Sr Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr Product Designer

Company: Napoleon

Location: Barrie, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design & Engineering

Date Posted: February 02, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (3-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive product innovation from concept ideation through to mass production, ensuring technical feasibility, aesthetic appeal, and market relevance.

• Execute detailed 3D modeling and 2D drafting for prototypes, manufacturing, and product literature, adhering to Design for Assembly, Manufacturing, and Serviceability (DFA/DFM/DFS) principles.

• Manage moderate to large product development projects, coordinating cross-functional teams to meet stringent deadlines and cost targets.

• Maintain and enhance the existing product line-up through continuous improvement initiatives and change management.

• Collaborate closely with engineering, manufacturing, marketing, and external vendors to ensure successful product launches and market integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided listing is for a "Sr Product Designer," the responsibilities, experience requirements (minimum 3 years), and reporting structure (to Technology/Engineering Manager) suggest this role aligns more with a mid-to-senior level Product Designer or a Junior Product Development Engineer, rather than a senior individual contributor role that typically requires 7-10+ years of experience. The emphasis on managing projects and cross-functional collaboration points towards a role with significant responsibility in the product development lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and define new product ideas by analyzing competitive products, market trends, and lessons learned from previous projects.

• Develop detailed 3D models and rendered images for concept approval, and create technical scope documents for R&D and management presentation.

• Produce detailed 3D models for prototyping and mass production, incorporating DFA/DFM/DFS principles, and considering aesthetic appearance, robustness, reliability, and quality.

• Validate design concepts through design reviews, functional analysis, tolerance stack-ups, and practical prototype testing, collaborating with engineering to define test programs for safety and technical requirements.

• Create and maintain detailed 2D drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) for ERP system integration, ensuring accurate drawing releases for prototyping, purchasing, and samples.

• Manage the maintenance and upgrades of the current product line-up, championing Change Notices to improve product robustness, address quality issues, and update existing models and drawings.

• Plan and manage all necessary development activities for R&D, vendors, and cross-functional teams, in collaboration with project launch managers, to ensure timely product launches.

• Track project schedules, report weekly on open issues, identify critical tasks, and proactively communicate project status, risks, and recovery plans to stakeholders and management.

• Conduct design and peer reviews prior to each stage gate and post-test phases, documenting all issues and project risks.

• Plan and manage prototype phases, engineering production runs, and sample validations, collaborating with project launch managers to validate intended processes before full production.

• Provide necessary drawings and data to support the creation of product manuals, work instructions, compliance documentation, service parts, and marketing materials, reviewing drafts for accuracy.

• Champion and facilitate the setup of appropriate service parts, new kits, and accessories for assigned projects, ensuring readiness for product launch.

• Provide mentorship and coaching to junior designers, conducting design reviews and offering guidance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a product development role with a strong emphasis on the engineering and manufacturing aspects of design. The inclusion of DFA/DFM/DFS, tolerance stack-ups, and collaboration with production runs highlights a practical, hands-on approach to design, rather than purely conceptual work. The mention of "hearth or other thermodynamic products" is a critical specialization requirement.

🎓 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:

• Minimum of three (3) years of directly related product design or development experience.

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

• Required experience in sheet metal component design, consumer products, and/or furniture design.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (Solidworks knowledge is essential, or equivalent experience with a willingness to learn Solidworks).

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

• Experience with creating detailed 2D drawings, specifications, and Bills of Materials (BOMs).

• Ability to perform tolerance stack-up analysis for fit, form, and function.

• Project management skills for tracking schedules, reporting issues, and managing tasks.

• Familiarity with material and manufacturing processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific experience in "hearth or other thermodynamic products" is a significant specialization that candidates must possess. The mandatory CSWA certification during onboarding is a key qualification that should be highlighted. The preference for PLM software knowledge indicates the company's reliance on integrated systems for product data management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of product design projects from concept ideation through to production-ready deliverables.

• Clear examples of 3D CAD modeling proficiency, showcasing complex assemblies and detailed part designs, ideally using Solidworks.

• Case studies highlighting the application of DFA/DFM/DFS principles and how they improved manufacturability or serviceability.

• Documentation of projects where tolerance stack-ups were used to ensure fit, form, and function.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of detailed 2D drawings and specifications created for manufacturing.

