WS - Senior Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: WS - Senior Product Designer

Company: WillScot

Location: Scottsdale, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / Engineering

Date Posted: September 11, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the complete product lifecycle from initial concept and design through to manufacturing support and product improvement for innovative temporary space solutions.

• Translate complex architectural requirements, building codes, and customer expectations into robust, engineered product designs that meet stringent industry standards.

• Lead or significantly contribute to engineering projects, providing critical technical guidance and fostering continuous improvement initiatives across product development.

• Collaborate intimately with cross-functional teams, including Product Management, Manufacturing, and Operations, to ensure seamless product realization and sustained quality.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design complex parts, sub-assemblies, and complete products with a high degree of autonomy, adhering to WillScot and relevant industry design standards.

• Conduct thorough analyses to understand the impact of proposed designs on other subsystems, parts, and assemblies, ensuring system-level integrity.

• Provide direct support for prototype builds and occasional on-site job support for customer installations, bridging design intent with practical application.

• Actively identify and implement product improvement and value engineering opportunities to enhance performance, reduce costs, and increase efficiency.

• Serve as a dedicated technical point of contact for assigned program teams, facilitating clear communication and problem-solving across Engineering, Manufacturing, Marketing, and Product Management functions.

• Estimate scope of work and engineering efforts for assignments, including the creation and review of detailed engineering documentation such as drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), product specifications, and assembly instructions.

• Contribute to cost reduction strategies and value engineering initiatives, leveraging design expertise to optimize material usage and manufacturing processes.

• Collaborate with Product Management and Legal teams to identify and pursue intellectual property opportunities, safeguarding company innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a blend of deep technical design expertise and cross-functional collaboration. The emphasis on "supporting products throughout their lifecycle" and "continuous improvement initiatives" suggests a need for proactive problem-solving and a holistic understanding of product development from concept to market. The mention of "architectural requirements, building codes and customer expectations" points to a need for understanding regulatory compliance and user-centric design principles within the context of temporary structures.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• A minimum of eight years of progressive experience in product design, with a strong focus on complex assemblies and system integration.

• Demonstrated success in managing design projects from conception through to production support. Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in CAD 2D and 3D software, with a strong preference for SolidWorks and deep experience in parametric modeling techniques.

• Advanced knowledge and practical application of PDM (Product Data Management) and PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) software for version control and workflow management.

• High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) for documentation, presentation, and data analysis.

• Ability to independently design components and assemblies based on general design intent, demonstrating strong conceptualization and execution skills.

• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical capabilities to diagnose and resolve complex design challenges.

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

• Excellent collaborative skills, with the ability to engage in productive design discussions and contribute to sound design criteria and decision-making.

• Superior written and verbal communication skills, essential for articulating technical solutions and collaborating effectively with diverse teams. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Autodesk Revit for architectural design integration.

• Proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) according to ASME Y14.5 standards.

• Hands-on experience with CAE/FEA (Computer-Aided Engineering/Finite Element Analysis) simulation for design validation.

• Familiarity with applicable industry standards and regulations, such as the International Building Code (IBC), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "8 years of product design experience" combined with "complex parts, sub-assemblies and products" indicates this is a senior-level role requiring significant practical application and problem-solving experience. The emphasis on specific software like SolidWorks, PDM/PLM, and preferred knowledge of Revit and GD&T points to the technical depth expected. The mention of "manufacturing tolerances and perform tolerance analysis" highlights the need for practical engineering judgment in design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful product design projects, highlighting complexity, innovation, and problem-solving capabilities.

• Include detailed case studies of at least two significant product designs, illustrating the design process from concept to realization, including challenges overcome and final outcomes.

• Provide examples of engineering documentation created, such as detailed drawings, BOM structures, and assembly instructions, showcasing clarity and adherence to standards.

• Showcase experience with PDM/PLM systems, potentially through descriptions of workflow management, version control, or collaborative design processes implemented. Process Documentation:

• Present examples of how design intent was translated into actionable manufacturing specifications, including considerations for tolerances and assembly sequences.

• Include documentation or descriptions of value engineering or cost reduction initiatives undertaken, detailing the process and measurable impact on product cost or performance.

