Manager, Design-3D CAD

Kendra Scott•Austin, TX

14h•Onsite

About The Position

The 3D CAD Design Manager is responsible for leading the design and development of on-brand, trend-relevant jewelry collections through 3D CAD modeling, rendering, and prototyping. This role combines creative leadership, technical expertise, and managerial oversight to ensure high-quality, timely delivery of product designs. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in 3D design and rendering, excellent aesthetic sensibilities, and a passion for mentoring and process improvement. This full-time, exempt role reports to the Design Director.

Requirements

Degree or equivalent experience in jewelry design, industrial design, accessories design, mechanical engineering, or metal hard goods manufacturing
7+ years of experience as a 3D Designer, ideally within a high-growth company
Strong creative vision, refined taste, and proven ability to bring concepts to life in 3D
Expert in Rhino 3D, including complex NURBS modeling and editing
Advanced rendering skills with high visual accuracy
Proficiency in sub-d modeling software or willingness to self-train
Skills in 2D tools (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and additional 3D platforms
Expertise in 3D modeling for physical output, including CAD and technical model making
Deep understanding of jewelry and metal manufacturing processes
Experience designing functional mechanisms like clasps and hinges
Comfortable working with diverse materials: precious/plated metals, gemstones, acrylic, wood, etc.
Hands-on experience with 3D printing, post-processing, and basic printer maintenance
Proven ability to break down complex projects into actionable tasks aligned with company goals
Data-driven and solutions-oriented, with strong communication and planning skills
Track record of launching innovative, technically complex products
Growth mindset: open to learning, sharing ideas, and taking smart risks
Strategic, forward-thinking mindset with a strong commitment to efficient, solution-oriented problem solving.
Strong cross-functional collaboration and communication skills
Committed to developing others and making a positive impact on their careers
Adaptability to changing business needs and tight timelines
A shared appreciation for our 3 core values of Family, Fashion and Philanthropy

Responsibilities

Conceptualize, model and prototype design concepts into reality, through the creation of 3D models and photorealistic imagery (both static and motion)
Concept, design, illustrate and 3D model a high volume of jewelry styles
Maintain a keen design eye, attention to detail and trend understanding
Interpret conceptual direction from Design management, expounding upon concept- providing back sketches, mock-ups and other communication of ideas to gain approval for prototyping
Maintain consistent dialogue with Design Management to ensure alignment with design intent and assortment goals during prototyping phase and throughout design process
Take feedback from Design management and edit designs accordingly
Provide customized training and mentorship on best practices for process, equipment and design aesthetic to internal and external stakeholders
Create and oversee creation of highest quality models using 3D design software (Rhino 8, Z-Brush)
Create editable 3D files to fashion team standards (following layering, naming, file size conventions etc)
Create photo realistic renderings using 3D rendering software (Keyshot Studio)
Prepare technical drawings and file savings
Explore traditional and non-traditional jewelry techniques as needed to create prototypes
Analyze, approve or oversee edits to KS and factory produced 3D models to meet design intent, production needs and monetary goals
Research jewelry relevant trends and competitor product offering
Keep up to date with latest technology and industry standards around jewelry and product design
Ensure proper use, maintenance, and troubleshooting of 3D printers and associated software as needed
Provide innovative design thinking, creative solutions, and analytical and technical insight as needed
Establish meetings, conduct meetings/presentations, and provide customized training
Manage and delegate design tasks across multiple projects, ensuring high-quality execution and on-time delivery.
Utilize Tools including Asana, Smartsheet and Powerpoint decks for project management and sharing design details
Mentor junior team members on interpreting conceptual direction and translating it into 2D renderings, 3D CAD models, technical specs, and finished assortments
Train team on component breakout, construction methods, and fabrication techniques that align with design intent and production standards
Support the 3D design team with clear guidance, feedback, and ongoing development, collaborating with peers
Maintain consistent communication with Design Management to align on vision, direction, and goals throughout the design process
Communicate project status and shifting priorities proactively to leadership and cross-functional partners
Identify and implement process improvements, digital tools, and workflows; establish and continuously refine best practices to enhance team efficiency and design quality
Establish and maintain organizational standards for shared 2D/3D files and design references
Represent the Design department in meetings and presentations as needed
Collaborate closely with Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing to align priorities
Travel to vendors and trade shows as needed to support design development and execution
Champion the Kendra Scott design aesthetic, quality expectation and innovative mindset
Maintain a high level of communication and collaboration with Supervisor and members of the design team to ensure continual progress toward timely, accurate and cohesive assortment completion
Confer within design team and cross functional teams to establish and assess best practices for day-to-day operation and organization of all shared design data
Contribute own and regard others personal aesthetic sensibilities to enrich team perspective
Must be organized, able to act independently as well as take direction, and able to switch rapidly between different projects in a fast-paced environment
Maintain a clean, efficient and safe working environment