Industrial Automotive Designer

Industrial Designer

Base Salary $100-130k

We are seeking an exceptionally talented Industrial Designer to join our design team. This role requires a unique blend of vintage automotive appreciation and modern design expertise. You will be instrumental in creating vehicles that honor classic American automotive design while incorporating cutting‑edge technology, safety, and luxury features. The ideal candidate understands that nostalgia and innovation are not mutually exclusive but can be seamlessly integrated to create something entirely new.

• Design Development & Innovation Create design concepts that capture the essence of classic American vehicles while integrating modern functionality and technology. Develop exterior and interior designs that balance vintage aesthetic cues with contemporary luxury and ergonomics. Design custom body panels and components that transform modern chassis into vintage‑inspired masterpieces. Create detailed design specifications for custom fabrication and production. Develop unique customization options that allow clients to personalize their vehicles.
• Heritage Research & Modern Integration Research and analyze classic American automotive design language from the 1960s‑1970s. Study iconic vehicle proportions, surface treatments, and detail elements. Identify opportunities to integrate modern technology seamlessly within vintage‑inspired designs. Balance authenticity with innovation to create designs that resonate with both car enthusiasts and luxury buyers. Develop strategies for incorporating modern safety requirements without compromising vintage aesthetics.
• Customization & Personalization Design bespoke interior and exterior options for our high‑end clientele. Create custom color, material, and finish (CMF) palettes that blend vintage charm with modern luxury. Develop unique features and accessories that enhance the ownership experience. Work directly with clients on special commissions and one‑off designs.
• Cross‑functional Collaboration Partner with engineering teams to ensure designs can be executed on modern chassis platforms. Collaborate with fabrication specialists to optimize designs for small‑batch production. Work closely with our founder/CEO and VP of Operations on strategic design direction and new model development. Interface with marketing to communicate design stories and brand heritage. Coordinate with suppliers and craftsmen on custom components and materials.
• Production & Quality Oversee the translation of design concepts into production‑ready specifications. Ensure design intent is maintained throughout the fabrication process. Conduct design reviews and quality assessments of completed vehicles. Develop design standards and guidelines for consistency across product lines. Support continuous improvement in design‑for‑manufacturing processes.

• Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Transportation Design, or related field. 5+ years of professional experience in automotive or transportation design. Strong portfolio demonstrating both classic automotive appreciation and modern design sensibility. Experience with luxury or high‑end custom vehicle projects preferred.
• Technical Skills Expert proficiency in:
  Alias, Rhino, or similar surface modeling software;
  Solid Works, CATIA, or Fusion 360 for 3D CAD modeling;
  Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator);
  Key Shot, VRED, or similar visualization software. Understanding of both classic automotive construction and modern vehicle architecture. Knowledge of custom fabrication techniques (metal shaping, composite work). Familiarity with modern Ford platforms and engineering constraints. Understanding of DOT safety requirements and regulations.
• Design Sensibility Deep appreciation for classic American automotive design heritage. Ability to interpret vintage design language for modern audiences. Understanding of luxury market expectations and craftsmanship standards. Eye for detail and obsession with perfection. Balance of artistic vision with practical engineering constraints.
• Preferred Qualifications Master's degree from a…