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: Collaborate with founders and manufacturers in a dynamic, project-based 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 or 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 Northampton employer: Z Lab
Z Lab is an exceptional employer for freelance 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 innovative design and technical expertise, alongside opportunities for professional growth in a collaborative setting. Located at the intersection of design and functionality, Z Lab provides a unique platform for designers to bring meaningful products to life while contributing to a sustainable future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial / Product Designer in Northampton
✨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. We want to see how your skills align with their needs, so mention specific projects or experiences that relate to their product range.
✨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 Northampton
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 Portfolio Inside Out
Make sure you can talk confidently about your past projects. Highlight specific products you've designed, focusing on the design process, materials used, and how you tackled challenges. This will show Z Lab that you understand the journey from concept to prototype.
✨Understand Their Product Range
Familiarise yourself with Z Lab's existing products in the sleep, travel, and hospitality sectors. Be ready to discuss how your design philosophy aligns with their premium, sustainable approach. This shows genuine interest and helps you tailor your ideas to their needs.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about materials, manufacturing processes, and user experience. Brush up on your knowledge of TPE, silicone, and other relevant materials. Being able to discuss technical details will demonstrate your expertise and readiness to contribute effectively.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Z Lab values teamwork with founders, suppliers, and manufacturers. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Emphasising your ability to communicate and work well with others will highlight your fit for their dynamic environment.
