Junior Product Designer
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Junior Product Designer Company: Richemont (Buccellati) Location: Milan, Italy Job Type: Full-time Category: Product Design / Operations (Manufacturing & Design) Date Posted: February 19, 2026 Experience Level: Junior (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
- This role focuses on the detailed 3D CAD modeling and technical documentation for the development of new luxury jewelry products.
- It involves close collaboration with Production and Quality departments to ensure product feasibility and adherence to high-quality standards.
- The position requires a strong aptitude for jewelry design, proficiency in CAD software, and an understanding of production processes within the luxury goods sector.
- This is an on-site role based in Milan, Italy, requiring full-time commitment.
📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Junior Product Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills, particularly CAD modeling and technical documentation, place this role within the broader scope of manufacturing operations and product development lifecycle management for luxury goods. The emphasis on precision, material properties, and production collaboration aligns it with operational excellence in design.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
- Execute detailed 3D CAD modeling for new product development, adapting existing models, and updating sizes and variants, ensuring accuracy and fidelity to the design concept.
- Develop and manage comprehensive technical documentation for products, including construction drawings, technical data sheets, and assembly specifications.
- Collaborate with Production and Quality departments to define tolerances, materials, and technical specifications for products, ensuring manufacturing feasibility and maintaining high-quality standards.
- Provide technical and design support throughout all product development phases, from prototyping to final production.
- Assist in the identification and resolution of technical and design issues creatively and efficiently.
- Maintain meticulous attention to detail, crucial for the luxury sector's exacting standards.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to product realization, bridging the gap between creative design and manufacturing execution. The emphasis on technical documentation and collaboration with production/quality teams underscores the operational aspects of product development within a high-end manufacturing environment.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Jewelry Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
Experience:
- A strong foundational understanding of jewelry production processes and material properties.
- Previous experience (including internships) in the jewelry sector or in a precision product design context is preferred.
Required Skills:
- Indispensable and proven proficiency in Rhino for 3D design, with experience in parametric modeling.
- High precision and exceptional attention to detail, critical for luxury product standards.
- The ability to creatively and efficiently identify and solve technical and design problems.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong understanding of jewelry manufacturing processes and material properties.
Preferred Skills:
- Knowledge of SAP, ZBrush, and Magics will be considered a significant plus.
- Familiarity with Italian "bottega" (workshop) traditions and Renaissance-era goldsmithing techniques.
- Good command of the English language is a plus.
📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Rhino with parametric modeling points to a need for efficiency and precision in design iteration, crucial for operations. The preference for SAP, ZBrush, and Magics suggests a desire for candidates who can integrate with existing enterprise systems and leverage advanced digital fabrication tools, indicating a forward-thinking operations approach.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- Showcase detailed 3D CAD models created using Rhino, demonstrating proficiency in parametric modeling and complex surfacing techniques relevant to jewelry.
- Include examples of technical drawings or documentation that accompanied design projects, illustrating the ability to translate 3D models into production-ready specifications.
- Present case studies that highlight problem-solving skills in design or production contexts, detailing the challenge, your approach, and the outcome.
- Demonstrate an understanding of material properties and manufacturing constraints through project examples, showing how design decisions were informed by production realities.
Process Documentation:
- Evidence of creating or contributing to technical specifications, construction drawings, or assembly guides for designed products.
- Examples of how design iterations were managed and documented, particularly when adapting existing models or creating variants.
📝 Enhancement Note: For a junior role, the portfolio is critical for demonstrating potential and foundational skills. The emphasis here is on showcasing the ability to translate design concepts into tangible, manufacturable products through precise CAD work and clear technical communication, which are key operational outputs in product development.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
- Given the location (Milan, Italy), experience level (Junior, 0-2 years), and industry (Luxury Goods), a competitive salary range for a Junior Product Designer in this specialized field would typically fall between €28,000 to €38,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Milan, industry benchmarks for entry-level design roles in luxury manufacturing, and the specialized skill set required (e.g., Rhino proficiency).
Benefits:
- Competitive salary and potential for annual bonuses.
- Opportunity to work with a prestigious Maison within the Richemont group, offering exposure to high-end luxury.
- Comprehensive training and development programs focused on jewelry design and CAD software.
- Access to employee discounts on Buccellati and other Richemont brand products.
- Contribution to pension schemes and social security as per Italian labor law.
- Potential for health insurance coverage or supplementary benefits depending on company policy.
Working Hours:
- Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, from Monday to Friday, with potential for some flexibility depending on project needs and company policy.
📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry standards for junior roles in Milan, Italy, specifically within the luxury manufacturing sector. It accounts for the specialized nature of jewelry design and CAD skills. Benefits are inferred based on typical offerings in large luxury groups like Richemont.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Luxury Goods (Jewelry, High Jewelry, Silversmithing) Company Size: Richemont is a global luxury group, while Buccellati operates as a distinct Maison within it. Richemont employs over 35,000 people, indicating a large corporate structure with significant resources. Buccellati itself likely has a focused team for product development. Founded: Buccellati was founded in 1919. Richemont was founded in 1988. The blend of a historic Maison with a modern luxury conglomerate shapes the operational environment.
