Specials Estimator/Designer

AIS customers come to us with their space planning dilemmas and look to us for resolutions.  Each problem is unique and requires a unique solution.  The Specials Estimator/Designer duty is to understand the customers’ problem, then develop a solution using AIS design & manufacturing standards to solve for the customer’s condition.

“Specials” is a furniture industry term for Custom or Modified versions of our Standard Product.  The person in this position will communicate directly with AIS customers to understand their specific needs and then to determine if AIS can provide the solution as requested.   If so, the Specials Estimator/Designer will provide a “Specials Quote” to our customer. This position works closely with our Engineering and Manufacturing teams to make these necessary determinations.

The Specials Estimator/Designer will support the Specials teams in the creation and development of new furniture products from concept through to production. This role is ideal for a creative thinker with a strong eye for design, detail-oriented, and a passion for furniture design and manufacturing.

This position does require the ability to work with our customers and to guide them in the right direction.  Sometimes they ask for things that AIS cannot manufacture, you will need to make recommendations on how to accomplish their goals using standard and custom AIS furniture. This may entail hand or digital sketches, CAD Drawings or any other types of communication skills to accurately depict the product that AIS can provide.

RESPONSIBILITITES    

• Responsible for processing special quote requests, quoting specials, facilitating communication with dealers, sales reps, engineers and Customer Service Representatives (CSR’s).
• Managing specials requests queue.
• Assist in the conceptualization and development of Project based Special furniture designs, including sketching, 3D modeling, and prototyping.
• Collaborate with the Project Designer and other team members to refine designs based on feedback and technical requirements.
• Prepare detailed control drawings and specifications for engineering & manufacturing.
• Participate in design reviews and contribute ideas for product improvement and innovation.
• Work closely with engineering and production teams to ensure design feasibility and optimize designs for manufacturing.
• Support the creation of visual presentations, including renderings and mock-ups, to communicate design concepts to stakeholders.
• Assist in maintaining and organizing design documentation, including sketches, CAD files, and prototypes.
• Stay updated on industry trends and new materials/technologies relevant to furniture design.  

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Candidates must have portfolio available for review

• Technical Trade School with a focus on Engineering and/or 3D Drawing
• Experience estimating/quoting prices
• Furniture design or manufacturing is a plus.
• Experience previous customer service role or similar customer facing role.
• Experience with rendering software (e.g Configura/CET) is a plus.
• Strong sketching and visualization skills.
• Basic knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes, particularly in furniture production.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and communicate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving skills and a passion for design.
• Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced design environment.

SKILLS

• Outgoing personality, flexible, good communicator.
• Able to maintain fast pace and meet deadlines.
• High attention to detail
• Creative/Out of the Box thinker
• Effective use of Microsoft Office 365 products
• 3D software (AutoCAD) experience
• Sketching for visualization & Communication is a plus

AIS offers a friendly and casual workplace with competitive salary and benefits program. Benefits include medical and dental, 401K, FSA, and a bonus program. We are looking for someone with a good work ethic and enthusiasm for working in a fast-paced environment as we continue our strong growth in the marketplace.

At AIS, We listen to our Customers. We rely on our Employees. We honor Integrity. We embrace Continuous Learning. We lead with Design. We create Value. We work to make the World better.

EEO/AA Statement

As an EEO/AA employer, AIS will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant's race, color, sex, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, protected genetic information, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, religion, height, weight, other protected group status, or any other basis protected by the laws where we employ people. 

This organization participates in E-Verify Employment Eligibility Verification.

AIS is a Federal Contractor and required to comply with Executive Order 14042. This means that all employees of AIS must (a) be vaccinated, (b) have a medical exemption, or (c) have a religious, moral or ethical exemption that meets EEOC requirements. As a condition of employment, you must meet one of these three requirements at the time of hire or within 60 days of your initial employment date.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by members assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.