• Include samples of Bills of Materials (BOMs) generated for ERP integration.

• Present projects that involved significant iteration based on prototype testing, design reviews, or continuous improvement feedback.

• Illustrate how Change Notices were managed to improve existing products.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a product design role, a strong portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase aesthetic and technical design skills but also the candidate's understanding of the entire product development lifecycle, including manufacturing considerations and project management. Highlighting projects related to thermodynamic products would be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $68,400 - $94,050 CAD per year.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for a Sr. Product Designer role in Barrie, Ontario, Canada, considering the required 3+ years of experience, specific technical skills (3D CAD, sheet metal design, thermodynamic products), and the hybrid work arrangement. Data was sourced from aggregated salary information for similar roles in the region, adjusted for the specified experience level and responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage (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.

• Leadership development and mentorship programs.

• Clear pathways for advancement within the company.

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

• Napoleon Cares fund for Associate support.

• Competitive total compensation package, including bonus opportunity.

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

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, estimated at 40 hours per week.

• Hybrid work arrangement allows for a combination of on-site and remote work, providing flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation and should be confirmed with the employer. The comprehensive benefits package, particularly the company-paid premiums for health insurance and the matching retirement contributions, are significant advantages for potential employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Manufacturing (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning - HVAC, and related home comfort products).

Company Size: Napoleon is a well-established, large-scale manufacturing company with a global presence. The description highlights operations across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia, indicating a significant workforce and complex operational structure.

Founded: While the founding date is not specified, the company's description as a leader with innovative engineering and manufacturing techniques suggests a long-standing history and commitment to product quality.

Team Structure:

• The role reports to the Technology / Engineering Manager, indicating a hierarchical structure within the engineering department.

• Collaboration is expected with various departments, including R&D, manufacturing, project management, and potentially marketing and service.

• The role also involves working with external vendors and potentially international teams, given Napoleon's global reach.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on innovative engineering and advanced manufacturing techniques.

• Commitment to high product quality and customer experience.

• Data-driven decision-making through benchmarking, lesson learned analysis, and design validation.

• Structured project management approach, likely following stage-gate processes.

• Focus on continuous improvement and addressing field issues.

Company Website: [Napoleon Company Website URL would be inserted here if available, e.g., www.napoleon.com]

📝 Enhancement Note: Napoleon's emphasis on innovation, quality, and global reach suggests a dynamic and quality-focused work environment. The company's deep roots in manufacturing, particularly in home comfort products, imply a culture that values engineering excellence and practical application.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Sr. Product Designer" role sits at a mid-to-senior level within the product design and engineering function. It requires a blend of technical design expertise, project management capability, and a solid understanding of manufacturing processes. While "Sr." is in the title, the 3-year minimum experience points more towards a mid-level role, with significant growth potential.

Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Technology/Engineering Manager. This implies a clear line of communication and oversight, with opportunities for direct mentorship and guidance from experienced leadership. The manager will be instrumental in career development and project allocation.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer plays a crucial role in shaping the company's product offerings, directly impacting customer satisfaction, market competitiveness, and manufacturing efficiency. By designing products that are innovative, reliable, cost-effective, and meet market demands, this role contributes significantly to Napoleon's revenue and brand reputation. The ability to manage projects from concept to launch ensures that new products are brought to market successfully and on time.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in thermodynamic product design, advanced manufacturing processes, or specific CAD/simulation software.

• Leadership: Progress to a Senior Product Development Engineer, Team Lead, or Engineering Manager role, overseeing larger projects or teams.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Transition into roles within project management, manufacturing engineering, or product management, leveraging design and development experience.

• Continuous Learning: Utilize the provided training allowance and mentorship programs to acquire new skills, certifications (e.g., CSWP, CSWE), and stay abreast of industry advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a product designer at a manufacturing firm like Napoleon often involves a progression from design execution to project leadership, and potentially management. The company's stated commitment to training and clear advancement pathways suggests a supportive environment for professional growth. The "Sr." title may indicate a fast-track opportunity for a high-potential candidate.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "hybrid," indicating a blend of in-office and remote work. This suggests a modern work environment that balances collaboration and focused individual work.

