Product Designer - Kitchen, Dining, and Entertaining

Position Overview

MacKenzie-Childs is searching for an experienced Product Designer to spearhead the creation and development of items across our Kitchen, Dining, and Entertaining lines. This role merges creativity with technical design prowess to deliver products that embody our brand identity, satisfy customer needs, and align with business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and bring innovative products to life for Kitchen, Dining, and Entertaining themes, guiding them from initial ideas through production readiness.
• Balance creative expression, practical functionality, and commercial viability in product design.
• Use digital tools and traditional sketches to develop prototypes and detailed product specifications.
• Compile Manufacturing Development Packages and technical documents for smooth production processes.
• Collaborate closely with teams including Product Development, Production, Quality Assurance, and external vendors ensuring designs are accurately realized.
• Manage multiple projects and timelines effectively while actively contributing in product evaluations and design assessments.
• Stay informed about materials, manufacturing techniques, and structural construction to improve design quality.

Digital Product Design

• Create high-fidelity 3D models, CAD drawings, renderings, and technical documentation supporting product progression.
• Generate polished visual materials for internal and external use, aiding presentations and vendor communications.
• Utilize 3D printing and scanning technologies for prototype development and maintenance of digital product assets.
• Incorporate iterative feedback to refine designs while assuring manufacturability.

Artwork and Design Resource Management

• Develop and manage production-ready artwork and digital resources compliant with MacKenzie-Childs branding and manufacturing standards.
• Maintain design libraries, including patterns and materials, to enhance operational consistency and productivity.

Technical Documentation and CAD

• Produce precise 2D and 3D CAD drawings along with clear product documentation detailing dimensions, materials, finishes, assembly, and construction.
• Support manufacturing partners through well-organized and thorough technical materials throughout the design lifecycle.

Continuous Innovation and Process Enhancements

• Identify and implement opportunities for product and workflow improvements leveraging AI, automation, and new technologies.
• Create standardized templates and reusable digital assets to sustain team efficiency over the long term.

Cross-Department Collaboration

• Work alongside various departments and external vendors to communicate design concepts and ensure alignment with product goals.
• Present design proposals confidently and offer constructive critique to support informed decision-making.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Product Design or related fields such as Industrial or Furniture Design preferred.
• Between 3 to 5 years of professional experience in product design, ideally in sectors like kitchen, dining, home décor, or consumer products.
• Demonstrated ability to lead products through entire development phases from ideation to production release.
• Expertise in 3D modeling, visualization, prototyping, and technical documentation.
• A robust portfolio showing creativity, craftsmanship, and commercial product development acumen.
• Capable of managing multiple projects in fast-paced, collaborative environments.

Essential Skills

• Strong design sense including form, color, materials, finishes, and patterns.
• Use of market trends and consumer insights to design profitable products.
• Proficiency with digital design platforms such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Rhino, Blender, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, SketchUp, AutoCAD; familiarity with AI design tools beneficial.
• Knowledge of prototype creation, 3D printing, and manufacturing processes with excellent visual communication skills.
• Effective project management, communication, and teamwork abilities.

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

This position is based in an office environment in Aurora, New York, with occasional outdoor work for product photography. The candidate must be able to perform typical studio-related physical activities including sitting, standing, lifting samples, using various design tools, and long-duration computer use. Travel is required for factory visits, vendor meetings, and other business engagements.

Compensation & Benefits

• Annual salary ranging from $65,000 to $75,000 depending on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401K retirement plans with company match.
• Paid vacation, personal time off, and holidays.
• Company-sponsored life insurance and long-term disability coverage.
• Health Savings Account with employer contribution.
• Employee discounts, Verizon discount, referral bonuses.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

Diversity and Inclusion

MacKenzie-Childs is dedicated to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.