At a Glance
- Tasks: Design innovative physical products from concept to prototype for sleep, travel, and hospitality.
- Company: Z Lab, a leader in premium, sustainable sleep tools.
- Benefits: Freelance flexibility with potential for ongoing projects and competitive pay.
- Other info: Opportunity to collaborate with founders and manufacturers in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Join a creative team and bring beautiful, functional products to life.
- Qualifications: Experience in industrial or product design with a focus on consumer goods.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Z Lab is looking for a freelance industrial or product designer to support the development of new physical products across our sleep, travel and hospitality range. We make premium, sustainable sleep tools for clients in hospitality, aviation and corporate travel, and are developing several new product ideas that need thoughtful design support, technical refinement and supplier-ready detail.
The role: We are looking for someone who can help take product ideas from concept through to prototype, CAD, supplier drawings and manufacturing handover. The work will suit someone who enjoys creating physical products that are beautiful, functional and commercially realistic. We are looking for more than speculative concepts. We need someone who understands how products are actually made.
You: You are an industrial or product designer with experience designing physical consumer products. You have strong taste, good technical judgement, and an understanding of materials, manufacturing, detailing and user experience. Experience in any of the following would be especially relevant:
- travel accessories
- eyewear
- soft goods
- moulded products
- TPE/silicone/rubber-like materials
- packaging
- amenity kits
- wellness products
- sustainable materials
- premium consumer goods
You can create clear sketches, CAD files, product drawings, renders and supplier-ready briefs. You are comfortable working with founders, suppliers and manufacturers to turn an idea into something that can be made well.
Details: Freelance/project-based to start, with potential for an ongoing working relationship if there is a good fit. Day rate or project fee dependent on experience. If this sounds like you, please send a short note, your portfolio, and a brief description of one or two physical products you have helped bring to life.
Industrial / Product Designer in Bedford employer: Z Lab
At Z Lab, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters creativity and innovation in the field of product design. Our collaborative work culture encourages designers to bring their ideas to life while focusing on sustainability and functionality, making a meaningful impact in the hospitality and travel sectors. With opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work on premium products, Z Lab is the perfect place for passionate designers looking to make their mark.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial / Product Designer in Bedford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow designers, attend industry events, and connect with potential clients on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your work! Make sure your portfolio is up-to-date and highlights your best projects. We recommend including case studies that detail your design process, as this will give potential clients insight into how you think and work.
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your pitch! When reaching out to Z Lab or similar companies, customise your message to reflect their values and needs. We want to see how you can specifically help them with their product development journey.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to see your application and portfolio. Plus, it shows you’re serious about working with us. Don’t miss out on the chance to land that freelance gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial / Product Designer in Bedford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Best Work:When you send us your portfolio, make sure it highlights your best projects. We want to see the physical products you've designed that really showcase your skills in creating beautiful and functional designs.
Tailor Your Note:In your short note, don’t just repeat your CV. Tell us why you're excited about this role and how your experience aligns with our needs. A personal touch goes a long way!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your descriptions of past projects are easy to understand and focus on your contributions and the outcomes.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Z Lab
✨Know Your Portfolio Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you can talk confidently about your portfolio. Highlight specific projects that showcase your ability to take products from concept to prototype, especially those that align with Z Lab's focus on sustainable and premium consumer goods.
✨Understand the Product Lifecycle
Brush up on the entire product development process, from initial sketches to supplier handover. Be ready to discuss how you've navigated each stage in past projects, as this will demonstrate your practical understanding of how products are made.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to discuss your experience with CAD software and any other design tools you use. Bring examples of your technical drawings and supplier-ready briefs to the interview, as these will illustrate your capability to create detailed and functional designs.
✨Be Ready to Collaborate
Z Lab values teamwork, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with founders, suppliers, and manufacturers. Highlight your communication skills and how you ensure everyone is on the same page during the design process.
