About the Role
Our client, a distinguished innovator in consumer electronics and durable goods, is looking for a creative and technically proficient Senior Industrial Design Engineer to join their expanding product development team, working remotely with occasional visits to their East London, Eastern Cape hub. This role is ideal for a seasoned designer who can bridge the gap between aesthetic appeal, user experience, and manufacturing feasibility. You will be instrumental in conceptualizing and developing new product designs from ideation through to production, ensuring they meet market demands, brand identity, and technical specifications. We are seeking a candidate with a strong portfolio showcasing innovative product designs and a deep understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and user-centered design principles. This is a remote-first opportunity, offering flexibility while maintaining a high level of impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the industrial design process for new and existing products, from concept generation to final production-ready designs.
- Develop innovative product concepts through sketching, 3D modeling, and rapid prototyping.
- Translate user needs, market research, and technical requirements into compelling product aesthetics and functional designs.
- Create detailed 3D CAD models and renderings using industry-standard software (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Alias).
- Collaborate closely with mechanical engineering, marketing, and manufacturing teams to ensure design feasibility and manufacturability.
- Select appropriate materials and finishes, considering cost, durability, aesthetics, and sustainability.
- Develop and refine product form, ergonomics, and user interaction.
- Prepare and present design concepts and proposals to internal stakeholders and senior management.
- Stay current with design trends, emerging technologies, and competitor product offerings.
- Oversee design validation and testing, ensuring adherence to quality and performance standards.
- Conduct user research and usability testing to inform design decisions.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a related design discipline.
- A minimum of 6 years of professional experience in industrial design, with a strong focus on product development in consumer goods or related industries.
- Exceptional portfolio demonstrating a range of innovative product designs, aesthetic sensibilities, and problem-solving capabilities.
- Proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering software (e.g., SolidWorks, Alias, Keyshot, Rhino).
- Solid understanding of manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, metal stamping, CNC machining) and material science.
- Experience with user-centered design principles and usability testing.
- Excellent sketching, visualization, and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
- Strong understanding of brand identity and market positioning.
- Occasional travel to the East London, Eastern Cape office may be required.
- Experience with advanced surfacing techniques is a plus.
Benefits
- Highly competitive salary package for a remote role.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous stock options or performance bonuses.
- Allowance for home office setup and maintenance.
- Access to state-of-the-art design software and digital tools.
- Opportunities for professional growth and exposure to diverse product lines.
- Flexible working hours to accommodate remote work.
- Employee discounts on company products.