Team Structure:
- The Junior Product Designer will likely be part of a Product Development or Design team within the Buccellati Maison.
- This team will probably include senior designers, CAD specialists, jewelry artisans, and potentially project managers.
- Close collaboration with Manufacturing, Quality Control, and potentially Marketing/Sales teams is expected.
Methodology:
- Emphasis on meticulous craftsmanship, traditional techniques (hand-engraving), and contemporary design.
- Data-driven decision-making for product development, informed by market trends and production capabilities.
- Agile and iterative processes for design and prototyping, balanced with the need for precision and quality.
Company Website: https://www.richemont.com/, https://www.buccellati.com/
📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Buccellati's heritage as a "Maison" and its integration into the larger Richemont group is key. The culture likely blends artisanal tradition with modern corporate operational standards. The operations context is heavily influenced by the demands of luxury craftsmanship.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level position (Junior) within the product design and development function, which is a critical part of the manufacturing operations for a luxury goods company. It serves as a foundational role for developing expertise in luxury product realization. Reporting Structure: The Junior Product Designer will likely report to a Senior Product Designer, Design Manager, or Head of Product Development. Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the company's ability to innovate and produce high-quality jewelry that meets market demand and upholds the brand's legacy. Efficient and precise CAD modeling and technical documentation are crucial for smooth production runs and cost-effective manufacturing.
Growth Opportunities:
- Progression to Senior Product Designer, specializing in specific jewelry categories or advanced CAD techniques.
- Opportunity to lead design aspects of smaller projects or product lines.
- Potential to transition into roles focused on Production Engineering, Technical Development, or even Product Management within the luxury sector.
- Development of skills in advanced 3D modeling software, material science, and luxury market trends.
📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path emphasizes deepening expertise in design and CAD, with potential to move into more senior or specialized operational roles within the manufacturing and product development pipeline of a luxury Maison.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: The role is based in Milan, Italy, at a Buccellati manufacturing facility or design studio. This implies an on-site work environment that blends design creativity with operational production realities. Office Location(s): Manufacture BUC - MILAN Via Brisa 5 (ITMI0074) is the specified location. Workspace Context:
- A collaborative environment where designers work alongside artisans and production specialists.
- Access to advanced CAD workstations and potentially 3D printing or prototyping facilities.
- Exposure to the materials, tools, and techniques used in high-end jewelry creation.
- A professional setting that values precision, aesthetics, and efficiency.
Work Schedule: Standard Monday to Friday work week, typical for manufacturing and design roles, with a focus on meeting project deadlines.
📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by its integration of design and manufacturing, requiring hands-on presence and interaction with the physical production process. This is typical for operations roles that require direct oversight or collaboration on the factory floor or in adjacent design studios.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess foundational CAD skills (Rhino), design aptitude, and relevant education/experience.
- Technical Assessment: A practical test or assignment, likely involving 3D modeling in Rhino based on a given brief, to evaluate technical proficiency, precision, and problem-solving skills.
- Interview(s): Discussions with the hiring manager and team members to assess cultural fit, understanding of jewelry design principles, material knowledge, and communication skills.
- Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will be expected to walk through their portfolio, explaining their design process, technical choices, and problem-solving approaches.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Focus on Rhino Proficiency: Clearly highlight projects where you used Rhino for intricate 3D modeling, parametric design, and complex surfacing relevant to jewelry.
- Showcase Technical Documentation: Include examples of technical drawings, spec sheets, or any documentation that demonstrates your ability to prepare designs for manufacturing.
- Detail Your Process: For each project, explain your thought process, design challenges, how you used CAD to overcome them, and the final outcome.
- Material and Production Awareness: Demonstrate an understanding of how material properties and production techniques influenced your design decisions.
- Highlight Problem-Solving: Select projects where you faced and successfully resolved technical or design challenges.
Challenge Preparation:
- Be prepared for a practical CAD test, likely using Rhino. Practice modeling complex shapes and ensuring high precision.
- Prepare to discuss your understanding of jewelry production processes, common materials (gold, platinum, precious stones), and their properties.
- Anticipate questions about your problem-solving approach and how you handle technical difficulties in design.
- Research Buccellati's history, design aesthetic, and craftsmanship to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.
📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical skills assessment, particularly in CAD, and the ability to translate design into manufacturable products. A strong portfolio demonstrating technical competency and an understanding of the luxury production environment is crucial.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Rhino (Mandatory): Essential for 3D modeling, parametric design, and complex surfacing. Proficiency is a must.
- CAD Workstations: High-performance computers capable of running demanding 3D design software smoothly.
Analytics & Reporting:
- While not direct analytical tools, understanding how CAD models feed into production planning and quality control systems is important. This might involve familiarity with data handover protocols.
CRM & Automation:
- SAP (Preferred): Familiarity with SAP, or similar enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, is a plus, indicating an understanding of how product data integrates into broader business operations (e.g., material procurement, production scheduling).
Other Potential Tools (Preferred):
- ZBrush: For digital sculpting and adding intricate details, especially relevant for organic shapes in jewelry.
