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 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 York 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 in a dynamic and supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial / Product Designer in York
✨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 skills! Create a killer portfolio that highlights your best work, especially projects related to travel accessories or sustainable materials. We want to see how you’ve turned ideas into tangible products!
✨Tip Number 3
Tailor your pitch! When reaching out to Z Lab or similar companies, make sure to customise your message. Highlight your experience with physical consumer products and how you can help them bring their new ideas to life.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get noticed. We’re always on the lookout for talented designers who can create beautiful and functional products, so don’t miss out on the chance to showcase your expertise!
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial / Product Designer in York
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 Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and get straight to the point. Describe one or two physical products you've worked on, focusing on your role in bringing them to life and the impact they had.
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website! It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy and quick to do!
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 challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will show Z Lab that you have the practical experience they’re looking for.
✨Understand Their Product Range
Familiarise yourself with Z Lab's current offerings in sleep, travel, and hospitality. Think about how your design philosophy aligns with their premium, sustainable approach. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about materials, manufacturing processes, and user experience. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to discuss how you’ve applied it in your previous designs. Showing that you understand the practicalities of product development will set you apart.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Z Lab is looking for someone who can work well with founders, suppliers, and manufacturers. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Emphasising your teamwork skills will reassure them that you can effectively bring ideas to life.
