Industrial Designer/ Prototype Manager

SUMMARY:
Our client in Johannesburg is looking for an Industrial Designer/Prototype Manager to join their team in the Furniture Manufacturing industry.

POSITION INFO:
Roles and Responsibilities
A Leading Furniture Manufacturer, situated in the South of Johannesburg, is seeking to employ a skilled and innovative Industrial Designer to lead the design, development, and testing of prototype couch recliners. This position is instrumental in bridging the gap between concept and production, ensuring that all designs meet quality, functionality, and manufacturability standards. The Industrial designer should have technical expertise, and problem-solving skills to drive innovation and deliver market-ready products.

Job Knowledge:
Furniture Design and Ergonomics. Understanding of the design principles behind comfort, support, and durability in furniture, especially recliners.
Knowledge of ergonomics to ensure that the products meet user comfort standards. Material Science and Upholstery.
In-depth knowledge of various materials used in furniture manufacturing (e.g., wood, metal, foam, fabric, leather).
Familiarity with the processes of upholstery and how materials contribute to both aesthetics and durability.
Proficiency in how recliner mechanisms (e.g., manual, electric) function and are integrated into designs.
Familiarity with structural engineering to ensure stability, safety, and reliability in the design of reclining furniture.
Expertise in computer-aided design (CAD) tools like Inventor, AutoCAD, or similar programs to create and modify prototype designs.
Knowledge of 3D modelling and rendering to communicate design concepts visually.
Prototype Development and Testing:
Experience with rapid prototyping techniques, such as 3D printing, CNC machining, and handcrafting.
Ability to conduct comprehensive testing, including functionality, safety, stress testing, and customer feedback gathering.
Manufacturing Processes and Production Techniques:
Familiarity with different manufacturing methods such as injection moulding, metalwork, woodworking, and assembly line processes.
Knowledge of scaling from prototype to full production, including cost estimation, quality control, and supply chain management.
Problem-Solving and Innovation.
Ability to address design challenges creatively, optimizing functionality and aesthetics while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
A keen eye for identifying opportunities to improve existing designs or manufacturing processes.
Having this broad range of knowledge equips an Industrial designer to successfully lead prototype development while ensuring quality, innovation, and efficiency in the production of couch recliners.

Experience:
Professional experience in product development or prototyping.
2+ years of hands-on experience in prototype development, ideally within the furniture or consumer product manufacturing industry.
Experience leading and managing the development of physical prototypes from concept through testing and refinement.
Experience in Furniture Design and Manufacturing. 2+ years of experience in furniture design, with a strong focus on reclining furniture or related products (e.g., chairs, sofas).
Knowledge and hands-on experience with various furniture manufacturing processes, including assembly, upholstery, and the integration of mechanical components (e.g., reclining mechanisms).
Engineering or Technical Expertise.
Experience working with engineering teams, preferably with a background in mechanical engineering, industrial design, or a related field.
Proven experience working with CAD software (such as Inventor, AutoCAD) and 3D modelling tools to create, modify, and test designs. Previous work involving structural integrity assessments, ergonomics, and materials testing in product design.
Exposure to Manufacturing and Supply Chain.
Experience in working closely with manufacturers, vendors, and suppliers to source materials and manage prototype production. Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and cost management in prototyping and small-scale production runs.
Employment Details
Employment Type:
Permanent Employment
Industry:
Furniture Manufacturing
Work space preference:
Work Onsite
Ideal work province:
Gauteng
Ideal work city:
Johannesburg
Salary bracket:
R 50000 - 80000
Drivers License:
CODE B (Car)
Own car needed:
Yes