At a Glance
- Tasks: Create stunning 3D models and detailed drawings for bespoke retail interiors.
- Company: Specialist retail joinery company with a focus on high-quality design and manufacturing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible remote work, and opportunities for training and career development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with hands-on involvement from design to installation.
- Why this job: Join a creative team and see your designs come to life in real-world projects.
- Qualifications: Proficient in SolidWorks with experience in furniture or joinery design.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 55000 £ per year.
Our client is a specialist retail joinery company based in South Leicestershire designing and manufacturing high-quality shopfittings, fixtures and bespoke retail interiors in-house. We partner with retail brands to deliver from concept through production to installation, combining creative design with precision manufacturing.
We are seeking a Development Designer skilled in SolidWorks to turn concepts into manufacturable joinery. You will work closely with sales, project management and the workshop to develop detailed 3D models, drawings, BOMs and production files that ensure designs are accurate, efficient and buildable. Regular workshop collaboration and occasional site visits are required; flexible remote working (12 days/week) is available.
Key Responsibilities:- Create and refine 3D SolidWorks models and assemblies for retail joinery, fixtures and displays.
- Produce detailed manufacturing drawings, flat patterns, exploded views and assembly instructions.
- Generate BOMs, nesting/parts lists and CNC-ready files (DXF/IGES/STEP) for routing/CNC and other processes.
- Collaborate with project managers, estimators and workshop technicians to meet cost, lead-time and production constraints.
- Review prototypes and samples; implement engineering changes based on feedback.
- Ensure designs comply with strength, safety and material constraints; specify appropriate materials and fixings.
- Maintain version control and project documentation.
- Support site surveys and occasionally attend client meetings or installations.
- Proficient in SolidWorks (parts, assemblies, drawings).
- Experience designing furniture, cabinetry or joinery for retail/contract markets.
- Solid understanding of manufacturing: CNC routing, panel processing, veneering/lamination, metalwork, finishing and assembly.
- Able to produce clear, manufacturable technical drawings and BOMs.
- Strong attention to detail, problem solving and spatial awareness.
- Good communication and cross-functional teamwork.
- Technical qualification or relevant apprenticeship desirable.
- Experience with nesting/CAM software and CNC programming.
- Knowledge of sheet materials (MDF, plywood, timber), metal fabrication and finishes.
- Familiarity with production scheduling and project management tools.
- Previous joinery or furniture manufacturing experience.
- Competitive salary and benefits.
- Flexible working with the option to work from home 12 days per week.
- Hands-on involvement from design to production and installation.
- Collaborative environment with direct workshop feedback.
- Opportunity to influence product design and manufacturing efficiency.
- Training and career development.
How to Apply: Send CV, SolidWorks portfolio/examples to contact email with subject Development Designer South Leicestershire.
Development Designer in Loughborough employer: Positive Source Limited
As a leading specialist retail joinery company in South Leicestershire, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our Development Designers to thrive. With competitive salaries and the flexibility of working from home 12 days a week, we offer exceptional employee growth opportunities and a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship that makes every project meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Designer in Loughborough
✨Join Local Manufacturing Groups
Getting involved in local manufacturing groups or associations can seriously boost your visibility. These groups often have insider info on job openings and networking events, plus they help you connect with like-minded folks in the industry. Check out what's happening in your area!
✨Show Off Your Skills in Practical Spaces
Consider participating in workshops or open days at manufacturing companies. It's a great way to show off your hands-on skills in a real-world environment and can sometimes lead to job offers right on the spot. Keep an eye on announcements from local manufacturers for these opportunities!
✨Leverage the Power of Internships
While you're looking for full-time positions, don't underestimate the power of internships! Even if you don't see a direct role, securing an internship at a company can open doors to future jobs. Many manufacturing firms prefer to hire from their intern pool, so it's definitely worth considering.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you find a role at a company you love, like Positive Source Limited, apply directly on their website. This way, you’re more likely to be noticed by the hiring team. Plus, showing that you took the time to seek out their application process highlights your genuine interest in the firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Designer in Loughborough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In the manufacturing-production sector, it's crucial to highlight your technical skills and experience. Make sure your CV features any relevant qualifications, such as certifications in machinery operation or production management, and don’t forget about any specific systems or software you’re familiar with. This can really set you apart!
Emphasise Teamwork and Communication:Working in manufacturing often means being part of a larger team. Highlight your experience in collaborative projects or environments where communication was key. Maybe you have experience with lean manufacturing principles? Talk about how you worked with your team to improve productivity and maintain quality.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Company:Don’t just recycle an old cover letter! Take the time to tailor your cover letter to Positive Source Limited specifically. Mention what excites you about their production processes or products, and how your previous experiences can contribute to their goals. We want to see your enthusiasm for the role!
Use Concrete Examples of Your Achievements:When detailing your work experience, include measurable achievements that can demonstrate your impact. Whether it’s improving efficiency by a certain percentage or successfully leading a project, these specifics can make a huge difference. Numbers speak volumes in the manufacturing world!
How to prepare for a job interview at Positive Source Limited
✨Know Your Manufacturing Processes
Before you walk into the interview with Positive Source Limited, brush up on the specific manufacturing processes relevant to the role. Understanding lean manufacturing principles or quality control techniques could give you a solid edge to discuss how you’d fit into their operations.
✨Technical Questions Are Key
Be prepared for technical questions around machinery, production scheduling, or materials handling. Make sure you can confidently explain how you've dealt with these in past experiences or internships. Knowing industry-specific software could also be a big plus!
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Manufacturing environments often focus on continuous improvement. Be ready to discuss specific instances where you’ve solved a production issue or implemented a process improvement. It’s all about demonstrating your analytical thinking and hands-on approach.
✨Align Your Values with Quality and Safety
In a full-time role, companies like Positive Source Limited value commitment to quality and safety. Be prepared to discuss how you prioritise these factors in your work. It’s about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about contributing positively to their production environment.
