SENIOR PRODUCT DESIGNER

APPARATUS is New York-based design studio that explores the relationship of lighting, furniture and objects in immersive environments, threading the historical and the cultural through a modern lens. The studio is headed by Gabriel Hendifar, Artistic Director, whose vision drives the studio’s design work.

The Senior Industrial Designer is responsible for engineering the full range of APPARATUS products, including new and existing lighting, furniture, objects, custom fixtures and special projects. We are a studio of continual refinement. This role requires master-level skills in SolidWorks and an extensive background in engineering with specific prior experience in lighting. Candidate must enjoy working in a collaborative environment, have a solutions-based perspective, be flexible and achieve results.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implement the vision of the Artistic Director through a broad range of responsibilities including 2D ideation sketching, 3D modeling (SolidWorks), rendering, full scale drawing, prototyping, samples build.
• Lead the design engineering of custom lighting and furniture. Responsibilities include designing, prototyping, red-lining production drawings, components QC, dry-fitting production parts.
• Build and implement expertise to meet design requirements for UL, CB, CE, UKCA compliance.
• Provide timely and accurate redlines and feedback to vendors in new developments and counter-sourcing.
• Collaborate with APPARATUS Interiors department on cross-functional product design needs such as signage, display items, products for spaces and events.
• Accountable for accurate and complete technical drawings that meet evolving internal standards and are clear to globally based vendors and internal manufacturing team.
• Ensure timely updates and accuracy of live models of permanent collection fixtures.
• Lead the standards and organization/file management of the team’s internal server.
• Ensure the Manufacturing department vets all new product design and construction during established checkpoints, implementing their feedback.
• Provide detailed hand-off and of new product from development to production.
• Provide hands-on assistance with gallery installations, product maintenance, photoshoots and trade events.
• Give technical guidance for the manufacturing and sales teams as needed.
• Support management team in leadership and continuous refinement of team practices.
• Mentor junior team members, setting the standard for best practices for the Product department.
• Foster positive and productive work relationships with those inside and outside the organization.
• Consider cost implications of work process and projects to ensure prudent spend.

SKILLS

• Master-level ability: SolidWorks.
• Proficiency in: AutoCAD, Keyshot, Adobe Creative Suite.
• Well-developed aesthetic sense and eye for detail.
• Up-to-date knowledge of lighting and manufacturing technologies.
• Interest in working for an Artistic Director-led company with a specific vision and vocabulary.
• Background in the facilitation/creation of wiring schematics and voltage calculations for LED lighting.
• Broad knowledge of materials and techniques including woodworking, metal machining, casting, welding, plastics.
• Excellent work ethic, demonstrated by a high level of output; ability to self-motivate; ability to manage priorities with a sense of urgency.
• Team player who enjoys the process of creative development and is flexible working on multiple projects simultaneously.
• Enjoys working collaboratively, ability to both lead and take direction.
• Ability to respond professionally to critical feedback and proactive in seeking support and help when needed.
• Ability to manage time, communicate about resources and capabilities, meet deadlines, and manage up consistently and effectively.
• Excellent organizational skills and accuracy in detail.
• Solutions-based thinker with a consistently positive attitude.

EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in industrial engineering including lighting design and manufacturing.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design, Design Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related.
• Furniture design and engineering experience a plus.
• Experience solving complex problems through use of efficient design.
• Significant experience in interaction with fabricators, vendors, consultants and UL and experience building positive and effective relationships with partners.
• Experience with high-end product and materials.
• Background working in a collaborative team environment that values excellence and efficiency.

WORK SCHEDULE

• Full-time hours: Monday–Friday generally 10:00AM–6:00PM
• Longer hours, evenings and weekend shifts as needed

PERFORMANCE REVIEW AND CHECK-INS SCHEDULE

• Regular check-ins
• Annual performance review

Salary from $90,000

This is a full-time position with competitive compensation and benefits. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Position is based in our New York studio. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.