Senior Industrial Designer - Lead Concepts & Prototyping

MINIMAL Inc.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

MNML in Chicago is seeking an experienced industrial designer to lead design projects and collaborate with engineering to deliver production-ready concepts.

You will develop multiple directions, prototype with 3D printing, and prepare compelling client presentations while guiding products through early research to detailed execution.

All candidates must reside in the greater Chicago area and be able to commute to our office.

Qualifications

• At least 6 years of professional design experience.
• Portfolio showing depth across the design process from research to production.
• Advanced 3D modeling in Rhino or SolidWorks.
• Strong sketching skills; quick iteration capability.
• Visualization skills with KeyShot, C4D or Blender.
• Experience presenting to clients.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes (injection molding, sheet metal, soft goods).
• Experience guiding products through multiple development phases, from early research to ideation to detailed collaboration with engineers.
• Ability to manage project timelines and meet deadlines with minimal oversight.

Responsibilities

• Lead or co-lead projects under the direction of a Lead Designer or Director.
• Translate design strategy into strong, executable concepts.
• Develop multiple thoughtful design directions before converging.
• Collaborate closely with engineering to resolve ergonomic and mechanical challenges.
• Prepare high-quality presentation materials and tell compelling design stories.
• Build and test prototypes through iterative 3D printing and hands-on mockups.
• Contribute meaningfully in critiques and internal reviews.
• Support junior designers through example and constructive feedback.

Skills

Portfolio

3D modeling

Rhino

SolidWorks

Sketching

Visualization

Presentation

Project management

Ergonomics collaboration

Tools

KeyShot

C4D

Blender

Job description

MNML in Chicago is seeking an experienced industrial designer to lead design projects and collaborate with engineering to deliver production-ready concepts.

You will develop multiple directions, prototype with 3D printing, and prepare compelling client presentations while guiding products through early research to detailed execution.

All candidates must reside in the greater Chicago area and be able to commute to our office.