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Design Director Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

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CAD Designer -SG8103

Madison, WI · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

This is a direct hire position with excellent benefits located on the west side of Madison. The ... Analyzes various design requirements and recommends possible solutions or alternate constructions.

Perform engineering support tasks under direct supervision (e.g. transmittals) * Learn and apply ... A certificate in CAD drafting & design with relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of an ...

Job Title: CAD Technician I Job Location: 2908 Marketplace Drive, Fitchburg, WI 53719 Primary ... Perform engineering support tasks under direct supervision (e.g. transmittals) * Learn and apply ...

The UW-Managed Program Director directs, administers, and manages the UW-Managed program that delivers design and construction projects within the authority of the BOR, but outside of the governor ...

Showing results 21-40

Design Director information

See Madison, WI salary details

$37.3K

$136.8K

$244.9K

How much do design director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for design director in Madison, WI is $136,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,300.00 and $164,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a design director?

To become a design director, individuals typically need several years of experience in design roles, a strong portfolio demonstrating leadership and innovative work, and skills in project management and team collaboration. Many also pursue advanced education such as a bachelor's or master's degree in design, visual arts, or related fields, and develop expertise in design tools and industry standards.

How does a design director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

As a Design Director, you will regularly work with product managers, engineers, marketing teams, and other stakeholders to ensure that design solutions align with business goals and user needs. This role often involves leading design reviews, facilitating brainstorming sessions, and providing clear feedback to your team. Effective communication and the ability to advocate for design principles are essential, as you'll need to balance creative vision with practical constraints. Being proactive in building relationships across departments helps streamline workflows and fosters a collaborative environment that leads to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Design Director vs Art Director?

AspectDesign DirectorArt Director
ResponsibilitiesOversees overall design strategy, manages multiple projects, and leads design teamsFocuses on visual style, aesthetics, and execution of specific projects or campaigns
Required SkillsLeadership, strategic planning, broad design expertiseVisual creativity, technical skills, attention to detail
Work EnvironmentTypically in corporate, agency, or large studio settingsOften in advertising, media, or entertainment industries
Common UsageUsed when referring to senior design leadership rolesUsed for roles focused on visual and artistic direction

The main difference between a Design Director and an Art Director lies in scope and focus. A Design Director oversees overall design strategy and manages teams across multiple projects, while an Art Director concentrates on the visual style and execution of specific projects. Both roles require strong design skills, but the Design Director's responsibilities are broader and more strategic.

What does a design director do?

A Design Director leads and oversees the creative vision and direction of design projects within an organization. They manage design teams, collaborate with stakeholders, and ensure that all visual outputs align with the company's brand and objectives. Design Directors are responsible for setting design standards, mentoring team members, and ensuring the quality and consistency of creative work across various platforms. Their role often includes strategic planning, project management, and communication with clients or upper management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design director?

To thrive as a Design Director, you need deep expertise in design principles, visual communication, and leadership, often supported by a degree in design or a related field and significant industry experience. Mastery of design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and project management tools is essential, along with experience in overseeing brand and creative strategy. Exceptional communication, creative vision, and team leadership skills distinguish top performers in this role. These capabilities are crucial for delivering cohesive design solutions, inspiring creative teams, and ensuring alignment with business objectives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Design jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Director jobs in Madison, WI? For Design Director jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Director jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Design Director jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Design Director jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Design Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Director job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $136,798 per year, or $65.8 per hour.