- Magics: For optimizing and preparing 3D models for additive manufacturing (3D printing), which can be used for prototyping or direct production in some cases.
- SolidWorks/AutoCAD: While Rhino is primary, familiarity with other CAD platforms can be beneficial.
📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on specialized 3D design software. Proficiency in Rhino is non-negotiable, and knowledge of complementary tools like ZBrush and SAP indicates a candidate who can integrate into a sophisticated product development and manufacturing workflow.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Excellence in Craftsmanship: A deep respect for quality, precision, and the artisanal heritage that defines Buccellati.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in every aspect of design and production, from the smallest engraving to the final polish.
- Innovation within Tradition: Balancing time-honored techniques with contemporary design and technology to create timeless pieces.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Working effectively across departments (design, production, quality) to bring products to life.
- Passion for Luxury: A genuine appreciation for the artistry, heritage, and exclusivity of high jewelry.
Collaboration Style:
- Cross-functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with artisans and production teams, fostering a culture of shared understanding and mutual respect.
- Feedback and Iteration: An open environment for design feedback and iterative improvement, ensuring designs are both aesthetically pleasing and manufacturable.
- Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of technical skills and design insights between junior and senior members of the team.
📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of artistic passion and operational rigor. The values directly translate into the expectations for precision, collaboration, and a deep understanding of the luxury product lifecycle from concept to creation.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Balancing Tradition and Modernity: Integrating new technologies (like advanced CAD) with deeply ingrained artisanal techniques.
- Meeting High-Quality Standards: Consistently delivering designs that meet the exceptionally high aesthetic and technical standards of Buccellati and the luxury market.
- Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing complex design and manufacturing challenges inherent in creating intricate jewelry pieces.
- Learning Specialized Software: Mastering Rhino and potentially other advanced modeling tools to their fullest potential.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Specialized CAD Training: Deepening expertise in Rhino and potentially exploring ZBrush, Magics, or other relevant design and optimization software.
- Jewelry Craftsmanship Immersion: Gaining firsthand knowledge of traditional jewelry-making techniques from expert artisans.
- Material Science Education: Understanding the nuances of precious metals and gemstones and how they behave in design and production.
- Exposure to Luxury Market Trends: Learning about design aesthetics, consumer preferences, and brand positioning in the global luxury jewelry market.
📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the unique demands of luxury jewelry manufacturing, requiring a blend of technical skill, artistic sensibility, and operational problem-solving. Growth opportunities are focused on deepening specialized expertise within this niche.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- "Describe a complex 3D model you created in Rhino. What were the challenges, and how did you achieve the desired precision?" (Focus on technical detail, problem-solving, and Rhino features).
- "How do you approach translating a conceptual design sketch into a detailed, manufacturable 3D model?" (Highlight process, consideration for materials, and production feasibility).
- "What are the key differences between designing for mass production versus designing for high-end, artisanal jewelry?" (Demonstrate understanding of luxury market demands).
Company & Culture Questions:
- "What interests you specifically about Buccellati and its heritage?" (Research their history, key collections, and craftsmanship).
- "How do you ensure extreme precision and attention to detail in your work, especially under project deadlines?" (Relate to your personal work ethic and past experiences).
- "Describe a time you collaborated with a team on a design project. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the success?" (Showcase teamwork and communication skills).
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or complexity. Start with your strongest, most relevant work.
- Narrative: For each project, tell a story: the brief/problem, your design process and technical solutions (especially CAD), challenges faced, and the final outcome.
- Technical Focus: Be prepared to discuss the specific CAD techniques you used in Rhino, why you chose them, and how they contributed to the final design's manufacturability.
- Visuals: Use high-quality renderings and clear technical drawings/documentation alongside your 3D models.
- Conciseness: Be ready to present your key projects within a given timeframe.
📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating practical CAD skills, a deep understanding of the luxury jewelry production process, and a genuine appreciation for Buccellati's heritage. The portfolio is your primary tool to showcase these capabilities.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this Junior Product Designer position:
- Submit your application through the provided Richemont career portal link.
- Tailor your Resume: Emphasize your education in design or engineering, specific CAD skills (especially Rhino and parametric modeling), any relevant internships or projects in jewelry or precision design, and soft skills like attention to detail and problem-solving.
- Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your Rhino modeling skills, technical documentation capabilities, and understanding of product development for tangible goods. Ensure it's easily accessible online (e.g., PDF, personal website).
- Prepare for a Technical Test: Be ready to demonstrate your 3D modeling skills in Rhino, possibly with a timed assignment.
- Research Buccellati: Understand their brand, design philosophy, craftsmanship techniques, and recent collections to articulate your interest and cultural fit during interviews.
⚠️ 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.
Application Requirements
The ideal candidate is a recent graduate or has brief experience, possessing a strong aptitude for jewelry design and solid knowledge of CAD modeling, specifically Rhino for 3D parametric design. Essential requirements include a degree in Industrial Design, Jewelry Design, or Mechanical Engineering, along with a strong understanding of jewelry production processes and material properties.