CMF Designer

Vertex Sigma Software•Foster City, CA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

This role focuses on initiating and driving CMF (Color, Material, Finish) development, supporting early-stage concept development in collaboration with designers and suppliers. The CMF Designer will be responsible for organizing, tracking, and distributing CMF mastering samples, establishing an efficient in-house system, and managing inventory. A key aspect of the role involves proactively identifying process gaps, flagging discrepancies, and implementing solutions to ensure projects stay on track. The position requires close collaboration with designers, engineers, and leadership to ensure smooth project coordination and alignment on expectations. Additionally, the role involves evaluating CMF-related data and contributing to best practices to enhance efficiency and quality in development, while maintaining clear and transparent communication on project progress.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in CMF Design, Industrial Design, Engineering, Design Quality, Product Development, or a related field, or equivalent relevant professional experience with exceptional ability.
4-6 years of experience in automotive CMF, program management, or coordination, with a strong understanding of industry-specific materials, finishes, and processes.
High color acuity—demonstrated ability to accurately assess and differentiate colors, with the capability to pass the Munsell Hue Color Test with a score.
Hands-on expertise in CMF development, including material evaluations, supplier coordination, and mastering processes.
Proactive problem solver—highly motivated with the ability to identify gaps, take initiative, and drive solutions to ensure seamless project execution.
Deep knowledge of CMF development timing and the color matching/mastering process, ensuring accuracy and consistency in production.
Excellent communication and organization skills—strong ability to manage and maintain relationships with external suppliers and internal cross-functional teams.
Project management proficiency—experience coordinating complex projects, tracking deliverables, and ensuring alignment across departments.
Ability to work autonomously while keeping stakeholders informed, making independent decisions, and driving projects forward.
Meticulous attention to detail—keen eye for material quality, color accuracy, texture, and overall aesthetics.
Passion for CMF innovation—eager to explore emerging materials, finishes, and industry trends to elevate design standards.

Responsibilities

Support the early-stage development of CMF concepts, collaborating with designers and suppliers to ensure alignment with design intent.
Organize, track, and distribute CMF mastering samples, setting up an efficient in-house mastering distribution system while managing inventory logs.
Take initiative in identifying process gaps, flagging discrepancies, and implementing solutions to keep projects on track.
Work closely with designers, engineers, and leadership to ensure smooth project coordination and alignment on expectations.
Evaluate CMF-related data and contribute to best practices that enhance efficiency and quality in development.
Maintain clear and transparent communication on project progress, ensuring stakeholders are informed and aligned.