚠️ 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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