Junior Industrial Designer at Woolworths

Introduction

• Technical development of design concepts, model, test & produce prototypes on new equipment or improve existing equipment, through an understanding of technology, materials, and manufacturing methods to improve the function and usability. We are seeking a skilled Industrial Designer to work with our team as a freelancer. As an Industrial Designer, you will be responsible for the technical development of innovative products. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including store designers, sales managers, engineers, and manufacturers, to create solutions that meet user needs, business objectives, and technical requirements. These responsibilities require the Industrial Designer to be highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced and high-stress environment. Additionally, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is essential, as is the ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously.

Job description

• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that each project meets its deadlines and quality standards.
• Identify and manage risks associated with each project, proactively addressing any issues that arise.
• Work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that project requirements are clearly defined and understood by the teams.
• Conduct regular design reviews with cross-functional teams to ensure that designs meet the requirements and standards of all stakeholders.
• Ensure that design files and documentation are properly organized, versioned, and shared with relevant stakeholders, this is to also be loaded on the server.
• Develop and maintain relationships with stakeholders and suppliers, ensuring that they have the information and specifications they need to deliver quality products on time.
• Stay up to date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in industrial design, and incorporate them into your work where appropriate.
• Communicate effectively with all stakeholders, including executives, designers, engineers, and external partners, to ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards the same goals.
• Interpret store design briefs, including the concept, performance, and production criteria of all new & and existing equipment.
• Convert conceptual ideas into technical drawings using relevant software.
• Conduct research and formulate a design proposal for projects, while working on the budget of the designed item to ensure cost effectiveness.
• Identify the suitability, sustainability, and availability of materials.
• Test the design concept and prototypes to ensure safety and function.
• Integration across stakeholders (e.g., marketing, non-trade procurement) to discuss and negotiate appropriate production processes, costs, and commercial issues.
• Continuously improve quality & value engineering.
• Use design thinking methodologies to conduct research and user testing and identify insights that inform design decisions.
• Develop production-ready 3D CAD models and design specifications and oversee the manufacturing process to ensure quality and consistency.
• Contribute to the development of design processes and standards.

Minimum requirements

• Proficiency in 2D and 3D design software, such as Inventor, SolidWorks, and Keyshot or similar
• Strong understanding of design thinking methodologies, user-centered design principles, and manufacturing processes
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Able to interpret conceptual ideas into technical drawings.
• Able to write technical specifications.
• Identifying the suitability and availability of materials as well as researching alternatives
• Analytical
• Planning & Organizing
• Project Management
• Cost Management
• Supplier management/negotiation
• Creativity/innovation
• Able to work under pressure/resilient.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Diploma, Bachelor's in Industrial Design.
• 2-3 years working experience
• A strong portfolio of innovative products.
• Proof of technical drawings and attention to detail.

ADDITIONAL CRITERIA

• Able to travel.
• Will need to be based in Cape Town.
• Excellent communication skills.