OPPORTUNITY

Kai USA Ltd. The manufacturer of Kershaw Knives, Zero Tolerance Knives and Shun Cutlery in Tualatin, OR, has an immediate opening for a Product Designer.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The primary duties of the Product Designer will be to:

• Prepare sketches of concepts, detailed drawings, illustrations, artwork, or computer-aided design of products.
  
• Direct and coordinate spec sheets from sketches, technical drawings, and samples.
  
• Modify and refine designs using computer programs to conform to customer specifications, production, limitations, or changes in design trends.
  
• Evaluate design ideas based on factors such as appealing appearance, design-function relationships, serviceability, materials and methods engineering, application, budget, price, production costs, methods of production, market characteristics, and client specifications.
  
• Integrate design, functionality and material costs into concepts based on appearance, safety, budget, production costs and marketing trends.
  
• Provide in-depth marketing trend reports while working alongside Marketing Manager.
  
• Read publications, attend showings, and consult with the company President, Product Development Manager, and Marketing Manager to establish and evaluate design concepts.
  
• Research and develop product lines for introduction into current and new business segments.
  
• Maintain and keep up-to-date an Idea Gallery in a cohesive filing process.

REQUIREMENTS / QUALIFICATIONS

The qualified candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design from four-year college or university. Recent college graduates are welcomed to apply.

MUST HAVE:

• Detail orientation, creativity, and innovative thinking skills
  
• Ability to effectively communicate rough concepts via hand-drawn sketches
  
• Proficiency in SolidWorks
  
• A solid understanding of design and manufacturing processes
  
• Ability to take projects from early conceptual stages to refined design concepts that are ready for prototyping and manufacturing
  
• Ability to work effectively with sales/marketing teams and R&D and production teams
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  
• Ability to effectively coordinate multiple projects
  
• Ability to work within budget and costing of various products
  
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
  
• Proficiency with Adobe CS programs (Photoshop, Illustrator)

GOOD TO HAVE:

• 1-3 years of related experience and/or training
  
• Experience with Mastercam