Industrial/ Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Industrial/Product Designer Company: Kiwibot Location: Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Product Design / Industrial Design Date Posted: August 19, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the conceptualization and development of next-generation robotics through expert industrial and product design.
• Translate advanced technological concepts into functional, aesthetically pleasing, and scalable physical products.
• Lead user research and field testing initiatives to gather critical insights that inform design iterations and product strategy.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware, AI, robotics, and business development, to ensure design alignment and successful product launches.
• Contribute to the company's global design language and deepen user interactions across various robotic platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the primary focus is on Industrial/Product Design, the role's involvement with robotics, AI, and last-mile delivery places it within a niche of product development that requires a strong understanding of user experience in complex, physical environments. The emphasis on "designing the next generation of robotics" suggests a forward-thinking approach to product innovation and a need for designers who can anticipate future trends and user needs in automated systems.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive user research and field testing, meticulously documenting findings to guide design decisions and product enhancements.
• Design innovative physical and interactive product solutions that are user-centered and align with the company's established visual and functional design guidelines.
• Independently tackle complex design challenges while fostering strong collaborative relationships with multidisciplinary engineering, AI, and business teams.
• Accelerate prototyping workflows, including hands-on exploration of Color, Material & Finish (CMF) strategies and rapid iteration cycles.
• Provide essential mechanical design support for both functional and conceptual prototypes, ensuring feasibility and performance.
• Offer cross-functional design support to emerging business units and new deployment formats, adapting solutions to diverse operational needs.
• Contribute valuable technical and manufacturing insights to influence and guide design decisions, ensuring manufacturability and cost-effectiveness.
• Actively participate in product validation sessions, user testing, and continuous product improvement loops to refine user experience and product efficacy.
• Attend and actively contribute to meetings with both internal stakeholders and external partners, effectively communicating design intent and progress.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability by working in diverse environments and locations as project requirements evolve.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of traditional industrial design tasks (user research, CMF, mechanical support) with a strong emphasis on the unique demands of robotics development, including human-robot interaction, field testing in varied environments, and cross-functional collaboration with technical teams like AI and Hardware. This indicates a need for a designer who is not only creative but also pragmatic and technically adept.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Product Engineering, Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related design or engineering discipline.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of professional experience in physical product design and mechanical design, with a preference for candidates who have worked with technology or electronics products.
• Proven experience in conducting user research and field testing, translating insights into actionable design improvements.
• Demonstrated ability to manage design projects from concept through to prototyping and validation.
• Experience with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles and integrating them into the design process.

Required Skills:

• Intermediate to advanced English proficiency for effective communication with international teams and stakeholders.
• Strong aesthetic sensibility, a keen eye for detail, and a solid design intuition for creating compelling product forms.
• Proficiency in 2D sketching and digital painting techniques for concept ideation and visualization.
• Solid understanding of materials, manufacturing processes (e.g., injection molding, CNC machining, 3D printing), and their implications on design.
• Knowledge of human-robot interaction (HRI) principles and how to design for intuitive and effective user experiences with robots.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams, contributing to a shared product vision.
• Proactive problem-solving skills and the capacity to work independently while managing multiple design tasks.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for visual design and presentation.
• Expertise in 3D CAD software such as Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or similar for detailed modeling and mechanical design.
• Experience with 3D modeling and rendering software like Blender for advanced visualization and animation.
• Familiarity with digital sketching tools such as Procreate or Wacom tablets for rapid concept development.
• Prior exposure to robotics, autonomous systems, or last-mile delivery technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for B1 U.S. Business Visa and travel flexibility suggests that this role may involve regular interaction with U.S.-based teams or clients, and potentially requires travel to the U.S. for project collaboration or business development. The specific software listed (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Blender, Procreate, Adobe Suite) indicates a need for proficiency in industry-standard design and modeling tools for both conceptualization and detailed engineering.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 diverse product design projects, with a strong emphasis on robotics, electronics, or complex mechanical products.
• Detailed case studies for each project, clearly outlining the design process from problem identification to final solution, including user research, concept development, iteration, and prototyping.
• Visual documentation of design evolution, including sketches, CAD models, renderings, and photographic evidence of physical prototypes.
• Demonstrations of how user feedback and field testing were integrated into design refinements to improve functionality and user experience.
• Evidence of understanding and application of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles, showcasing how designs were optimized for production.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of user research methodologies employed, including interview guides, observation protocols, and synthesis of findings.
• Documentation of prototyping workflows, including materials used, techniques applied (e.g., 3D printing, CNC), and iteration strategies.
• Case studies illustrating the Color, Material, and Finish (CMF) exploration process and its impact on product aesthetics and user perception.
• Process maps or workflow diagrams showing how designs were reviewed and validated by cross-functional teams (e.g., engineering, business).