• Provide evidence of collaboration with manufacturing and operations teams during the design phase, illustrating how feedback was incorporated to optimize production and assembly.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Product Designer role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just present final designs but also the process behind them. The emphasis on "engineering documentation," "tolerance analysis," and "manufacturing and assembly processes" means candidates should be prepared to show how their designs are practical, manufacturable, and meet stringent specifications.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Product Designers with 8+ years of experience in the Scottsdale, AZ area, the estimated salary range is $100,000 - $140,000 annually. This estimate considers the specialized skills required, including CAD proficiency, PDM/PLM knowledge, and experience with specific manufacturing processes. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans to support employee health and well-being.

• Disability and Life Insurance coverage for financial security and peace of mind.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including company holidays, allowing for work-life balance.

• Tuition Reimbursement program to encourage continuous learning and professional development.

• Retirement Savings Plan with a company match, aiding in long-term financial planning.

• Potential for variable pay opportunities, including commission, bonus, performance rewards, or other incentive programs, depending on the specific role's scope within the business unit. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime during peak project periods. The role is designated as "in office," requiring a consistent on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for a Senior Product Designer in a major metropolitan area with a strong industrial sector, considering the specified experience level and required technical skills. Benefits are detailed based on the provided list and typical offerings for a company of WillScot's size and industry presence.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Temporary and Modular Space Solutions (Construction/Industrial Services)

• WillScot operates as a leading provider of flexible workspace and portable storage solutions across North America. This industry demands efficiency, reliability, and adaptability, influencing the company's operational focus and product development strategies.

Company Size: Approximately 5,000+ employees, recognized as a Great Place to Work®.

• This size indicates a well-established organization with structured departments and processes, offering both stability and opportunities for impact. The "Great Place to Work®" designation suggests a positive, employee-centric culture that values growth, community, and employee well-being.

Founded: Information not explicitly provided in the job description, but the company's scale suggests a significant history and established market presence.

• A company with a strong market presence often implies robust operational frameworks and a commitment to innovation, which will be reflected in its product design and engineering practices. Team Structure:

• The Senior Product Designer will be part of an engineering or product development team, likely reporting to an Engineering Manager or Director of Product Development.

• This role requires close collaboration with Product Management, Manufacturing, and Operations teams, indicating a cross-functional matrix structure.

• The team likely comprises engineers, designers, project managers, and manufacturing specialists, fostering a collaborative environment focused on product realization. Methodology:

• Emphasis on a structured product development lifecycle, incorporating design, engineering documentation, and manufacturing support.

• Commitment to continuous improvement, value engineering, and cost reduction initiatives is evident.

• A data-driven approach is implied through the need for analysis of design impacts and tolerance analysis.

• Focus on meeting industry standards and regulatory compliance (IBC, ADA, UL) is a core aspect of their operational methodology.

Company Website: careers.willscot.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's industry and size provide context for the role. As a leader in temporary space solutions, WillScot likely prioritizes practical, cost-effective, and rapidly deployable designs. The "Great Place to Work®" status suggests a supportive environment where collaboration and employee development are valued, which is crucial for a senior-level role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Individual Contributor

• This role is a senior individual contributor position, demanding a high level of technical expertise, autonomy, and the ability to guide projects. It sits beyond junior or mid-level design roles, requiring comprehensive experience in product development and problem-solving. Reporting Structure:

• The Senior Product Designer will likely report to a manager within the Engineering or Product Development department. They will work closely with peers in Product Management, Manufacturing, and Operations, requiring strong stakeholder management skills. Operations Impact:

• The Senior Product Designer directly influences the quality, cost-effectiveness, and manufacturability of WillScot's product offerings. Their designs impact customer satisfaction, operational efficiency in manufacturing and installation, and the company's competitive edge in the temporary space solutions market. Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific design software (SolidWorks, Revit), simulation tools (FEA), or particular manufacturing processes (e.g., advanced welding, modular construction).

• Leadership Development: Transition into a Team Lead or Engineering Manager role, overseeing a team of designers and engineers, managing project portfolios, and setting technical direction.

