Designer, _MADE

HKS, Inc.•Los Angeles, CA

12d

About The Position

The Designer, _MADE collaborates across disciplines to translate concepts into tangible, testable solutions through design, fabrication, and prototyping. The role contributes creative, hands-on problem-solving and supports research, testing, and iterative development. It calls for an interest in storytelling, technology, and human-centered experiences, as well as a willingness to learn unfamiliar tools, equipment, materials, and technical processes. HKS _MADE (Materials, Applications & Digital Explorations) is a hands-on innovation lab focused on rapid experimentation, testing, and iteration. The team combines creative exploration with technical rigor, using prototypes to investigate materials, systems, and technologies and to inform design throughout the process.

Requirements

Typically 5+ years of experience in design, prototyping, fabrication, product development, or similar domains is preferred.
Experience developing and fabricating physical models, prototypes, assemblies, or products.
Advanced experience and skills in 3D modeling and design software such as Rhino, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or comparable CAD platforms.
Intermediate experience developing accurate 3D models, technical drawings, fabrication files, and assembly documentation.
Basic knowledge of geometric modeling, dimensional accuracy, tolerances, and fabrication constraints.
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.
Advanced ability to meet deadlines at the expected quality.
Intermediate presentation, graphic, and visualization skills to communicate design ideas.
Intermediate organizational skills and ability to work on multiple projects at the same time.
Intermediate ability to build and maintain client relationships.
Intermediate problem-solving ability and ability to apply innovative solutions.
Intermediate ability to collaborate in a team environment.
Basic ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and professionally, verbally and in writing.
Travel will be required.

Nice To Haves

An accredited professional degree in Architecture, Computational Design, Digital Fabrication, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, or a related field is preferred.
Typically 5+ years of experience in design, prototyping, fabrication, product development, or similar domains is preferred.
Experience working in a fabrication laboratory, makerspace, design workshop, or similar environment is preferred.
A portfolio demonstrating design development, technical problem-solving, fabrication, and completed physical work is strongly preferred.
Intermediate experience with parametric and computational design tools, particularly Grasshopper.
Basic experience with electronics, wiring, sensors, actuators, or microcontroller platforms such as Arduino or ESP32.
Basic experience in programming, such as Python, C++, or similar languages.
Basic experience with Adobe Creative Suite or comparable graphic and presentation tools.
Basic skills in MS Office Suite.
Basic experience in advanced manufacturing, robotic fabrication, material experimentation, and innovative assembly systems.

Responsibilities

Collaborate 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.
Translate conceptual ideas, research questions, and design intent into tangible, buildable, and testable physical solutions.
Develop design concepts, 3D models, technical drawings, fabrication files, and assembly documentation for prototype development and production.
Apply iterative design methods, progressing concepts through digital modeling, physical fabrication, testing, evaluation, and refinement.
Assist with engineering, detailing, fabrication, and assembly of prototypes, experimental building elements, mechanical systems, and functional products.
Operate digital fabrication equipment and conventional workshop tools in accordance with established safety procedures.
Explore materials, manufacturing processes, structural configurations, mechanical connections, and assembly techniques to evaluate feasibility, constructability, and performance.
Use computational and parametric design tools to investigate geometric, material, and fabrication possibilities and develop design solutions.
Support integration of electronics, sensors, actuators, lighting, microcontrollers, and other emerging technologies into functional and interactive prototypes.
Collaborate with engineering and technical specialists to resolve mechanical, structural, electrical, and material challenges through experimentation and problem-solving.
Support applied research and experimental investigations into emerging materials, advanced manufacturing methods, architectural systems, and product development.
Test prototypes, collect performance data, and document observations, technical challenges, and lessons learned to inform design refinement and future applications.
Assist in evaluating prototype feasibility, scalability, and potential application in architectural projects, new products, and emerging design services.
Coordinate prototype development activities, including material procurement, fabrication planning, assembly, installation, and collaboration with external manufacturers and specialists.
Prepare and maintain design documentation, fabrication records, technical presentations, and physical demonstrations while supporting project schedules, budgets, and resource requirements.