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role involving robotics and physical product development, a portfolio should strongly emphasize the tangible aspects of design. This includes detailed process documentation for physical prototyping, material selection rationale, and clear evidence of how mechanical constraints and manufacturing feasibility were addressed. The ability to showcase the journey from initial concept to a functional prototype is critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Industrial/Product Designers with 2-5 years of experience in Medellín, Colombia, the estimated salary range is COP $3,500,000 to COP $6,000,000 per month. This estimate considers the cost of living in Medellín, the tech startup environment, and the specialized skills required for robotics design.

Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation Package: Offering a salary commensurate with experience and market rates.
• In-House Training: Opportunities for structured learning and skill development within the company.
• On-The-Job Learning: Practical experience gained through direct involvement in high-impact projects.
• Personalized Training: Tailored development plans designed to foster professional growth and career advancement.
• Opportunity to join a fast-growing startup and shape the future of robotic last-mile delivery.
• Exposure to cutting-edge technology and innovation in the robotics sector.
• Potential for career advancement within a rapidly scaling organization.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, consistent with full-time employment standards. Flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines, user testing schedules, or travel requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on Colombian market data for similar roles and experience levels. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's qualifications, interview performance, and the company's specific compensation structure. The benefits listed emphasize professional development, which is a strong selling point for ambitious designers looking to grow their careers.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Robotics, Last-Mile Delivery, Technology Startups Company Size: While specific numbers are not provided, Kiwibot is described as a "fast-growing startup" and one of the "top tech startups in Latin America," suggesting a dynamic and agile environment, likely with a team size ranging from 50-200 employees. This size typically fosters close collaboration and direct impact. Founded: Kiwibot was founded with the mission to revolutionize last-mile delivery through autonomous robotics. This foundation in innovation and disruption shapes its culture.

Team Structure:

• The Global Design & Product Innovation team is central to Kiwibot's product development.
• The Industrial/Product Designer will report into a design lead or manager within this team.
• Collaboration is expected with Hardware & Manufacturing (HW&M), AI & Robotics, CEO, and Business Development teams, indicating a highly cross-functional and integrated product development process.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is implicit, with user research and field testing being core to informing design.
• Agile and iterative development processes are likely employed, given the startup environment and the nature of robotics development.
• A strong focus on user-centered design principles guides the creation of functional and intuitive robotic solutions.

Company Website: http://robot.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: As a "fast-growing startup" operating in the competitive robotics and last-mile delivery space, Kiwibot likely fosters a culture of innovation, speed, and adaptability. The emphasis on global operations (Colombia, U.S., Asia) suggests a diverse and potentially international team dynamic, requiring strong communication and collaboration skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Level Industrial/Product Designer, indicating a need for foundational experience and the ability to contribute independently while also learning from senior team members. The scope involves shaping the design language and user interaction for a new generation of robots.

Reporting Structure: The designer will likely report to a Design Manager or Head of Product Design, working closely with project leads and engineering managers across various departments. This structure facilitates direct contribution to product strategy and execution.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the user experience and marketability of Kiwibot's robotic products. By translating complex technology into user-friendly and aesthetically appealing designs, the designer influences customer adoption, operational efficiency, and brand perception. Success in this role directly contributes to the company's growth and leadership in the autonomous delivery sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in robotics design, human-robot interaction, advanced prototyping techniques, and CMF exploration.
• Industry Specialization: Become a subject matter expert in the rapidly evolving field of autonomous systems and last-mile delivery robotics.
• Leadership Potential: Opportunity to grow into a Senior Designer or Design Lead role, managing projects, mentoring junior designers, and influencing product strategy.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain valuable experience working with AI, software development, and business teams, broadening understanding of the product lifecycle.
• Global Exposure: Participate in projects that span multiple international markets (U.S., Asia), offering a global perspective on product design and market needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "establishing the company’s leadership in the robotic last-mile delivery industry" suggests that individuals who excel in this role will have significant opportunities for growth and influence as the company scales. The commitment to personalized training and on-the-job learning further supports career progression within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is explicitly "In person" in Medellín, Colombia, suggesting a physical office environment. This typically implies a collaborative workspace designed to foster team interaction and creative problem-solving.