• Cross-Functional Advancement: Move into roles within Product Management, Operations, or Manufacturing Engineering, leveraging design expertise to influence broader business strategy and execution.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue advanced certifications related to product design, engineering standards, or project management to enhance professional credentials and marketability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and the expectation of leading/supporting projects indicate clear advancement potential. The role offers a path to leadership or broader strategic involvement within the company's operations and product development functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Dedicated Office Environment

• The job posting explicitly states, "This is an in office role; not hybrid." This indicates a requirement for full-time, on-site presence, suggesting a traditional office setting designed for focused work and collaboration. Office Location(s):

• Scottsdale, Arizona, 85257. This location is in a well-established business hub within the Phoenix metropolitan area, offering access to amenities and a skilled workforce. Workspace Context:

• Expect a professional office environment equipped with the necessary tools for product design, including high-performance workstations for CAD and simulation software.

• Collaboration spaces for team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional discussions are likely available.

• Access to engineering libraries, relevant software licenses (SolidWorks, PDM/PLM), and potentially prototyping facilities or close proximity to manufacturing operations for hands-on support.

• The environment will foster interaction with engineers, product managers, and manufacturing personnel, encouraging a cohesive approach to product development. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected. While the role is on-site, the company culture may allow for some flexibility in daily start/end times, but consistent attendance is mandatory. Travel up to 10% is required, which may involve occasional trips to other company sites, customer locations, or industry events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit "in office" requirement is critical. Candidates must be prepared for a full-time, on-site commitment. The mention of travel up to 10% suggests that while the primary workspace is the office, there's a need for flexibility to support projects or installations elsewhere.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications against the job requirements.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your product design experience, CAD skills (SolidWorks), PDM/PLM knowledge, and understanding of manufacturing processes. Expect to discuss specific projects and technical challenges you've overcome.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, explaining your design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss technical details and design decisions.

• Cross-Functional Team Interview: Meetings with members from Product Management, Manufacturing, and Operations to evaluate collaboration skills, communication style, and ability to integrate diverse perspectives.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit with company culture, strategic thinking, and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best demonstrate your expertise in complex product design, CAD proficiency (especially SolidWorks), and experience with PDM/PLM. Prioritize projects relevant to structural design, sheet metal, or modular construction if possible.

• Showcase Process, Not Just Product: For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your design process, key challenges encountered, how you used specific tools (CAD, FEA), your collaboration with other teams, and the final outcome (e.g., cost savings, performance improvement, successful launch).

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value of your work. For example, "reduced material costs by 15%," "improved assembly time by 20%," or "met all regulatory compliance requirements for X standard."

• Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Be ready to discuss the technical specifics of your designs, including material selection, manufacturing considerations, tolerance analysis, and how you ensured design integrity and manufacturability.

• Highlight Collaboration: Provide examples of how you worked with manufacturing, operations, or product management to refine designs and ensure successful implementation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem-Solving: You might be given a hypothetical design challenge or asked to critique an existing design. Focus on your systematic approach, risk assessment, and proposed solutions.

• Technical Questions: Be prepared for questions testing your knowledge of SolidWorks, parametric modeling, GD&T, material properties, and manufacturing processes.

• Process Walkthrough: You may be asked to walk through the steps you would take to design a specific component or improve an existing product, emphasizing your thought process and decision-making criteria.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is non-negotiable for this role. Candidates should prepare to present detailed case studies that not only showcase design skills but also problem-solving methodologies, collaboration, and quantifiable results, specifically highlighting proficiency in SolidWorks and PDM/PLM systems.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: High proficiency expected in SolidWorks for 2D and 3D parametric modeling. Experience with other CAD platforms may be beneficial but SolidWorks is a core requirement.

• PDM/PLM Software: Essential for managing design data, versions, and workflows. Candidates should be familiar with systems like SolidWorks PDM, Autodesk Vault, or similar PLM solutions.

• CAE/FEA Simulation Software: Preferred experience with tools such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or SolidWorks Simulation for stress, thermal, or vibration analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly a data analyst role, proficiency in Excel for data analysis, tolerance calculations, and BOM management is required.

• Experience with reporting tools for design progress and project updates may be utilized. CRM & Automation:

• Experience with PDM/PLM systems inherently involves workflow automation for design processes.

• Familiarity with project management tools used within engineering departments for task tracking and resource allocation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of SolidWorks and PDM/PLM software makes these critical requirements. Experience with CAE/FEA tools is a strong preference and would significantly enhance a candidate's profile.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Designs must meet customer needs and project timelines, reflecting WillScot's commitment to providing the right solutions "Right From the Start."