Office Location(s): 214 Bayview Drive, Barrie, Ontario. This location will serve as the primary base for on-site work.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative: The hybrid model and emphasis on cross-functional collaboration suggest an environment where teamwork and communication are highly valued. On-site days will likely be dedicated to team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and hands-on work with prototypes or equipment.

• Technologically Equipped: As a design and engineering role, access to advanced CAD software, potentially simulation tools, and robust IT infrastructure is expected. The company's investment in technology for manufacturing implies a similar standard for its design departments.

• Hands-on Potential: Given the nature of product design for physical goods, there may be opportunities to work with prototypes, test equipment, or manufacturing floor processes during on-site days.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected.

• The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility in balancing work and personal life, though on-site days will need to be coordinated with team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key aspect of the work environment, offering flexibility that appeals to many professionals. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they manage their time effectively in a hybrid setting and how they ensure productivity both remotely and in the office.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely includes resume review and potentially an AI-powered screening or a brief phone screen with HR/Talent Acquisition to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth discussions about product design principles, manufacturing processes, CAD software proficiency, and experience with thermodynamic products. This might involve problem-solving scenarios or technical Q&A.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss selected design projects. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and project outcomes, with a focus on the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

• Cross-functional/Manager Interview: An interview with the Technology/Engineering Manager and possibly other team members to assess project management skills, collaboration style, and alignment with team dynamics.

• Final Interview: Potentially with higher-level management to discuss career aspirations and overall fit with Napoleon's culture and strategic goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your skills in 3D CAD, DFA/DFM/DFS, sheet metal design, and experience with thermodynamic products. Prioritize projects that demonstrate impact and problem-solving.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the design process, key challenges, technical solutions, outcomes (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, successful launch), and lessons learned. Use visuals (renderings, drawings, photos) effectively.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use data to demonstrate the impact of your designs (e.g., "reduced manufacturing cost by 15%", "improved thermal efficiency by 10%", "simplified assembly process").

• Highlight Collaboration: Be ready to discuss how you worked with engineers, manufacturing teams, and vendors.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, trade-offs made, and how you handle design challenges or conflicting requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge, perhaps related to a new accessory or an improvement to an existing product. You might be asked to sketch concepts, outline a development approach, or identify key considerations.

• CAD Exercise: Depending on the interview stage, a practical CAD exercise might be given, or you may be asked to walk through a complex model in your portfolio.

• Process Thinking: Practice articulating your approach to problem-solving, project planning, and managing design validation stages.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the candidate's ability to demonstrate practical design skills and project management capabilities through their portfolio. The emphasis on specific product types and CAD software means candidates should tailor their preparation accordingly.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D CAD Software: Solidworks is explicitly mentioned with a mandatory CSWA requirement. Experience with SolidEdge, ProE, Catia, or Mechanical Desktop is also relevant. Proficiency in creating detailed 3D models and assemblies is essential.

• 2D Drafting Software: Accompanying 2D drafting capabilities within the chosen CAD package are necessary for creating manufacturing drawings and specifications.

• Rendering Software: Used for creating 3D rendered images for concept approval and marketing materials. This might be integrated within the CAD package or a separate tool.

Analytics & Reporting:

• PLM Software (User Level): Knowledge of systems like SAP, Team Center, or Solidworks PDM is considered an asset for managing product data, revisions, and documentation.

• Project Management Tools: While not explicitly named, tools for tracking schedules, open issues, and project status are implied (e.g., MS Project, Jira, Asana, or internal company systems).

CRM & Automation:

• ERP System Interaction: The role requires creating Bills of Materials (BOMs) with details necessary to populate an ERP system, indicating a need to understand data structures for enterprise resource planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: Solidworks is the cornerstone of the technology stack for this role. Candidates should ensure their CV and portfolio highlight their Solidworks experience and any relevant certifications. Familiarity with PLM systems is a strong plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Quality: A strong drive to create innovative, high-quality products that provide a best-in-class customer experience.

• Engineering Excellence: A commitment to robust engineering, advanced manufacturing techniques, and meticulous design validation.

• Collaboration: A culture that emphasizes teamwork across departments (R&D, Engineering, Manufacturing, Marketing) and with external partners.