Office Location(s):

• The primary office location is in Medellín, Colombia, at Cl. 8 #43a-49, postal code 050022. This location is within a region known for its growing tech and innovation scene.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace where designers, engineers, and product managers work closely together, sharing ideas and feedback in real-time.
• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Suite, Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Blender, Procreate), prototyping equipment (e.g., 3D printers), and potentially lab space for testing physical products.
• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for brainstorming sessions, design reviews, and cross-functional project meetings, promoting a strong sense of team cohesion and shared purpose.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time working hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected. However, the nature of startup environments and hardware development may occasionally require flexibility to meet critical project milestones or deadlines, especially when involving field testing or international collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "In person" requirement in Medellín underscores the importance of direct collaboration and hands-on work with physical prototypes, which is crucial for hardware and robotics design. The office environment is likely geared towards fostering innovation and rapid iteration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or hiring manager reviews applications and portfolios for basic qualifications and alignment with role requirements.
• Technical Interview/Portfolio Review: A deeper dive into the candidate's portfolio, focusing on design process, problem-solving skills, technical proficiency, and understanding of robotics and manufacturing. This may involve a presentation of selected projects.
• Skills-Based Assessment/Challenge: Candidates might be given a design challenge or a problem-solving exercise related to robotics design or user experience, requiring them to apply their skills and thought process.
• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders from engineering, AI, and business teams to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and ability to communicate design effectively across disciplines.
• Final Interview: Typically with senior leadership (e.g., Head of Design, CEO) to discuss overall fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Robotics & Physical Products: Prioritize projects that showcase your experience with physical products, mechanical design, and ideally, robotics or complex electromechanical systems.
• Showcase Process, Not Just Results: Clearly articulate your design journey for each project, including research, ideation, iteration, CMF exploration, and prototyping. Use visuals to tell the story.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Explain the challenges you faced and how you overcame them through design. Quantify impact where possible (e.g., improved usability, reduced manufacturing cost).
• Emphasize Collaboration: Include examples of how you collaborated with engineers, product managers, or other stakeholders, and how this collaboration influenced the design outcome.
• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates proficiency in relevant software (CAD, Adobe Suite, rendering tools) and an understanding of manufacturing processes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Kiwibot's Mission: Research Kiwibot's robots, target markets, and the challenges of last-mile delivery.
• Review Design Principles: Familiarize yourself with user-centered design, human-robot interaction, and DFM principles.
• Practice Presentation Skills: Prepare to present your portfolio concisely and effectively, articulating your design thinking and decision-making process.
• Anticipate Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss materials, manufacturing methods, and mechanical design considerations relevant to robotic products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on innovation and robotics suggests that interviewers will be looking for candidates who can demonstrate not only strong aesthetic and functional design skills but also a deep understanding of the technical and user-experience challenges specific to autonomous systems. A portfolio that clearly articulates the "why" and "how" behind design decisions, particularly in relation to user needs and technical constraints, will be highly valued.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Fusion 360, SolidWorks, or similar for detailed 3D modeling, mechanical design, and part creation.
• 2D Design & Illustration: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for sketching, concept art, UI elements, and presentation graphics.
• Digital Sketching: Procreate or equivalent tools for rapid ideation, visual exploration, and concept art.
• Rendering & Visualization: Blender or other 3D rendering software for high-fidelity product visualizations and animations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed for this design role, designers may interact with product performance data generated from field testing, which could be tracked using internal analytics tools or dashboards.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core responsibilities of an Industrial/Product Designer, but familiarity with project management or collaboration tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Slack) is beneficial for cross-functional work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific software requirements indicate a need for a designer proficient in both the conceptual and detailed engineering aspects of product development. Proficiency across these tools is essential for translating ideas into manufacturable designs and creating compelling visual presentations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A core drive to push the boundaries of robotics and last-mile delivery solutions.
• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and meeting user needs through thoughtful design.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team environment where cross-functional input is valued and integrated into the design process.
• Efficiency: Striving for optimal design solutions that are both functional and manufacturable, contributing to overall operational effectiveness.
• Adaptability: Embracing change and flexibility in a fast-paced startup environment, responding effectively to evolving project requirements and market dynamics.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work seamlessly with engineering, AI, and business teams, acting as a bridge between technical capabilities and user needs.
• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and constructive feedback exchange during design reviews and project meetings.
• Shared Ownership: Fostering a sense of collective responsibility for product success, where all team members contribute to achieving common goals.
• Proactive Engagement: Encouraging team members to actively participate in problem-solving and contribute ideas beyond their immediate scope.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's rapid growth and innovation focus suggest a culture that values proactivity, continuous learning, and a willingness to take on new challenges. Designers are likely expected to be self-starters who can contribute to a dynamic and evolving product roadmap.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Aesthetics with Functionality: Ensuring that the robots are not only visually appealing but also highly functional, robust, and reliable in diverse real-world conditions.
• Rapid Prototyping Cycles: Managing the speed and complexity of iterating on physical prototypes, especially within a startup environment with potentially limited resources.
• Cross-Disciplinary Communication: Effectively translating design intent and user needs to technical teams (AI, Hardware) and understanding their constraints.
• International Market Adaptation: Designing products that meet the varying needs and regulatory requirements of different global markets (U.S., Asia).

