Job Description

The Exterior Designer II is primarily responsible for creating new concepts and styling innovations for automotive exteriors. This role contributes to projects under general direction but will also drive projects as assigned. The Designer II will develop both conceptual and production-based exterior solutions in the form of sketches, renderings, and 3D digital models.

Major Areas Of Responsibility (MAR)

Design Ideation & Concept Development - 80%

Develop and present conceptual ideas and sketches, translating into initial 3D models to show design intent before further refinement by Digital modelers or suppliers.
Utilize advanced, design processes to produce exterior sketches and renderings for both concept and production.
Drive design projects involving a considerable amount of perception, creativity and a definite degree of skill, accuracy and coordination
Track design process from initial sketches to the final clay model, prototype or digital data.
Develop design solutions to address feasibility considerations.
Initiate and refine new concept developments while supporting production programs.
Ensure clay/digital modelers’ designs are aligned with project deadlines and fidelity targets.

Design Strategy - 10%

Articulate brand and design vision by creating fresh, innovative concepts for advanced automotive vehicles (medium to long-term time frames) and refining existing production vehicles.
Collaborate with other designers and cross-functional teams to create high quality, exterior design solutions that reinforce a distinctive and globally recognizable brand identity.
Present new designs and strategic insights to upper management and the Design team.

Market/ Trend Analysis - 10%

Conduct market and trend research, translating insights into analysis, presentations, and strategic recommendations.
Attend trade shows and bridge industry-wide trends to the brand.

Education (Minimum)

Qualifications and Other Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in industrial design, graphic design, interior design, or equivalent combination of education, training, and/or work experience in lieu of degree

Experience

4+ years’ experience with automotive exterior and/or interior design

Training/Certification

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

Working knowledge of the automotive design process
Advanced sketching and computer rendering skills
Proficiency with Photoshop, 3D Software tools, and 3D surface development
Thorough understanding of the creative and design process
Ability to work on advanced programs as well as more disciplined production work
Ability to communicate design ideas to modeling team through visuals and verbal direction
Excellent understanding of form and drawing skills
Creative ability as well as design judgment
Proficiency utilizing electronic tools to communicate 2-D ideations
Oral and written communication skills
Problem solving skills with the ability to develop and implement creative solutions

Travel

May be required 1 – 2 times per year

Pay Range

$74,400.00 - $107,850.00

Salary to be determined by education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

Mazda North American Operations

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Designer II, Exterior