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 Leicester employer: Z Lab
Z Lab is an exceptional employer for industrial and product designers, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity meets sustainability. With a focus on developing premium sleep tools for the hospitality and travel sectors, employees benefit from a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and personal growth, alongside opportunities to work on meaningful projects that make a tangible impact. Located in a vibrant area, Z Lab provides a unique chance to engage with diverse clients and contribute to the creation of beautiful, functional products that enhance user experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial / Product Designer in Leicester
✨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 that can land you that dream gig.
✨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, from concept to final product. This will give potential clients a clear view of 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 align with their needs. We want to see that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in their projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up! After sending your application or pitch, don’t be shy about checking in. A friendly nudge can keep you on their radar. We believe persistence pays off, so keep the conversation going and show your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial / Product Designer in Leicester
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 and creativity. Pick a couple of standout pieces that demonstrate your understanding of materials and user experience.
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. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm and a clear connection between your background and what we’re looking for.
Be Specific About Your Contributions:When describing the products you've helped bring to life, be specific about your role in the process. Did you handle the CAD files? Were you involved in prototyping? We want to know exactly how you contributed to making those ideas a reality.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
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 current product range and their design philosophy. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of their needs and how your skills can contribute to their projects.
✨Showcase Your Portfolio Effectively
Prepare a selection of your best work that aligns with the job description. Highlight projects that involved sustainable materials or travel accessories, as these are particularly relevant. Be ready to discuss your design process and the impact of your designs.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Technical Details
Since the role requires technical refinement and supplier-ready details, brush up on your knowledge of CAD software and manufacturing processes. Be prepared to explain how you approach turning concepts into practical designs that can be manufactured.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about Z Lab’s upcoming projects and their vision for new products. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