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Robotics Design Specialization: Gaining in-depth knowledge of robotic systems, sensors, actuators, and their integration into product design.
• Advanced Manufacturing Techniques: Exploring and applying new manufacturing processes relevant to robotics and high-volume production.
• User Experience in Autonomous Systems: Developing expertise in designing intuitive and safe interactions between humans and autonomous robots.
• Product Strategy Involvement: Contributing to the strategic direction of Kiwibot's product portfolio and future innovation roadmap.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced professionals in design, engineering, and business leadership within a growing company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of hardware and robotics development in a startup setting. Successfully navigating these challenges offers significant opportunities for professional growth and specialization in a cutting-edge industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process & Methodology: "Describe your process for taking a robotic product from initial concept to a functional prototype. How do you incorporate user feedback at each stage?" (Prepare to walk through a case study from your portfolio.)
• Problem-Solving & Innovation: "Kiwibot robots operate in diverse urban environments. How would you approach designing a robust and user-friendly charging mechanism that can handle varied weather conditions and public spaces?" (Think about user needs, materials, and potential failure points.)
• Collaboration & Communication: "How do you ensure effective collaboration between design and engineering teams, especially when there are conflicting priorities or technical constraints?" (Provide examples of cross-functional projects.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Vision: "What excites you most about Kiwibot's mission and its role in the future of last-mile delivery?" (Research Kiwibot's recent news and product developments.)
• Team Dynamics: "How do you contribute to a positive and productive team environment, especially in a fast-paced startup?" (Highlight your collaboration style and proactivity.)
• Adaptability: "Describe a time you had to adapt your design approach due to unexpected technical challenges or changing project requirements." (Showcase your flexibility and problem-solving under pressure.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentation as a narrative, clearly explaining the problem, your role, the design process, key decisions, and the outcome.
• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality visuals (sketches, renders, photos of prototypes) to illustrate your points. Ensure your CAD models are clean and well-presented.
• Focus on Impact: Quantify the impact of your design decisions whenever possible (e.g., user satisfaction improvements, efficiency gains, manufacturability).
• Address Technical Aspects: Be prepared to discuss materials, manufacturing processes, and mechanical considerations relevant to your projects, especially those involving robotics or complex hardware.
• Conciseness: Practice presenting your key projects within a defined timeframe (e.g., 10-15 minutes), allowing ample time for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not only design skills but also technical understanding, problem-solving capabilities, and cultural fit within a dynamic startup environment. Demonstrating a proactive approach and a genuine interest in robotics and autonomous systems will be key differentiators.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Industrial/Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Kiwibot careers page.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating robotics, physical product design, mechanical design, user research, and prototyping experience. Focus on case studies that showcase your process and impact.
• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your relevant experience, skills, and achievements using keywords from the job description (e.g., user research, prototyping, DFM, human-robot interaction, specific software proficiency).
• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio and prepare for technical questions related to materials, manufacturing, and design challenges in robotics. Research Kiwibot's products and mission thoroughly.
• Company Research: Understand Kiwibot's position in the market, its technology, and its growth trajectory. This will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the company's mission.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.