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 competitive day rates and potential for ongoing work.
- 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 Birmingham employer: Z Lab
At Z Lab, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters creativity and innovation in the design of premium, sustainable products. Our collaborative work culture encourages designers to take ownership of their projects, with ample opportunities for professional growth and the chance to make a tangible impact in the hospitality and travel sectors. Located in a vibrant environment, we offer a unique platform for talented individuals to thrive while contributing to meaningful product development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial / Product Designer in Birmingham
✨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, make sure to customise your message. Highlight relevant experience and explain how your skills can help them develop their new product ideas. We want to see your passion for their projects!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get noticed. We keep an eye on applications that come directly through our platform, so don’t miss out on the chance to stand out from the crowd!
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial / Product Designer in Birmingham
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 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 Products Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with Z Lab's existing product range. Understand their design philosophy and how they approach sustainability. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and show that you can align your design ideas with their brand.
✨Showcase Your Process
Prepare to discuss your design process in detail. Be ready to explain how you take a product from concept to prototype, including any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will highlight your practical experience and technical judgement, which are crucial for this role.
✨Bring Visuals to the Table
Your portfolio is key! Make sure it includes clear sketches, CAD files, and renders of your previous work. Highlight projects that relate to travel accessories or sustainable materials, as these are particularly relevant to Z Lab. Visuals will help you communicate your ideas more effectively.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about Z Lab’s upcoming projects and their vision for new products. This shows that you’re not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to their future success. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and demonstrate your enthusiasm.
