**Lead Design Model Maker** As our Lead Model Maker, you'll lead the development of physical prototypes, appearance models and functional demonstrators that bring ideas to life throughout the innovation process. You will play a critical role in transforming concepts into tangible experiences that enable learning, validation, communication and decision making.Working closely with Industrial Design, Design Research, Advanced Development and Engineering, you'll combine traditional model-making craftsmanship with modern prototyping technologies to deliver world-class physical representations of future products. **Key Duties include:*** Create appearance models, ergonomic studies, functional prototypes and demonstrator builds that support innovation and product development activities.* Translate Industrial Design concepts into physical models that accurately communicate design intent.* Produce presentation-quality models using a wide range of fabrication, assembly and finishing techniques.* Apply finishing processes including preparation, painting, spraying, colour matching and cosmetic detailing.* Support design reviews, consumer evaluations and executive presentations through exceptional model quality and craftsmanship.* Develop proof of principle and functional demonstrators to evaluate user interactions and experiences.* Utilise a broad range of fabrication technologies including manual machining, CNC machining, additive manufacturing and laser cutting.* Co-own the workshop and prototyping facilities alongside the Front-End Innovation Engineer, supporting standards, maintenance, tools, consumables and best practices.* Deliver inductions and support safe working practices across the facility.* Identify opportunities to improve prototyping capability, processes and model quality. **What we’re looking for**You're a highly skilled model maker who combines craftsmanship, creativity and technical expertise to transform ideas into tangible experiences. You understand how physical prototypes accelerate learning, communicate design intent and support better decision making throughout the innovation process. **Skills, Experience & Competencies*** Degree, HND, apprenticeship or equivalent experience in Model Making, Manufacturing, Product Design, Engineering or a related discipline.* Extensive experience creating appearance models, prototypes and demonstrators within a product development environment.* Strong understanding of model making materials, fabrication methods and finishing techniques.* Experience producing presentation-quality models, including painting, spraying and cosmetic finishing.* Strong workshop capability including conventional machining, fabrication and assembly.* Proven CNC & CAM experience including setup, programming and operation.* Experience with additive manufacturing technologies such as, FDM, MJF, SLS, SLA and PolyJet.* Familiarity with laser cutting and other advanced prototyping technologies.* Strong understanding of workshop safety, equipment maintenance and good workshop practices.* Excellent craftsmanship, attention to detail and practical problem-solving skills. **What Makes You Successful*** Craftsmanship Excellence: You create models and prototypes of exceptional quality.* Visual Communicator: You bring concepts to life through physical representation.* Technical Versatility: You combine traditional skills with modern fabrication methods.* Workshop Stewardship: You help maintain a safe, organised and capable facility.* Collaborative Partner: You work effectively across Design, Engineering and Innovation.* Continuous Improver: You develop new techniques and capabilities that enhance prototyping.* Innovation Enabler: You help teams learn and make better decisions through physical prototypes. **Equal Opportunities**At Vax we are committed to being an equal opportunity employer. We believe in creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive and grow.If you're looking to join a forward-thinking company that values collaboration, innovation, and impact — we’d love to hear from you.If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will do what we can to support you.Please note: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this role. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Lead Design Model Maker
