Design Clay Modeling Manager

Hyundai Motor Company • El Segundo, CA

7d • $145,000 - $175,000 • Onsite

About The Position

Genesis Design is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Clay Modeling Manager to oversee clay modeling operations throughout the entire design concept development process. This role requires a blend of exceptional hands-on craftsmanship and leadership. The ideal candidate will possess strong automotive design knowledge and the ability to translate digital design intent into precise physical clay models. This position involves leading the clay sculpting team in collaboration with Digital Modeling, Engineering, and Design leadership to bring Genesis Design concepts to life in physical clay models, from early design exploration through production feasibility.

Requirements

• HS Diploma/GED
• 10 years in automotive clay modeling and/or automotive design prototyping
• Ability to facilitate meetings and communicate at all levels of the organization.
• Strategize work plans and prioritize assignments
• Experience in automotive design
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong knowledge of industrial clay modeling, rapid prototyping, fabrication, materials, and 3-dimensional processes
• Strong organizational skills
• Inspire and motivate work teams
• Ability to prioritize and discern the critical path
• Understand corporate/supplier relationships
• Proficient oral and written communication skills

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and execution of clay modeling activities across multiple vehicle design programs.
• Oversee, monitor, and coordinate manpower, data, and workflow for the development of three-dimensional clay, 3D printing, milling, and composite material models for exterior and/or interior.
• Create, refine, and deliver full-size and scale automotive clay models with a high standard of surface quality and craftsmanship.
• Lead and motivate a team of sculptors to support accurate, timely, and correctly represented models for surface development, verification, and multi-level decision meetings.
• Lead the modeling team to translate digital design CAS data into accurate physical clay surfaces.
• Apply expertise in automotive proportions, Class-A surface development, vehicle architecture, and production feasibility.
• Collaborate with designers, digital modelers, engineering, and prototype teams to resolve design and development challenges.
• Prepare presentation models and design bucks for leadership, executive, and cross-functional design reviews.
• Coordinate with internal (milling, engineering, fabrication) and off-site (outside suppliers) resources to ensure timely and accurate illustrations of design intent.
• Improve clay modeling processes, tooling, fabrication techniques, and workflows to enhance model quality and efficiency.
• Forecast upcoming workload and anticipate manpower needs.
• Support studio operations, including equipment, materials, vendors, budgets, staffing, and resource planning.
• Lead and mentor clay modeling team members while maintaining high standards of quality, precision, and craftsmanship.
• Manage, train, evaluate, discipline, and make recommendations for hire, pay changes, promotions, or terminations.
• Develop and communicate the studio strategy and vision for the company and modeling team.
• Set the direction for the overall model build philosophy.
• Oversee and manage a team of modelers and other professionals involved in the modeling process.
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to team members, ensuring effective collaboration, skill development, and a positive working environment.
• Initiate and lead the modeling development timelines for fabrication.
• Review and evaluate design model proposals developed by the team, ensuring alignment with vision, design guidelines, safety regulations, and manufacturing feasibility.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams such as engineering, manufacturing, and design to ensure design models meet technical feasibility, cost considerations, and design requirements.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and fabrication to lead and inspire the team towards a state-of-the-art studio.
• Continuously monitor the automotive market, attend industry events, and study competitor trades.
• Lead and enforce model standards, guidelines, and best practices.
• Conduct regular model reviews, assess the quality and consistency of model deliverables, and provide guidance to improve model execution.
• Participate in industry conferences, forums, and events, collaborate with external design agencies and suppliers, and engage in professional organizations to foster knowledge sharing and stay connected with the broader design community.
• Stay updated with the latest model methodologies, tools, software, and manufacturing processes to enhance modeler capabilities and drive innovation.

Benefits

• Zero-dollar Employee Premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for You and Your Family
• 100% Employer-paid Disability and Life Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off, Including Vacation, Sick, and Abundant Holidays
• Retirement Savings and Planning Benefits
• Access to Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Flexible Work Hours

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: High school or GED