Product Design Engineer III

Springs Window Fashions

Middleton, WI • On-site

$132K - $159K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Springs Window Fashions rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
The Best Experience Company
Our tagline is "The Best Experience Company." More than just a set of words, it represents the essence of who we are at Springs Window Fashions. As North America's premier window covering company, we're committed to creating the Best Experience for our associates, consumers and end users, business partners, and communities. We want you to join our team of passionate self-starters who believe the world is full of Best Experience opportunities. So, if you're excited about the thought of a Best Experience career with a team focused on creating Best Experiences for all, we want to hear from you!
Position Summary
Responsible for creating, supporting, and developing innovative automated products designs and processes. This is successfully accomplished by understanding, accurately specifying, and adhering to customer requirements, utilizing and applying quality tools and methods, and pursuing continuous improvement in all aspects of product and process design. These efforts have a direct impact on reducing costs while improving value, reliability, and performance. The Product Design Engineer will plan and manage design engineering of automated window shade systems, including motor selection, component design, and system integration.
Objectives
Concept Development (30%)
  • Identify consumer and market needs; translate them into product requirements using QFD and other structured design tools.
  • Develop multiple concepts and functional prototypes for evaluation.
  • Participate in consumer focus groups and market research activities.
  • Reduce early concepts to commercially viable solutions.
  • Create mechanical drawings and 3D models.
  • Support evaluation of concept patentability and help identify potential IP risks.

Design Development (50%)
  • Coordinate and prioritize design and engineering activities based on NPD and product management goals.
  • Design products and components with emphasis on safety, durability, reliability, manufacturability, value, and ease of assembly.
  • Contribute to both short-term and long-term design and development planning.
  • Establish design specifications, select materials, and evaluate potential suppliers.
  • Estimate product and tooling costs and assist with project justification.
  • Facilitate design reviews across functional groups and integrate manufacturability feedback into designs.
  • Prepare reports, summaries, and presentations related to engineering activities.
  • Maintain engineering files, drawings, and documentation in accordance with internal standards.
  • Interface with suppliers and purchasing to resolve supplier-related quality issues.

Administrative & Continuous Improvement (20%)
  • Collaborate with NPD and Marketing to introduce new product concepts and improve existing products.
  • Support and follow the New Product Development stage-gate process.
  • Review patents and help assess potential patent risks.
  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives (root-cause analysis, corrective actions, 5S, process improvements).
  • Maintain and organize lab areas according to 5S principles.

Requirements
Education & Experience
  • BS in Engineering with a minimum of 6+ years of relevant engineering experience.
  • Must be flexible with assignments, able to work independently, and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
  • Must be organized, methodical, able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and capable of meeting established timelines.
  • Receives direction from the Engineering Manager. Expected to manage multiple large or medium scope projects and must document testing and communicate results clearly.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Design & Technical Skills
  • Strong conceptual and detailed design skills.
  • Creativity and innovation proficiency, including concept generation and early design exploration.
  • 3D CAD proficiency (SolidWorks preferred; AutoCAD experience acceptable).
  • Knowledge of drafting standards (e.g., ASME Y14).
  • Experience with metal, plastic, and wood components and processing preferred (Ex. injection molded plastic parts, die cast and die stamped metal parts, aluminum extrusions, and molded wood products)
  • Experience with prototype fabrication for fast learnings.
  • Familiarity with QFD and other customer-driven design translation tools.
  • Strong general math/calculation abilities.

Project & Documentation Skills
  • Technical writing skills for specifications, lab reports, and project updates.
  • Ability to collect, organize, and manage engineering data.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Effective verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to manage work according to established project timelines.
  • Ability to balance and prioritize while working on multiple projects simultaneously.

Software & Tools
  • Proficiency in Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and general PC skills.
  • Experience with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, SmartSheets, etc).
  • Experience using PLM and ERP systems and general document control environments.

Interpersonal & Collaboration Skills
  • Strong interpersonal skills for working with engineering, suppliers, marketing, manufacturing, and cross-functional teams.

How We Work to Deliver a Best Experience: Our Culture
  • Our Core Value: We do the right thing, always
  • Our Seven Cultural Behaviors
    • Empowerment - We trust our people.
    • Ownership - We take 100% responsibility for our roles actions, and results.
    • Leadership - We all lead by example and talk direct with respect (DWR).
    • One Team - We are One Springs Team.
    • Customer First - We consider our customers' needs before every decision.
    • Continuous Innovation - We are constantly learning, innovating, and improving.
    • Speed - We define priorities and operate with a sense of urgency and agility.

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