17 Industrial Designer jobs in South Africa

Company Description

Outdoorbengal was founded by Albert Colo, together with his cat Mia. Outdoor Bengal is redefining feline enrichment by setting the standard in adventure cat solutions and comprehensive cat training. We engineer high-performance harnesses, backpacks, and enrichment tools that honor cats' instincts, while providing cat guardians with expert guidance rooted in behavioral science. Our mission is to create healthier, happier cats through innovative products and expert advice.

Role Description

This is not an entry-level position. You will be responsible for executing the entire end-to-end product innovation pipeline with minimal oversight. From product ideation to sourcing and supplier coordination, your work will directly determine whether a product succeeds or fails in a competitive market. You will take our product strategy and independently carry it through design, material selection, prototyping, supplier vetting, and quality assurance. Every detail matters. Precision, speed, and reliability are non-negotiable. If you're not already proficient in the full lifecycle of product development and sourcing, this role is not for you.

This is a contract-based remote role for an Industrial Designer / Product Sourcing to support R&D.

Main responsibilities

• Develop and refine product concepts with attention to function, aesthetics, and user experience (both pet and human).

• Identify and select appropriate materials, components, or ingredients based on performance, cost, and sustainability.

• Research, evaluate, and compare manufacturers or suppliers to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.

• Create and manage prototypes and samples to validate design intent and manufacturability.

• Coordinate product testing and quality control to meet regulatory standards and ensure product reliability.

• Conduct and support market research to identify trends, consumer needs, and competitive products.

• Assist in finding new sourcing for existing products and materials.

• Provide support in coordinating logistics, including shipping and inventory management.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Industrial Design and Product Design
• Experience with Prototyping and Product Development
• Strong skills in Design Thinking
• Ability to work independently and remotely
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Experience or interest in pet products is a plus
• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, or a related field

If you are

• Self-starter

• Proactive and persistent

• Quick learner with a positive attitude

• Strong attention to detail

• Proficient in spoken and written English

• Previous experience with product development is MANDATORY

We offer a competitive salary

• R 127 to R 218 per hour, depending on your skill set (
  $7 to $12 per hour)

and other perks

• You will work between 4 hours per day, 5 days a week

• If we work well together, we can ramp up the amount of work to an 8-hour workday, 5 days a week.

• Flexible working hours.

• Flexible vacation policy (just let us know in advance and take the day off).

• Opportunities for advancement based on performance, fostering a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship.

To apply for the position

Begin your message with 2-3 sentences explaining why you're interested in the position and why you believe you're a suitable candidate. Do not exceed this limit, or your application will be disregarded.

Provide concise responses to the following questions, using numbered points for clarity: 1. Change the subject line to "I Want to Work for Your Cat (Insert the name of my cat) – I+D" 2. Describe any experience you have in Product Sourcing & I+D (from product conception to market launch). 3. Tell me something you loved and hated about the previous company you worked for. 4. Specify which aspect of this job aligns most with your experience. 5. Highlight any additional experience you possess that would make you an ideal candidate for this role.

Please adhere strictly to the guidelines outlined above. Applications not meeting the specified requirements will not be considered.

JOB PURPOSE:

The ideal candidate will have a passion for designing innovative, user-centric products that blend aesthetics, functionality, and manufacturability. You will be involved from concept development through to final production and collaborating with cross-functional teams.

EXPERIENCE & INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE:

· Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design or related field.

· years of experience in industrial/product design.

· Proficiency in design and visualization tools.

· Strong sketching and ideation skills.

· Excellent understanding of form, function, ergonomics, and materials.

· Good communication and presentation skills.

· Experience with prototyping and manufacturing processes within the signage industry is a plus

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION:

· Develop and visualize product concepts through sketches, 3D models, and renderings.

· Conduct user research, market analysis, and trend forecasting to inform design decisions.

· Collaborate with multiple teams to ensure feasibility, function, and manufacturability of designs.

· Create prototypes for testing and iteration using a variety of methods.

· Present design concepts and rationale to internal teams and stakeholders.

· Refine designs based on feedback and testing, ensuring alignment with brand identity and user needs.

· Maintain awareness of industry trends, materials, technologies, and sustainable practices.

· Support the development of Color, Material and Finish specifications.

Forward you CV to:

Application Deadline: 17 October 2025

We believe in the magic of diversity within teams and to achieve this, we do apply Employment Equity principles during our selection process where this is necessary to achieve such diversity. If you do not hear from us within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Disclaimer:

By submitting your CV and personal information, you agree that Stikka may utilise this information to conduct and complete our recruitment process, which entails distributing your information to all internal recruitment participants and service providers who forms part of the process.

