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 Sheffield employer: Z Lab
At Z Lab, we pride ourselves on fostering a creative and collaborative work environment where innovative thinkers can thrive. As a freelance industrial or product designer, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to the development of premium, sustainable products in the vibrant sectors of sleep, travel, and hospitality. With a focus on meaningful design and technical refinement, we offer a unique chance to grow your portfolio while working alongside passionate professionals dedicated to creating beautiful and functional consumer goods.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial / Product Designer in Sheffield
✨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, so potential clients can see 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 contribute to their projects, so make it personal and relevant.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t be shy about following up! If you’ve sent your application or portfolio, give it a week or two and then drop them a friendly email to check in. We appreciate enthusiasm and it shows you’re genuinely interested in the opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial / Product Designer in Sheffield
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 copy-paste a generic message. Let us know why you're excited about this role and how your experience aligns with our needs. A personal touch goes a long way in making your application stand out!
Be Clear and Concise:When describing the products you've helped bring to life, keep it clear and concise. Focus on your specific contributions and the impact they had on the final product. We love to see how you’ve turned ideas into reality!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application reaches the right people. We can’t wait to see what you’ve got!
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 Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio that align with the job description. Highlight your experience with materials, manufacturing processes, and any relevant product categories like travel accessories or wellness products.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Technical Details
Since the role requires technical refinement and supplier-ready details, be prepared to talk about your design process. Explain how you approach CAD modelling, prototyping, and working with suppliers to bring a product to life.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Engage with the interviewers by asking thoughtful questions about their upcoming projects and challenges. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can best fit into their team.
