Industrial Designer

Rakuten Kobo; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company is seeking an Industrial Designer in Toronto to innovate and design the next generation of eReader devices and accessories. The role focuses on collaborative design, hands-on prototyping, and user research to enhance color, materials, and finishes. This position offers a hybrid working environment and various perks, including flexible hours and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Flexible hours and hybrid remote working environment

Subsidized in-office lunches

Full benefits starting from your first day

Paid Volunteer days, unlimited sick days, and 3% RRSP matching

Monthly commuting allowance for those who are hybrid

Lifestyle spending account

Talent and development training budget

Free Kobo device + free weekly e-book or audiobook

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in industrial design.
• Strong understanding of materials and manufacturing processes related to CMF.
• Proficiency in CAD and rendering software.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop innovative concepts for eReader devices and packaging.
• Create sketches, renderings, and prototypes to communicate design solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment with business goals.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Creativity

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design

Tools

CAD software (Creo, SolidWorks, Rhino 3D)

3D rendering software (Keyshot)

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

Our expanding Hardware Development team in Toronto is seeking a creative and collaborative Industrial Designer to play a role in shaping the next generation of eReader devices, accessories, and packaging. If you're a passionate innovator who thrives in a team environment, loves hands-on design and prototyping, and demonstrates a deep understanding of Colours, Materials, and Finishes (CMF), we encourage you to apply! Join us in bringing innovative ideas to life and creating exceptional eReading experiences through your work!

Responsibilities :

• Collaboratively design and develop innovative concepts for eReader devices, accessories and packaging.
• Create compelling sketches, renderings, and prototypes to effectively communicate design solutions.
• Build experimental mock-ups and functional prototypes to validate design concepts, ergonomics, and functionality.
• Participate in user research activities and integrate user feedback into the ideation process.
• Collaborate closely with design, engineering, product management, and marketing teams, fostering a culture of shared creativity and innovation to ensure design feasibility and alignment with business goals.
• Explore and implement new trends in Colours, Materials, and Finishes (CMF) to enhance product aesthetics, user appeal, and brand identity.
• Present design concepts and rationale effectively to diverse audiences.
• Maintain clear and comprehensive design documentation, including CMF and reliability test specifications.
• Travel to Asia to attend team meetings and vendor workshops.

Essential Skills and Qualifications :

• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design.
• Min 5 years of professional experience in industrial design.
• A passion for design and a proven track record of bringing innovative ideas to market through collaborative teamwork.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a hands-on approach to design validation and a willingness to experiment.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Deep understanding of materials and manufacturing processes, particularly in relation to CMF exploration and execution.
• Proficiency in CAD software (Creo, SolidWorks or Rhino 3D), 3D rendering software (Keyshot), and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.

Preferred Skills and Qualifications :

• Experience designing products in the IoT, smartphone, or tablet industries.
• Proven hands-on experience with textiles and soft goods materials, including knowledge of manufacturing processes and material properties.

The Perks :

• Flexible hours and hybrid remote working environment
• Subsidized in-office lunches
• Full benefits starting from your first day
• Paid Volunteer days, unlimited sick days, and 3% RRSP matching
• Monthly commuting allowance for those who are hybrid
• Lifestyle spending account
• Talent and development training budget
• Free Kobo device + free weekly e-book or audiobook