Industrial Designer – Ceramics & Hospitality Design

Stellenbosch / Somerset West (Applicants must live within a 15km radius)

About Us

Studio Verdee is a boutique ceramics studio creating handmade, functional, and timeless pieces for chefs and the hospitality industry. We work closely with leading restaurants and hotels to design ceramics that elevate the dining experience.

The Role

We're looking for an Industrial Designer
with a strong eye for form, function, and materials. This is a
hands-on, in-studio role
that requires close collaboration with our artisans and clients. You'll take designs from concept through to final prototypes, ensuring every product is both innovative and practical for hospitality use.

Responsibilities

• Develop and design new ceramic product ranges.
• Create detailed CAD models, sketches, and technical drawings.
• Prototype and refine designs with our artisans.
• Research trends in design, material, and form.
• Collaborate with chefs and hospitality clients on custom projects.

Requirements

• Degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, or related field.
• 2+ years' experience in product/industrial design (ceramics or hospitality a plus).
• Proficiency in CAD software (Rhino, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Blender, etc.) and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating design capability.
• Practical mindset: able to balance creativity with production realities.

This role is
studio-based
. Applicants must live within
15km of Stellenbosch or Somerset West
. Applications outside this radius will not be considered.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to shape products used in world-class kitchens and hotels.
• A creative, collaborative studio environment.
• Exposure to both artisan craftsmanship and high-end hospitality.
• Competitive compensation aligned with experience.

Apply via LinkedIn or send your CV directly to

This role sits at the intersection of engineering, industrial design, and innovation, ideal for someone who wants to help shape the future of products through clear, engaging, and technically sound visuals. We are looking for a motivated new graduate with a strong eye for design and data storytelling within the R&D Technology sector.

What You'll Do:

•Translate complex engineering concepts into clear, compelling visuals, presentations, and data models

•Create high-quality materials for internal and external stakeholders using PowerPoint, Excel, and data visualization tools

•Conduct and organize technical and scientific research, with a strong focus on sourcing and evaluating peer-reviewed literature

•Collaborate with engineering and product teams to support early-stage product development

•Assist in aligning technical outputs with commercial and user-centered design goals

About You:

•Recently graduated in Industrial Design, Electronic Engineering, or Biomedical Engineering

•Skilled in PowerPoint design, data visualization, and Excel modelling

•Able to distill complex technical ideas into digestible visuals and narratives

•Curious to learn and strong research and organizational skills with keen attention to detail and source credibility

Send CV with contactable references and qualification to Head of HR
tanya-

Company Description

Outdoorbengal was founded by Albert Colo, together with his cat Mia. Outdoor Bengal is redefining feline enrichment by setting the standard in adventure cat solutions and comprehensive cat training. We engineer high-performance harnesses, backpacks, and enrichment tools that honor cats' instincts, while providing cat guardians with expert guidance rooted in behavioral science. Our mission is to create healthier, happier cats through innovative products and expert advice.

Role Description

This is not an entry-level position. You will be responsible for executing the entire end-to-end product innovation pipeline with minimal oversight. From product ideation to sourcing and supplier coordination, your work will directly determine whether a product succeeds or fails in a competitive market. You will take our product strategy and independently carry it through design, material selection, prototyping, supplier vetting, and quality assurance. Every detail matters. Precision, speed, and reliability are non-negotiable. If you're not already proficient in the full lifecycle of product development and sourcing, this role is not for you.

This is a contract-based remote role for an Industrial Designer / Product Sourcing to support R&D.

Main responsibilities

• Develop and refine product concepts with attention to function, aesthetics, and user experience (both pet and human).

• Identify and select appropriate materials, components, or ingredients based on performance, cost, and sustainability.

• Research, evaluate, and compare manufacturers or suppliers to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.

• Create and manage prototypes and samples to validate design intent and manufacturability.

• Coordinate product testing and quality control to meet regulatory standards and ensure product reliability.

• Conduct and support market research to identify trends, consumer needs, and competitive products.

• Assist in finding new sourcing for existing products and materials.

• Provide support in coordinating logistics, including shipping and inventory management.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in Industrial Design and Product Design
• Experience with Prototyping and Product Development
• Strong skills in Design Thinking
• Ability to work independently and remotely
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
• Experience or interest in pet products is a plus
• Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, or a related field

If you are

• Self-starter

• Proactive and persistent

• Quick learner with a positive attitude

• Strong attention to detail

• Proficient in spoken and written English

• Previous experience with product development is MANDATORY

We offer a competitive salary

• R 127 to R 218 per hour, depending on your skill set (
  $7 to $12 per hour)

and other perks

• You will work between 4 hours per day, 5 days a week

• If we work well together, we can ramp up the amount of work to an 8-hour workday, 5 days a week.

• Flexible working hours.

• Flexible vacation policy (just let us know in advance and take the day off).

• Opportunities for advancement based on performance, fostering a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship.

