Manager, Design Studio, Bathing, Showering & Kitchens
Work Mode: Hybrid
Location: Hybrid at Kohler, WI
Opportunity
Develop and manage a world-class design team that continually sets new standards for style and function in the bathroom and kitchen (including bathtubs, shower receptors, shower doors, and kitchen sinks, etc.). While working collaboratively with the new product development team, challenge convention when it comes to process, ideas, and materials with motivation toward advancing the position of the Kohler Co. as it competes in the industry. Share in the development of business strategies, product strategies, consumer research, and human factors opportunities.
Specific Responsibilities
Lead new product development concept development, support new product strategy planning; coordinate new product development strategy with global counterparts.
Assign and manage design resources; recruit, manage, and develop design resources; participate in product category management with category business teams to deliver business results.
Lead design teams on large, complex projects; coordinate design activities with outside industrial consultants; develop relationships and contracts with vendors and design consultants.
Lead design projects from concept generation through implementation; analyze consumers’ requirements, including functional aspects of design aesthetic need and business and cost objectives.
Provide design and technical guidance to team and junior Industrial Designers; analyze customer and competitor product offerings including product design trends in both the U.S. and in foreign market.
Design innovative products to ensure functional aspects are consistent along with aesthetic needs and cost objectives of customers.
Prepare sketches, detailed drawings and design intent documentation; modify and refine designs using working models.
Utilize experience in product design and user experience design processes to improve interactions between end-users and company products/services and to analyze consumer requirements for new product development.
Review product samples for aesthetic approval.
Application of human factors and ergonomics to develop products that are safe and reliable for use; graphic design, visual presentation, Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office software to create visual material in order to present ideas, concepts and research results; manufacturing design processing, including 3D printed models, CAD generation, file export, and 3D printing for injection molded plastics, ceramic and metal casting; 3D CAD modeling (such as Rhino, Solidworks, Alias or Creo); and, computer rendering to generate photo realistic concepts using software (such as Keyshot).
Skills/Requirements
Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design from an accredited university or other appropriate field i.e. Graphics, Ceramics, Furniture.
Relevant Continuing Education; Masters in ID, Project Management, or Business ideal.
Must have previous experience proactively teaching/coaching less experienced designers in quality techniques and tools of design.
Must have experience working in kitchen and bath industry.
We will consider applicants requiring sponsorship for this opportunity.
The salary range for this position is $119,450 - $152,650. The specific salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors including the candidate’s experience, their education, and the work location. Available benefits include medical, dental, vision & 401k.
Why Work at Kohler Co.?
Kohler Co.'s mission is to contribute to a higher level of gracious living for those who are touched by our products and services. We understand that it takes investment in our associates’ development to make that happen. So, we offer ongoing investment in each individual’s personal development and the opportunity to collaborate with others across functions and roles at Kohler.
In addition to the investment in your development, Kohler offers a benefits package including a competitive salary, health, vision, dental, 401(k) with company matching, and more!
*Important update for candidates applying to roles within Kohler Energy, including Power Systems, Engines, Home Energy, Kohler Uninterruptible Power, Clarke Energy, Curtis Instruments, and Heila Technologies.
On November 6, Kohler Co. announced the strategic decision to establish Kohler Energy as a separate, independent business with Platinum Equity as the majority investment partner. Kohler will continue to stay invested in the Energy business following the closing and remains committed to supporting the acceleration of long-term growth strategies for both organizations. Talent and operational transition plans are underway, and Kohler Co. and Platinum Equity expect the agreement to close in the first half of 2024.Thank you for your interest in joining our growing team as we embark on the next phase of growth!
About Us
Beyond the competitive benefits and compensation, Kohler proudly offers a rich history, steeped in creativity and a commitment to our associates and communities. We invite you to learn more about our culture and company at www.kohlercompany.com .
It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified personnel in all job classifications without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact [email protected] . Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.
We invite you to learn more about equal employment opportunity by reviewing the FederalEEO is the Law (https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf) and theEEO is the Law Supplement (https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf) .