Modelling Studio Manager (m/f/d)

at  Kia Europe GmbH

ABOUT US:

Our Design Team has consistently been at the forefront of innovation, pioneering the integration of cutting-edge technology into the design processes. We don’t just keep up with the latest trends; we lead them. With access to the most groundbreaking technologies that have yet to hit the market, we’re enabling us to elevate our design to unprecedented heights.
Are ready to join us on this exhilarating journey into developing the mobility of the future?

KEY QUALIFICATIONS:

• University Degree in Automotive/Transport/Design/Product Design or equivalent technical or vocational experience
• Minimum of 10+ years of relevant work experience in Design Development (e.g., running a model shop, show car builder experience, etc) and minimum of 5+ years of leadership experience
• Proficient in both written and spoken English, displaying excellent communication skills and responsiveness
• Excellent project management and coordination skills, able to lead projects from conceptual phase to execution (i.e., from package to painted model with hard parts)
• Capable of generating own ideas for projects and processes
• Strong collaboration skills, confident in interacting with executives, positive thinking, flexibility and the ability to adapt in a multicultural and quick developing environment
• Able to lead and guide team members by motivating, inspiring and challenging to thrive and develop high quality outcomes.
• Excellent skills in CAM (i.e., Catia software), decent computer skills with MS office / Outlook, basic knowledge of ALIAS
• Solid knowledge of model making techniques (milling and preparation; fast process)
• Expert knowledge of Model making techniques, tools, materials, and equipment
• Solid knowledge of Design development process in the automotive industry

Lead and organize a team of clay modelers to sculpt interior and exterior models in collaboration with Designers, Managers, and Chief Designer. Also oversee and organize all scanning and milling activities for clay models, manage project-related data, and ensure the smooth execution of model making and general support tasks.

Data handling and milling:

• Self-reliant organization of all milling activities for clay models; able to run several projects simultaneously
• Managing all needed model information in exchange with Design, CAS Modelling, and Engineering Teams
• Organizing all project related data for the complete milling process
• Managing manual design development based on sketches and verbal exchange
• Converting ALIAS data into milling data using CAM software (i.e., Catia)
• Oversee the setup and preparation of clay models (X- Y- Z-) on the modelling plates for milling
• Supervise the application of clay to models for off-set and final surface milling
• Milling off-set and final cut based on the generated data (full model and or details for Interior and Exterior models)
• Maintaining and organizing the technical milling equipment professionally
• Staying up to date with the latest developments in CAM, implementing new practices and tools as appropriate
• Managing capacities and timing for multiple projects
• Organizing and preparing all technical certifications for the workshop
• Briefing suppliers for quotations

Model making:

• Direct required activities in the model shop in order to produce the base for design models (scale and full size Exterior and Interior)
• Oversee the translation of 2D drawings into 3D parts / models and assembly of prepared pieces using various techniques (gluing, screwing)
• Manage the preparation of the under construction (steel, foam or wood) for later clay milling based on data etc.
• Hard part build and fitting
• Ensure proficient use of a variety of materials like wood, steel, foam, glue, screws, plastics, composites etc.
• Use all hand and air tools as well as stationary machines from the machine shop
• Have good knowledge of paint process and application for clay Models

Leadership Teamwork:

• Able to guide and judge best possible approaches and techniques for upcoming tasks in the overall design modelling process
• Be responsible for all safety and confidentiality matters
• Secure materials, documents, and relevant info for possible Audit and regular check-ups
• Being the main lead for assigning projects to the responsible team members and providing the team with necessary support
• Planning timeline for all Kia models and CMF matters.
• Communicate with Designers and Chief Designer to assure modelling needs and expectations are met
• Consult with Engineering team on clay, hard, Exterior, Interior, and CMF design matters.
• Create and present technical reports