Product Design Manager

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Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Model/Z seeks an experienced and dynamic Product Design Manager to oversee the mechanical design process from initial concept to prototyping, testing, and final product development. In this role, you will lead a team of Mechanical Engineers and ensure that designs meet all architectural, structural, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), cost, and manufacturability requirements. This role will also be responsible for managing the engineering change management process and collaborating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality products.

Salary: $130,000-$150,000

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Model/Z is a trailblazing enterprise focused on reinventing multifamily housing through the development of standardized, modular units. Our mission is to provide high-quality, low-cost, and net-zero-ready housing solutions that are both scalable and practical, aiming to significantly mitigate homelessness and enhance living conditions for underrepresented communities. As a majority Black-owned and operated business based in Southern California, Model/Z is poised to establish the first standardized modular housing factory in the region. Located in the historic Watts neighborhood of South Los Angeles, Model/Z is committed to revitalizing communities by employing local community members and paying living wages. Our innovative approach revolutionizes construction, transforming a traditional linear process into a parallel manufacturing system that allows us to build high-quality apartment homes in a factory before the concrete is even poured on-site. By empowering Black and brown families and institutions and unlocking the value of underutilized land, Model/Z embodies a model of equitable growth, addressing the urgent need for affordable housing in Southern California and beyond.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Lead and mentor the engineering team responsible for designing, developing, and modifying products in line with business objectives.

Work closely with manufacturing, production, and quality teams to ensure new products are manufacturable and meet quality and performance standards.

Oversee the design and prototyping of new products and support their transition into production.

Ensure designs comply with architectural, structural, MEP, cost, and manufacturability requirements.

Collaborate with quality assurance teams to maintain high product standards throughout development and production phases

Identify opportunities for improving production processes, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality.

Collaborate with design, development, procurement, production and construction teams to ensure capture of requirements and transition of products from design to manufacturing.

Serve as a technical liaison between the engineering team and other departments to facilitate the resolution of product-related issues.

Lead failure analysis and root cause investigations for product issues and implement corrective actions as needed.

Manage engineering projects from concept through production, ensuring deadlines, budgets, and technical requirements are met.

Manage the engineering change process and maintain clear communication with stakeholders across departments

Ensure that all engineering documentation, including CAD models, drawings, specifications and BOMs (Bill of Materials), is accurate and up to date

Collaborate on developing building products with the architect, development and construction teams in alignment with the business goals.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, or a related field (Master's preferred).

5+ years of experience in mechanical design and product development, ideally within a managerial capacity.

Strong understanding of Product Lifecycle Management and experience using PDM and PLM systems.

Experience managing cross-functional teams and product development projects.

Proficiency with CAD software and managing engineering documentation such as drawings and BOMs.

Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

Mechanical Design Expertise: Strong knowledge of mechanical design principles, including experience in concept development, prototyping, and testing

Team Leadership: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and manage a team of Mechanical Engineers, fostering collaboration and high performance

Project Management: Skilled in managing multiple product development projects, ensuring timely delivery while balancing resources and priorities

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Adept at working with manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and other departments to achieve shared project goals

Architectural & Structural Knowledge: Understanding of architectural, structural, MEP, and manufacturability requirements, ensuring all designs meet necessary specifications is a bonus

Continuous Improvement: Ability to drive continuous improvements in product design and development processes

Design Change Management: Experienced in overseeing design change processes and effectively communicating updates to all stakeholders

Technical Documentation: Proficient in managing and maintaining accurate engineering documentation, including CAD models, drawings, and BOMs (Bill of Materials)

Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot design challenges and implement effective solutions.

Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly in the areas of documentation and design specifications.

CAD Software Proficiency: Expertise in CAD software for creating and managing mechanical designs.

Benefits

Model/Z offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid vacation, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as pet insurance, sick leave, 10 paid holidays, and bereavement days. This package is designed to provide employees with a range of important benefits that help to support their physical and emotional well-being, while also providing financial protection and peace of mind.

At Model/Z, we believe work environment, culture, and the opportunity to learn and grow are key elements when considering a new job. We are just the right size to provide the resources and support you need without the bureaucracy of a large corporate environment. We foster a family-friendly and supportive workplace, collaborative and employee-focused with an emphasis on quality, integrity, trust, and accountability. We are looking to bring someone on board as soon as possible. We provide a rewarding and challenging environment. We expect a lot, but give a lot in return. Strongly prefer candidates local to Los Angeles as no relocation assistance will be provided. All qualified candidates will be contacted directly.

SoLa Impact is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SoLa does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

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