New Product Design Assistant in Stoke-on-Trent

Bring designs to life using SolidWorks in a dynamic, end-to-end product development role. We are currently recruiting for a well-established and highly reputable manufacturing business, known for delivering high-quality shopfitting solutions. Due to continued growth, they are now seeking a Product Design Assistant to join their team.

Location: Newcastle-under-Lyme

Working Hours: Monday - Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm

Salary: £27,000 upwards (dependent on experience)

Role

Working as part of a collaborative and supportive team, the Product Design Assistant will report directly to the Product Manager, while also providing key support to the Project Manager. This is a varied role that will see you involved in the full product lifecycle. From initial design and drafting through to prototyping, pre-production, and final manufacture, ensuring designs are aligned with manufacturing capabilities.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Utilising SolidWorks to produce detailed drafts and designs, with a focus on continuous improvement and development of your technical skills
• Developing designs into functional prototypes, refining and improving throughout the process
• Supporting the team during pre-production stages to ensure a smooth transition from design to manufacture
• Working collaboratively with colleagues across departments, contributing to a team-focused environment
• Assisting the Product Manager and Project Manager in preparation for client meetings
• Attending client meetings where required, offering technical input and contributing to discussions
• Preparing costings using Excel, supporting accurate and commercially aware project delivery
• Assisting with coding products and maintaining accurate data within the ERP system
• Creating and maintaining Bills of Materials (BOM)
• Positively representing the business in both internal and client-facing interactions, maintaining a professional and collaborative approach

Requirements

To be successful in this role, you will ideally have experience in a similar position, with a strong foundation in both design and product development. Experience using SolidWorks is essential. In addition, you will demonstrate:

• A keen interest in a role that combines design, prototyping, and project support
• Strong time management skills and the ability to manage priorities effectively
• Excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy
• A proactive, hands-on approach with strong problem-solving ability
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn and develop
• Strong communication skills, with the confidence to engage at all levels
• An understanding of manufacturing or shopfitting environments (advantageous)
• A relevant qualification in design, engineering, or a related field (beneficial)
• A commitment to continuous improvement and maintaining high-quality standards

Additional Information

• Eco-aware and sustainability-focused business
• Income protection scheme
• Cash plan / medical scheme
• Salary review scheme
• Family-run business with supportive management
• Excellent staff retention
• Death in service benefit

If you have the relevant experience and would like to learn more, please contact Safer Hand Solutions and ask for Hannah Kirk, or submit your application for consideration. Please note, Safer Hand Solutions are acting as an employment agency on behalf of a client. By applying, you agree to register with us and for us to hold your details on file. Due to the volume of applications, we will only contact candidates who have been successfully shortlisted, however we may contact you regarding other suitable opportunities.