Designer, _MADE

Overview:

Collaborates across disciplines to translate concepts into tangible, testable solutions through design, fabrication, and prototyping. Contributes to innovative design outcomes with creativity, curiosity, and hands-on problem-solving. Anticipates project needs and supports research, testing, and iterative development to advance design solutions. Passion for storytelling, technology, and creating meaningful human-centered experiences while learning through unfamiliar tools, equipment, materials, and technical processes.

HKS _MADE (Materials, Applications & Digital Explorations) is a hands-on innovation lab dedicated to rapid experimentation, testing, and iteration. It is a place where bold thinking is encouraged, and the boundaries of traditional practice are intentionally pushed. The team blends creative exploration with technical rigor, using prototyping as a tool to investigate materials, systems, and technologies in ways that spark new possibilities and inform the design process at every stage.

Responsibilities:

Collaborates with designers, architects, engineers, researchers, and fabrication specialists across HKS futures and _MADE studios to develop functional prototypes for architectural spaces, building elements, products, and interactive environments

Translates conceptual ideas, research questions, and design intent into tangible, buildable, and testable physical solutions

Develops design concepts, 3D models, technical drawings, fabrication files, and assembly documentation to support prototype development and production

Applies iterative design methodologies, progressing concepts through digital modeling, physical fabrication, testing, evaluation, and refinement

Assists in engineering, detailing, fabrication, and assembly of physical prototypes, experimental building elements, mechanical systems, and functional products

Operates digital fabrication equipment, including 3D printers, CNC routers, laser cutters, and conventional workshop tools, in accordance with established safety procedures

Explores materials, manufacturing processes, structural configurations, mechanical connections, and assembly techniques to evaluate feasibility, constructability, and performance

Utilizes computational and parametric design tools to investigate geometric, material, and fabrication possibilities and develop innovative design solutions

Supports the integration of electronics, sensors, actuators, lighting, microcontrollers, and other emerging technologies into functional and interactive prototypes

Collaborates with engineering and technical specialists to resolve mechanical, structural, electrical, and material challenges through practical experimentation and problem-solving

Supports applied research and experimental investigations into emerging materials, advanced manufacturing methods, architectural systems, and product development

Conducts prototype testing, collects performance data, and documents observations, technical challenges, and lessons learned to inform design refinement and future applications

Assists in evaluating the feasibility, scalability, and potential application of prototypes into architectural projects, new products, and emerging design services

• •Coordinates prototype development activities, including material procurement, fabrication planning, assembly, installation, and collaboration with external manufacturers and specialists
• •Prepares and maintains design documentation, fabrication records, technical presentations, and physical demonstrations while supporting project schedules, budgets, and resource requirements

Qualifications:

Education and Experience:

Accredited professional degree in Architecture, Computational. Design, Digital Fabrication, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, or related field preferred

Typically 5+ years of experience in design, prototyping, fabrication, product development, or similar domains preferred

Experience developing and fabricating physical models, prototypes, assemblies, or products

• •Experience working in a fabrication laboratory, makerspace, design workshop, or a similar environment preferred
• •Portfolio demonstrating design development, technical problem-solving, fabrication, and completed physical work is strongly preferred

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities :

Advanced: expert-level experience, knowledge or skills

Intermediate: experience, knowledge or skills required to produce high-quality solutions or work

Basic: familiar with primary concepts or capabilities and may perform elementary functions depending on role

Advanced experience and skills in 3D modeling and design software, such as Rhino, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or comparable CAD platforms

Intermediate experience with parametric and computational design tools, particularly Grasshopper preferred

Intermediate experience developing accurate 3D models, technical drawings, fabrication files, and assembly documentation

Basic knowledge of geometric modeling, dimensional accuracy, tolerances, and fabrication constraints

Basic experience with electronics, wiring, sensors, actuators, or microcontroller platforms, such as Arduino or ESP32 preferred

Basic experience in programming (e.g., Python, C++, or similar languages) preferred

Basic experience with Adobe Creative Suite or comparable graphic and presentation tools

Basic skills in MS Office Suite preferred

Intermediate experience with digital fabrication technologies, including FDM or resin 3D printing, CNC machining, and laser cutting

Intermediate experience with conventional workshop tools, fabrication processes, and safe equipment operation

Basic experience translating digital designs into fabricated components and assembled prototypes

Basic experience in advanced manufacturing, robotic fabrication, material experimentation, and innovative assembly systems

Advanced ability to effectively meet deadlines at expected quality

Intermediate presentation, graphic and visualization skills to communicate design ideas

Intermediate organizational skills and the ability to work on multiple projects at the same time

Intermediate ability to build and maintain client relationships

Intermediate ability to problem solve and apply innovative solutions

Intermediate ability to collaborate in a team environment

• •Basic ability to communicate in a clear, concise and professional manner both verbally and in writing
• •Travel will be required

If you currently work for HKS, please submit your application via the Internal Careers Portal .

HKS is an EEO/AA Employer: M/F/Disabled/Veteran