BASIC FUNCTION
The Senior Industrial designer specialized with empathetic leadership abilities and good communication skills. She/He has to have good knowledge of design trends (able to understand and predict), craftsmanship, and knowledge of production limitations. The designer has to be able to balance innovation, aesthetic appeal, and functionality. The candidate will be in direct contact with the top management and needs to feel comfortable working under pressure and take responsibilities and risks under tight deadlines.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Understand the consumer, especially in the bathroom environment, so that functional aspects can be considered along with aesthetic needs and cost objectives.
2. Knowledge of the luxury market and trends and ability to understand the luxury consumer in different countries.
3. Can wear a business hat and have the entrepreneurial spirit to lead the new product design projects to success.
4. Lead large and/or complex design projects from concept generation through implementation.
5. Collaborate with global design teams on cross-category programs to come up with holistic solutions.
6. Understand the consumer so that functional aspects can be considered along with aesthetic needs and cost objectives.
7. Ensure there is a high level of design within all of the details throughout the product.
8. Provide design and technical guidance to the new product development team and other
Industrial Designers.
Major Tasks
1. Research and planning a variety of furniture styles, understanding, and implementing the unique Kohler DNA.
2. Translate research and product planning and apply to the design of the marketing strategic plan and timeline.
3. Ability to work with a variety of materials (metal and ceramic among all). Understand material limitations and possibilities and be able to apply them to make a product trendy but unique.
4. Liaison with engineers and manufacturing staff to find the most suitable solution to ensure the best result possible and a smooth production process.
5. Evaluate fixing costs, pricing, material safety, sourcing time, and manufacturing methods.
6. Storytelling and conceptual thinking. Building, communicating, and expressing the concepts with colleagues and collaborators.
RELATIONSHIPS AND CONTACTS
Supervisory Relationships:
1. Reports to Styling Space Design Manager
2. Advises and mentors less experienced Furniture Design personnel.
Organization Relationships:
Works alongside Engineering, Marketing, Communications, and Manufacturing in a team environment.
External Business Relationships:
1. Occasional contact with design consultants.
2. Occasional contact with vendors and suppliers.
3. Attends industry trade shows and seminars as needed to maintain awareness of competitor products, designs, and overall consumer product design trends.
4. Attends industrial design seminars and courses as necessary to maintain professional skills.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
1. Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college of design with academic emphasis on product design. Minimum 7-10 years of experience in product design, industrial design, consumer research, and/or other related field.
2. Have one or more of the following expertise that would be unique and desirable:
Living products A high affinity for trends, lifestyle, materials, and modern living experience
Basins Materials and process knowledge, sensitivity to consumer needs
Electronic Products Experience in developing electronic products is preferred
3. Able to communicate well in English
4. Highly skilled in design-related software
5. Familiar with various manufacturing process
6. Strong interpersonal and team skills
7. Creativity & Passion
8. Leadership with Business Acumen
9. Ability to create a vision and innovate
10.Diversity (international background preferred) with a Positive attitude
Why Work at Kohler Co.?
Kohler Co.'s mission is to contribute to a higher level of gracious living for those who are touched by our products and services. We understand that it takes investment in our associates’ development to make that happen. So, we offer ongoing investment in each individual’s personal development and the opportunity to collaborate with others across functions and roles at Kohler.
In addition to the investment in your development, Kohler offers a benefits package including a competitive salary, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with company matching, and more!
On November 6, Kohler Co. announced the strategic decision to establish Kohler Energy as a separate, independent business with Platinum Equity as the majority investment partner. Kohler will continue to stay invested in the Energy business following the closing and remains committed to supporting the acceleration of long-term growth strategies for both organizations. Talent and operational transition plans are underway, and Kohler Co. and Platinum Equity expect the agreement to close in the first half of 2024.Thank you for your interest in joining our growing team as we embark on the next phase of growth!
About Us
Beyond the competitive benefits and compensation, Kohler proudly offers a rich history, steeped in creativity and a commitment to our associates and communities. We invite you to learn more about our culture and company at www.kohlercompany.com.
It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified personnel in all job classifications without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, disability or veteran status. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact kohlerjobs@kohler.com. Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
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