Junior Designer

About Koala

Koala is a globally recognized furniture brand originating from Australia, renowned for its innovative designs aimed at enhancing comfort in people's homes worldwide. Since its inception in 2015, Koala has expanded its reach to markets in Australia, Japan, the US, and the UK. As a B Corp-certified and data-driven company, Koala is dedicated to revolutionizing furniture through meaningful sustainability, innovation, and design excellence.

Role Overview

The Junior Designer will play an essential role in supporting the execution of design projects while honing foundational design skills. This position involves assisting with product design delivery, ensuring alignment with Koala’s signature Design Identity, and preparing for advancement into senior design roles.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out assigned design assignments across various product lines to aid project completion.
• Assist the Design Manager with sketching new design ideas, creating renderings, drafting supplier briefs, and preparing technical resources that comply with Koala's design criteria.
• Liaise with suppliers to manage sample and trim requests and monitor adherence to project schedules.
• Participate actively in weekly hub meetings to stay updated on priorities and contribute to team goals.
• Manage small-scale projects or distinct components from concept to prototyping under guidance from senior designers.
• Maintain and update digital and physical Color, Material, and Finish (CMF) libraries, including workshop tools and spaces.
• Prepare visual presentations and written materials to support internal meetings, stakeholder engagements, and formal design reviews.
• Engage in design critiques, team meetings, and project milestone reviews to ensure alignment.
• Work collaboratively with Designers, R&D, and Technical Designers to produce consistent, on-brand results.
• Support R&D by assisting with physical prototype construction, 3D printing, and technical drawing creation using SolidWorks.
• Create detailed handover briefs including 3D product scans for use in web rendering assets.
• Learn supplier brief management, design revision handling, and internal communication alongside Product Designers and Design Managers.
• Approach all learning opportunities with humility and a desire to grow by absorbing feedback from senior colleagues and peers.
• Apply the principles of Koala’s Design Identity, CMF direction, and storytelling methods with growing confidence and independence.
• Develop strong skills in visual communication, design problem-solving, and responding constructively to feedback.
• Gain proficiency in Koala’s design workflows, creative frameworks, and internal tools through practical experience.
• Proactively seek coaching and feedback to enhance personal development and team contribution.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Possesses 1-2 years of experience in product or industrial design environments, including internships or graduate roles.
• Holds a tertiary qualification in Industrial Design, Product Design or a related discipline.
• Strong abilities in sketching and visual communication with a keen design sensibility.
• Basic knowledge of materials, furniture building techniques, and CMF applications.
• Proficient with design software such as Rhino, Adobe Creative Suite, SolidWorks, and KeyShot or similar tools.
• Detail-focused, organized, deeply curious, and eager to learn.
• Professional demeanor paired with a positive approach to all tasks regardless of size.
• Collaborative team player open to feedback and rapid iteration.
• Genuine interest in sustainability, innovation, and enhancing everyday product experiences.

Perks & Benefits

• Flexible hybrid work model featuring approximately three days per week at the Alexandria office and work-from-home options.
• Generous leave provisions including volunteer, parental, and additional Koala life leave to support work-life balance.
• Well-stocked kitchen emphasizing fresh, local, healthy produce including breakfast options, salad bar, kombucha selection, and monthly barbecues.
• Pet-friendly office environment promoting a welcoming workplace atmosphere.
• Employee perks like complimentary Koala products and discounted prices for friends and family.
• Comprehensive wellbeing support via an Employee Assistance Program offering unlimited sessions for financial, work-related, relational, family, or mental health assistance.
• Opportunities for career growth through learning platforms, designated growth budgets, and dedicated development days.
• Strong commitment to community and sustainability, evidenced by B Corp certification, WWF partnership, volunteer days, and various social responsibility initiatives.

Koala's Culture and Values

Koala encourages a workplace that values ambition, curiosity, and selflessness. The team thrives on challenging norms, bringing fresh perspectives, and maintaining a positive, growth-oriented mindset. Transparency, empathy, and surpassing customer expectations are core values. Koala fosters inclusivity and welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing that everyone has opportunities to thrive.

Join Koala for a role that offers meaningful work alongside supportive colleagues in a dynamic and innovative environment.