To apply for the position

Begin your message with 2-3 sentences explaining why you're interested in the position and why you believe you're a suitable candidate. Do not exceed this limit, or your application will be disregarded.

Provide concise responses to the following questions, using numbered points for clarity: 1. Change the subject line to "I Want to Work for Your Cat (Insert the name of my cat) – I+D" 2. Describe any experience you have in Product Sourcing & I+D (from product conception to market launch). 3. Tell me something you loved and hated about the previous company you worked for. 4. Specify which aspect of this job aligns most with your experience. 5. Highlight any additional experience you possess that would make you an ideal candidate for this role.

Please adhere strictly to the guidelines outlined above. Applications not meeting the specified requirements will not be considered.

As the Junior Industrial Designer you will form part of the Art Team, this role is responsible for product design and development and the resulting project management in the various business areas.

Cape Town based, Permanent

Responsibilities

• Conceptualising and planning new designs in line department requirements.
• Prioritisation of new or redeveloped products according to range review
• Design and prototyping
• Designing products.
• Technical drawing (2D and 3D). Rendering. Illustration. 3D scanning and printing.
• The above done by using Rhino3D, Illustrator, Photoshop and Procreate and other software.
• Creating prototypes of new items by means of sculpting in various media.
• Repairing, re-sculpting or re-drawing items due for upgrading or sending to a new supplier.
• Liaising with suppliers for new samples and production of the above.
• Addressing quality issues with relevant parties.
• Briefing packaging, labelling, swing tags, instruction cards, care cards, stickers, etc. to Graphics department or to the supplier.
• Admin relating to project launch.
• Creating product information: Weight, materials, dimensions, volume, components, assembly instructions, care instructions, all supplier details, all assembly details, etc.
• Creating specification sheets with the above data for internal and external use
• Supplying all product data, selling points, product attributes to copywriter
• Supplying the data capturer with sample products and all product information mentioned above as well as selling points, copy, etc., for item card details and product Bulletin.
• Product shipment quality checking and creation of shipment inspection reports
• Providing feedback to manufacturers re technical issues.
• Informing the relevant staff re the above QC feedback.
• Bespoke items project management
• Archiving

Qualifications and Experience

• Diploma or a Bachelor's degree/ Relevant Tertiary qualification in Product or Industrial Design
• Strong portfolio of work with examples of prototyping
• Proficient in 2D technical drawings and 3D models using the relevant software, Rhino3 D, Solid Works (required) and ZBrush (bonus)
• Proficient in Adobe illustrator, Photoshop and Procreate (bonus)

Job Title: Product / Industrial Designer

Location: Johannesburg

Job Type: Full-Time

Industry: Manufacturing, Interior Solutions, Shopfitting, Custom Fabrication

Start Date: As soon as possible

Salary: R R25000

About the Role

As a Product/Industrial Designer at Shopfrunt, you'll be at the intersection of creativity, strategy, and technical design. You will work on conceptualisation and developing physical products and spatial solutions that are not only beautiful and on-brand, but also feasible to manufacture and scalable in the real world.

This role demands a blend of design, strategic thinking, and technical know-how. You'll collaborate with our creative, production, and sales teams to design, prototype, and refine solutions that meet real-world constraints while delivering exceptional experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead product design from concept to manufacture
• Collaborate with design and production teams
• Create detailed CAD models, renders, and manufacturing drawings
• Ensure DFM (design for manufacturing) best practices
• Stay updated with material trends and industry innovations
• Translate concepts into detailed CAD models, manufacturing drawings, and prototypes
• Design custom furniture, signage, interiors, and branding elements aligned with Shopfrunt's standards
• Manage digital libraries and visual assets (materials, models, etc.)
• Create BOMs and liaise with procurement for material specifications
• Support production by ensuring designs are optimised for fabrication (wood, metal, plastics)

Requirements:

• Bachelor's or diploma in Industrial Design or Product Design
• 3–5 years' experience in product or industrial design (manufacturing or retail space experience preferred)
• Proficiency in SolidWorks, Rhino, or Fusion, or similar CAD tools
• Strong visualisation/rendering skills (KeyShot, 3DS Max, or similar)
• Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite and/or CorelDraw
• Understanding of manufacturing processes for wood, steel, and plastic
• Strong communication, stakeholder management, and presentation skills
• Portfolio showcasing end-to-end product development

Character Traits We're Looking for:

• Strategic Thinker
• Detail-Orientated
• Problem Solver
• Collaborative
• Energetic and Driven
• Visual Communicator

Advantageous Skills:

• Interior design, furniture design
• Strong aesthetic and functional design thinking
• Knowledge of prototyping, tooling, and production
• Team collaboration and project ownership
• Experience in retail environments, shopfitting, signage, or trade marketing
• Familiarity with workshop facilitation and customer-centric design approaches
• Able to manage multiple projects and stakeholders under tight deadlines
• Passion for sustainable materials and forward-thinking fabrication techniques