• Innovation & Adaptability: The company provides "complete temporary space solutions," indicating a need for creative designs that can be adapted to diverse customer requirements and evolving market demands.

• Integrity & Quality: As a "Great Place to Work®," WillScot likely emphasizes ethical conduct and a commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable products.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: The role's responsibilities in value engineering and cost reduction highlight a company-wide drive for operational efficiency and process optimization.

• Collaboration: The emphasis on working with diverse teams (Product, Manufacturing, Operations) underscores a culture that values teamwork and shared problem-solving.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with individuals from various departments, requiring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders.

• Design Review Culture: Participation in design reviews will be frequent, involving constructive feedback exchange to refine designs and ensure alignment with project goals.

• Knowledge Sharing: The company's size and "Great Place to Work®" status suggest an environment that encourages sharing best practices and learnings across teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values, particularly "Great Place to Work®," suggest a culture that is supportive, collaborative, and focused on employee development. The Senior Product Designer should be prepared to contribute positively to this environment through their technical expertise and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Complexity with Manufacturability: Creating innovative designs that are also cost-effective and feasible to manufacture at scale within WillScot's production capabilities.

• Meeting Diverse Regulatory Requirements: Navigating and adhering to a range of building codes and industry standards (IBC, ADA, UL) that may vary by project or region.

• Integrating New Technologies: Staying abreast of new materials, manufacturing techniques, and design software advancements to maintain a competitive edge.

• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively communicating design intent and project timelines to various internal teams and potentially external partners.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD/Simulation Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in SolidWorks, explore advanced FEA techniques, or gain proficiency in complementary software like Revit.

• Industry Standards & Certifications: Pursue certifications or training related to specific building codes, material science, or product design best practices.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Gain exposure to senior engineering leadership and potentially develop mentorship skills by guiding junior designers.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Opportunities to learn about manufacturing processes, product management strategies, and operational challenges through close collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for growth by tackling complex design challenges within a stable, supportive organization. The challenges are framed to highlight areas where a candidate can develop new skills and contribute to strategic improvements.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex product design challenge you faced and how you overcame it, detailing your process and the tools you used (e.g., SolidWorks, FEA)."

• "How do you ensure your designs are not only innovative but also manufacturable and cost-effective? Walk us through your approach to value engineering."

• "Explain your experience with PDM/PLM systems. How have you used them to manage design revisions, collaborate with teams, and ensure data integrity?"

• "How do you approach collaboration with manufacturing and operations teams during the design phase? Provide an example of how their feedback influenced your design." Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about WillScot and our role in the temporary space solutions industry?"

• "How do you align your design philosophy with a company culture that values being a 'Great Place to Work®' and community involvement?"

• "Describe a time you had to work with a difficult stakeholder. How did you manage the relationship and achieve project goals?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline: the problem, your role, the design solution, key technical considerations (materials, manufacturing), challenges, collaboration, and the quantifiable outcome.

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss specific features of SolidWorks, parametric modeling techniques, and any FEA simulations performed. Show, don't just tell, your CAD skills.

• Demonstrate Process: Emphasize your design methodology, decision-making process, and how you translated requirements into detailed engineering documentation.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics to prove the success of your designs (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, efficiency gains).

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared for questions and discussions. Make your presentation interactive and tailored to the interviewer's likely technical background.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical skills but also a structured problem-solving approach, strong communication, and an understanding of how design impacts the broader business and manufacturing operations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the WillScot careers portal via the provided URL.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful product design projects, emphasizing those that showcase complex assemblies, SolidWorks proficiency, and experience with PDM/PLM systems. Prepare detailed case studies for each.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 8+ years of product design experience, specific CAD/PDM/PLM skills, knowledge of manufacturing processes, and any experience with industry standards (IBC, ADA). Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare for Technical Interviews: Revisit your knowledge of SolidWorks, parametric modeling, GD&T, FEA concepts, and common manufacturing processes. Practice explaining your design rationale for past projects.

• Research WillScot: Understand the company's business model, its position in the temporary space solutions market, and its commitment to being a "Great Place to Work®." Consider how your design skills can contribute to their mission.

⚠️ 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.