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Kohler Co. Senior Industrial Designer-BATHING in China

BASIC FUNCTION

Take a leadership role to create innovative concepts, products, experiences, services and human interfaces through the mastery of the design process within the New Product Development community

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities:

  1. Lead large and/or complex design projects from concept generation through implementation.

  2. Be a New Product Development team leader on one or several teams.

  3. Knowledge of the luxury market and trend ability for luxury consumers in different countries..

  4. Understand the consumer, especially in the bathtub and bathroom environment, so that functional aspects can be considered along with aesthetic needs and cost objectives.

  5. Can wear a business hat with a entrepreneturial spirit to lead the new products project success.

  6. Ensure that there is a high level of design within all of the details throughout the product.

  7. Provide design and technical guidance to the team and other Industrial Designers.

  8. Participate in accomplishing the day-to-day activities of the Industrial Design department.

Major Tasks:

  1. Work very closely with all new product development departments, including Engineering, Marketing, Purchasing, and Manufacturing, in a team atmosphere to achieve new product designs.

  2. Create many diverse ideas in order to inspire and stimulate meaningful products.

  3. Participate in new product development activities which include generation of new product concepts.

  4. Determine appropriate approaches to concept development by executing/managing product concept drawings, physical modeling, and product presentations.

  5. Lead/guide design research effort for the Bath tub and other categories.

  6. Maintain current awareness of consumer competitor product offerings including product design trends in China, Asia and Global markets.

  7. Continuously explore and develop new methods of model making and presentation techniques as appropriate to cost and timing factors.

  8. Develop and maintain familiarity with materials and processes used in the industry and the manufacture of Kohler plumbing products.

Profile:

  1. Have one or more of the following expertise that would be unique and desirable to the product category:

· Bathtub - Materials and process knowledge in forms, mechanical aptitude and high affinity for water as an experiential medium, fluid mechanics aptitude

· Home Products/Furniture/Lighting: Materials and process knowledge in metals and plastics, sensitivity to interior design and home environment

· Electronic Products – Experience in developing electronic products is preferred but not a must.

  1. Strong portfolio demonstrating thought process

  2. Good understanding of 3D form in terms of aesthetic, proportion and various styles

  3. Familiar with manufacturing process, especially in metal

  4. Strong interpersonal and team skills

  5. Extensive experience with 3D and 2D software

  6. Creativity

  7. Passion

  8. Leadership

  9. Teamwork

  10. Ability to create a vision and innovate

  11. Common Sense

  12. Positive Attitude

  13. Diversity

  14. Business Acumen

RELATIONSHIPS AND CONTACTS

Supervisory Relationships:

  1. Reports to Category Design Manager

  2. Advises and mentors less experienced Industrial Design personnel.

Organization Relationships:

  1. 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 show 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

Bachelor’s Degree from accredited university or college of design with academic emphasis on product design. Minimum 4-6 years of experience in interior design, architecture, furniture, lighting, consumer research and/or other related field.

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!

*Important update for candidates applying to roles within Kohler Energy, including Power Systems, Engines, Home Energy, Kohler Uninterruptible Power, Clarke Energy, Curtis Instruments, and Heila Technologies.

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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