Salary & Benefits:

R R25000

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: R15 000,00 - R25 000,00 per month

Work Location: In person

Purpose of the Role

As a Junior Industrial Designer, you will support the design team in the development of new and innovative products that reflect the brand. You will assist in concept development, 3D modelling, prototyping, and preparing production-ready files for manufacturing. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your design career within a dynamic, art-focused product environment.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Product Development

• Assist in the research, concept creation, and design of new homeware and lifestyle products
• Produce high-quality 2D sketches and detailed 3D CAD models
• Support the team in developing designs from concept to final product, including prototyping and testing
• Prepare technical drawings and specifications for production
• Collaborate with in-house and external manufacturing teams to refine and finalise products
• Participate in design reviews, product presentations, and brainstorming sessions

Trend & Material Research

• Stay up to date with global design trends, materials, and technologies relevant to the homeware and lifestyle sectors
• Assist with mood boards, material sourcing, and seasonal design reports

Brand & Aesthetic Alignment

• Ensure all designs align with the design language , brand values, and quality standards
• Help maintain the integrity of the brand’s sculptural and functional art identity across product ranges

Requirements

• A relevant tertiary qualification in Industrial Design or Product Design
• 1–3 years of experience in a design role (internships included)
• Proficiency in 3D modelling software (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360)
• Strong Adobe Creative Suite skills (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• Good hand-sketching and concept visualisation skills
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials (especially metals, ceramics, resin, etc.)
• Attention to detail, creative flair, and problem-solving ability
• A strong portfolio showcasing relevant product and concept design work
• Excellent communication and time-management skills
• Passion for design and a strong interest in art-meets-function products

Company Overview:

Carrol Boyes, an industry leader in homeware products, invites talented and creative Product Developers to join our dynamic team at the Head Office in Paarden Eiland. Be a vital part of our esteemed Art Department and contribute to the development, design, buying, and project management of an extensive range of homeware categories, including cutlery, crockery, glassware, cookware, hydration, soft furnishings, bedding, furniture, lighting, and personal accessories.

Responsibilities:

• Conceptualization and Design:
  • Innovatively conceptualize and design new additions to our homeware product range.
  • Identify gaps and opportunities within the assortment and develop designs to address them.
• Prototyping and Technical Drawings:
  • Design and prototype products using technical drawings, rendering, illustration, 2D/3D scanning, and printing.
  • Utilize software such as Rhino3D, Illustrator, Photoshop, Procreate, and other design tools.
• Collaboration and Supplier Management:
  • Collaborate with suppliers for new samples and oversee production, addressing quality issues.
  • Source manufacturers, negotiate production prices, and ensure sample readiness.
• Project Management:
  • Manage project details, including packaging, labelling, instruction cards, and care cards.
  • Oversee bespoke item projects from design to market readiness.
• Production Oversight:
  • Supervise production, packaging, packing, and shipping to ensure on-time delivery.
• Organizational Duties:
  • Organize, maintain, and archive items, managing Art Department project spaces and samples.

Minimum Requirements:

• 3+ years of experience in product design, preferably in the homeware field.
• Bachelor’s degree/ Relevant Tertiary qualification in Industrial Design.
• Experience in sourcing and buying.
• Good knowledge of the industry, market trends, and various materials and production methods.
• Project management skills, overseeing the entire product lifecycle from conception to market readiness.
• Bachelor's Degree or relevant tertiary qualification in Industrial Design or a related field.
• Proficiency in CAD software, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Procreate.
• Skills in 2D technical drawings and 3D modelling using software such as 3D Studio Max and Rhino3D.
• Proficiency in Excel for trends analysis, market conditions, and data management.
• Excellent problem-solving, organizational, and time management skills.
• Aesthetic design sense with a good understanding of colour science and combinations.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with great attention to detail.
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to work independently or as part of a team.
• Demonstrates personal integrity, business ethics, and values.
• Ability to interpret and develop another designer's work while adopting and maintaining their style.

Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in CAD, Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop, Procreate for design execution.
• Moderate understanding and application of CAD software for interpretations and illustrations.
• Skills in creating 2D technical drawings and 3D models using software like 3D Studio Max and Rhino3D.
• Knowledge of 3D scanning and printing for rapid prototyping. Hands-on experience with physical sculpting in various media.
• Proficient in Excel for data analysis, including formulas, pivot tables, and data extraction/formatting.
• Advanced creative problem-solving and adaptability.
• Advanced organizational and time management skills.

Application Instructions:

Only applications with a portfolio displaying your design work will be considered. Apply now and bring your Industrial Design expertise to Carrol Boyes!