Design Clay Modeling Manager

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc.; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 145,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical/Dental/Vision benefits

Disability/Life Insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Hyundai America Technical Center, Inc. is seeking a Genesis Design Clay Modeling Manager to lead the clay modeling team from early design exploration to production feasibility. You will translate digital concepts into precise physical models and guide cross‑functional collaboration with design, engineering, and prototype teams.

The role emphasizes leadership, craftsmanship, and a strong understanding of Class‑A surfaces and design intent, with opportunities to influence global design programs.

Qualifications

• 10 years in automotive clay modeling and/or automotive design prototyping.
• Ability to facilitate meetings and communicate at all levels of the organization. Strategize work plans and prioritize assignments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of clay modeling activities across multiple vehicle design programs.
• Oversee, monitor, and coordinate manpower, data, and workflow for 3D clay, 3D printing, milling and composites.
• Create and deliver full-size and scaled clay models with high surface quality.
• Lead and mentor a team of sculptors for accurate, timely models.
• Translate digital design CAS data into accurate physical surfaces.
• Collaborate with designers, digital modelers, engineering and prototype teams.
• Prepare presentation models and design bucks for reviews.
• Improve processes, tooling, and workflows to boost quality and efficiency.
• Forecast workload and manage staffing, budgets, and resources.
• Manage hire, promotions, terminations, and performance discussions.

Skills

Automotive design

Clay modeling

Rapid prototyping

Fabrication

Materials

3D processes

Organizational skills

Team leadership

Communication skills

Meeting facilitation

Education

HS Diploma/GED

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Genesis Design - Design Clay Modeling Manager

Summary

Highly skilled and experienced Clay Modeling Manager to oversee the clay modeling operations for Genesis through the entire design concept development process. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced automotive clay modeling manager who combines exceptional hands‑on craftsmanship with leadership. Strong automotive design knowledge, and the ability to translate digital design intent into precise three‑dimensional physical clay models. Lead the clay sculpting team in collaboration with Digital Modeling, Engineering, and Design leadership to bring Genesis Design concepts to life in Physical clay model, from early design exploration through production feasibility.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Essential Duties and Responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Lead the planning and execution of clay modeling activities across multiple vehicle design programs. Oversee, monitor, and coordinate manpower, data, and workflow for the development of three‑dimensional clay, 3D printing, milling and composite material models for exterior and/or interior.
• Create, refine, and deliver full‑size and scale automotive clay models with a high standard of surface quality and craftsmanship.
• Lead and motivate a team of sculptors to support accurate, timely and correctly represented models for surface development, verification, and multi‑level decision meetings. Lead the modeling team to translate digital design CAS data into accurate physical clay surfaces
• Apply your expertise in automotive proportions, Class‑A surface development, vehicle architecture, and production feasibility.
• Collaborate with designers, digital modelers, engineering, and prototype teams to resolve design and development challenges.
• Prepare presentation models and design bucks for leadership, executive, and cross‑functional design reviews. Coordinate with internal (milling, engineering, fabrication) and off‑site (outside suppliers) resources to ensure timely and accurate illustrations of design intent
• Improve clay modeling processes, tooling, fabrication techniques, and workflows to enhance model quality and efficiency.
• Forecast upcoming workload and anticipate manpower needs. Support studio operations, including equipment, materials, vendors, budgets, staffing, and resource planning.
• Lead and mentor clay modeling team members while maintaining high standards of quality, precision, and craftsmanship.
• Manage, train, evaluate, discipline and make recommendations for hire, pay changes, promotions or terminations.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE ROLE

• HS Diploma/GED
• 10 years in automotive clay modeling and/or automotive design prototyping
• Ability to facilitate meetings and communicate at all levels of the organization. Strategize work plans and prioritize assignments

Required Skills

• Experience in automotive design
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong knowledge of industrial clay modeling, rapid prototyping, fabrication, materials, and 3‑dimensional processes
• Strong organizational skills
• Inspire and motivate work teams
• Ability to prioritize and discern the critical path
• Understand corporate/supplier relationships Proficient oral and written communication skills

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Studio Environment -High paced rapid turnaround assignments. Global competition to deliver winning designs. Intense self training to stay current with the latest studio tools. Physical model development under tight development timelines towards approval for design release

Model Strategy and Vision

Model leader responsible for developing and communicating the studio strategy and vision for the company and modeling team. Set the direction for the overall model build philosophy.

Team Management

Oversee and manage a team of modelers and other professionals involved in the modeling process. Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to team members, ensuring effective collaboration, skill development, and a positive working environment. One on one mentoring.

Design Concept Model Creation

Play a key role in creating the concept models for our new vehicles. Initiate and lead the modeling development timelines for fabrication.

Design model review and Approval

Review and evaluate design model proposal developed by the team. Ensure that models align with the established vision, design guidelines, safety regulations, and manufacturing feasibility.

Collaboration and Communication

Collaborate with cross‑functional teams such as engineering, manufacturing and design, to ensure design models meet the technical feasibility, cost considerations, and design requirements.

Trend Monitoring and Research

Stay up‑to‑date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and fabrication is essential to lead and inspire our team towards a state of the art studio. Continuously monitor the automotive market, attend industry events, study competitor trades.

Design Quality Control

Ensuring model quality is a key responsibility. Lead and enforce model standards, guidelines, and best practices. Conduct regular model reviews, assess the quality and consistency of model deliverables, and provide guidance to improve model execution.

Industry and Professional Network

Participate in industry conferences, forums, and events, collaborate with external design agencies and suppliers, and engage in professional organizations to foster knowledge sharing and stay connected with the broader design community.

Continuous Learning and Development

As a leader, continuous learning and focus on personal development. Stay updated with the latest model methodologies, tools, software, and manufacturing processes to enhance modeler capabilities and drive innovation.

WHAT HYUNDAI CAN OFFER YOU

• Zero-dollar Employee Premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for You and Your Family
• 100% Employer‑paid Disability and Life Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off, Including Vacation, Sick, and Abundant Holidays
• Salary Range: $145,000~$175,000
• A Global Environment that Fosters Diversity
• Retirement Savings and Planning Benefits
• Access to Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Flexible Work Hours

OTHER DETAILS

• Candidates applying for positions with Hyundai KIA must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
• HATCI is an Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled and Veteran. VEVRAA Federal contractor.