• Continuous Improvement: A proactive approach to identifying and implementing improvements to existing products and processes.

• Customer Focus: Designing products that meet and exceed customer expectations for performance, reliability, and aesthetics.

• Efficiency & Cost-Effectiveness: Balancing design innovation with practical considerations for manufacturability and cost targets.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expected to work closely with various departments to ensure designs are feasible, manufacturable, and meet market needs. This requires strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• Process-Oriented: Adherence to structured development processes like stage-gates and design reviews is key.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to mentor junior designers and contribute to a team environment where knowledge is shared and applied.

• Problem-Solving Focus: Collaborative efforts to resolve technical challenges and ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Napoleon's values appear to align with a manufacturing company that prioritizes product quality, engineering rigor, and a collaborative approach to bringing innovative products to market. Candidates who demonstrate these values in their work style and experience will likely be a good fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Requirements: Simultaneously managing design aesthetics, functional performance, manufacturability, serviceability, cost targets, and project deadlines.

• Complex Product Domain: Designing for thermodynamic products requires a deep understanding of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and material science, which can be technically demanding.

• Global Collaboration: Working with international vendors or teams may present challenges in communication, time zones, and cultural differences.

• Rapid Iteration Cycles: The need to quickly validate designs through prototyping and testing while adhering to stage-gate processes can be intense.

• Mentoring Junior Staff: Effectively guiding and developing less experienced designers while managing personal project responsibilities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to master advanced features of Solidworks, explore simulation tools, or gain expertise in specific manufacturing processes relevant to thermodynamic products.

• Project Management Acumen: Developing stronger skills in planning, risk management, and stakeholder communication through managing complex projects.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing CSWP, CSWE, or other relevant certifications to enhance professional credentials and expertise.

• Product Domain Expertise: Becoming a subject matter expert in Napoleon's core product categories (e.g., hearth, HVAC).

• Leadership Skills: Developing mentorship capabilities and potentially taking on team leadership responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for professional growth within a specialized manufacturing sector. Successfully navigating the challenges will be key to unlocking these development avenues.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex product design project you managed from concept to production. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on project management, problem-solving, and DFA/DFM/DFS application).

• "How do you approach balancing aesthetic design with functional requirements and manufacturing constraints in your design process?" (Demonstrate your understanding of trade-offs and iterative design).

• "Walk us through your experience with Solidworks. What are some advanced features or techniques you commonly use for complex product design?" (Be ready to discuss specific functionalities and your proficiency).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Napoleon and our product range? What interests you about working here?" (Research Napoleon's products, history, and values).

• "How do you approach collaboration with cross-functional teams, such as manufacturing or marketing?" (Emphasize your teamwork and communication skills).

• "How do you ensure your designs meet cost targets without compromising quality or performance?" (Show your awareness of business objectives).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your role, the solution, and the measurable outcomes. Use visuals extensively.

• Detail Your Process: Explain your design methodology, including concept generation, CAD modeling, DFA/DFM/DFS integration, validation, and documentation.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Specifically point out how you utilized Solidworks and other tools, and how you applied principles like tolerance stack-ups.

• Address Specific Requirements: Ensure your presented projects clearly address sheet metal, consumer products, and ideally, thermodynamic product design.

• Be Ready for Scrutiny: Anticipate detailed questions about your design choices, material selection, and manufacturing considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to not only showcase their design skills but also their project management capabilities and understanding of manufacturing realities. The portfolio review is a critical component, so thorough preparation is essential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating proficiency in Solidworks, sheet metal design, consumer products, and ideally, thermodynamic product design. Emphasize your DFA/DFM/DFS experience and project management examples.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 3+ years of product design experience, your proficiency with relevant 3D CAD software (mentioning Solidworks prominently), and your experience in the specified product categories. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice discussing your design process, project challenges, and technical solutions. Prepare to present your portfolio effectively and be ready for technical questions related to CAD, manufacturing, and thermodynamic principles.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Napoleon's product lines, company values, and industry position. Understand their commitment to innovation, quality, and customer experience.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, including specific responsibilities, qualifications, and compensation, should be verified directly with Napoleon's hiring team. The AI-estimated salary range is for guidance only.