Sr Product Designer - Vehicles (Die-Cast & Graphics)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr Product Designer - Vehicles (Die-Cast & Graphics) Company: Mattel Location: El Segundo, California, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Product Design / Industrial Design Date Posted: 2025-09-17 Experience Level: Mid-Level

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of innovative die-cast vehicle products, drawing inspiration from both real-world automotive culture and fantasy concepts.
• Drive the creation of compelling vehicle designs through advanced 2D and 3D mediums, including Photoshop, Illustrator, CAD modeling, digital prototyping, and high-fidelity visualizations.
• Develop bold, authentic, and engaging vehicle graphics that enhance storytelling, collectability, and brand appeal.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including engineers and marketers, to ensure seamless transition from concept to production.
• Actively monitor and integrate automotive trends, pop culture, motorsports, and youth culture insights to ensure designs resonate with target audiences.
• Foster innovation by experimenting with new workflows, materials, finishes, and technologies to elevate design storytelling and consumer engagement.
• Provide design leadership and mentorship to junior designers, promoting creativity and high standards of executional excellence within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on die-cast vehicle design within the toy industry, with a strong emphasis on both the physical form and the accompanying graphic treatments. The "Sr" designation implies a need for leadership and independent project ownership. The mention of "Monster Trucks" suggests a specific brand focus within the die-cast portfolio.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and design innovative die-cast vehicle products, blending real-world automotive inspiration with imaginative concepts.
• Create detailed 2D and 3D designs using industry-standard software, ensuring high-fidelity visualizations and digital prototypes.
• Develop impactful and authentic graphic designs for vehicles, aligning with brand storytelling and market appeal.
• Partner with engineering teams to ensure manufacturability and adherence to die-cast production constraints.
• Collaborate with marketing and brand teams to translate consumer insights and market trends into compelling product designs.
• Conduct research into automotive trends, motorsports, and youth culture to inform design direction and maintain relevance.
• Present design concepts and rationale to stakeholders, effectively communicating the vision and strategy behind the designs.
• Mentor and guide junior designers, offering constructive feedback and fostering a collaborative design environment.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and workflows, integrating new technologies and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on industrial design (form, function, manufacturability) and graphic design (surface decoration, branding, storytelling). The "Sr" level implies a significant contribution to strategy and a leadership element in guiding projects and junior team members.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Transportation Design, or a closely related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience:

• 3-5+ years of dedicated design experience within the automotive, toy, consumer products, or related creative industries.
• Demonstrated expertise in vehicle design, encompassing both real-world automotive aesthetics and the nuances of toy and scale model design.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in 3D design software such as Alias, Rhino, Blender, SolidWorks, or similar platforms for vehicle modeling.
• Advanced skills in visualization tools like KeyShot for creating high-fidelity renderings and digital prototypes.
• Strong command of 2D design software including Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for concept development and graphic application.
• Solid understanding of graphic design principles as applied to product surfaces, packaging, and branding.
• Proven ability to design and execute compelling vehicle graphics that enhance product appeal and storytelling.
• Experience thriving in a fast-paced, dynamic creative environment with the ability to manage shifting priorities effectively.
• Capacity to work independently, demonstrating a self-motivated, proactive, and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder engagement.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with AI-assisted design tools for concept generation, rendering, or visualization workflows.
• Experience with digital prototyping and simulation tools relevant to product development.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials specific to die-cast production.
• A strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of vehicle design projects and graphic executions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 3-5 years of experience combined with a Bachelor's degree indicates a mid-level to senior individual contributor role. The emphasis on both physical and graphic design skills is critical. Familiarity with AI tools is listed as preferred, suggesting a forward-thinking approach to design processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 distinct projects demonstrating expertise in vehicle design, from initial concept to final execution.
• Include projects that highlight the integration of graphic design elements onto vehicle surfaces, illustrating storytelling and brand application.
• Present examples of 3D modeling capabilities, including complex forms and detailed surfacing.
• Demonstrate proficiency in creating high-fidelity visualizations and digital prototypes.
• Provide case studies that detail the design process, problem-solving approaches, and the rationale behind design decisions.
• Include examples of how you’ve incorporated automotive trends or cultural insights into your designs.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your design process through visual aids, sketches, and digital renderings, clearly explaining each stage of development.
• Detail your approach to collaborating with cross-functional teams, such as engineering and marketing, to refine designs.
• Explain how you iterate on designs based on feedback and technical constraints, particularly those relevant to die-cast manufacturing.
• Showcase how you approach the integration of graphics and livery onto the 3D form for maximum impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role, as it serves as the primary evidence of design skill and process. The expectation is to see a clear demonstration of both technical proficiency in design software and creative thinking applied to vehicle aesthetics and graphics. The ability to articulate the design process and rationale is as important as the final output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a Sr. Product Designer in El Segundo, California, with 3-5 years of experience in the toy/consumer product sector, the estimated salary range is $95,000 - $125,000 annually. This range accounts for the specialized skills in vehicle design and graphics, and the senior level of the role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with company matching.
• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
• Employee discounts on Mattel products.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training and workshops.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Access to company-sponsored wellness programs and resources.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically around 40 hours.
• While core hours are expected for collaboration, there may be flexibility offered, depending on team needs and project deadlines, to accommodate design sprints or critical development phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: While Mattel does not publicly disclose specific salary ranges for every position, the provided estimate is based on typical compensation for similar roles in the Los Angeles area, considering the company's standing and the specialized nature of the position. The mention of "competitive total pay programs" suggests a compensation package that may include bonuses and other incentives beyond base salary.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Toy and Family Entertainment. Mattel is a global leader known for iconic brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, and UNO. Company Size: Large, with thousands of employees worldwide. This offers stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for diverse career paths. Founded: 1945. Mattel has a long-standing heritage in creating innovative play experiences and entertainment.

Team Structure:

• The product design team is likely part of a larger design and product development division.
• The specific vehicle design team will likely include industrial designers, graphic designers, sculptors, and potentially color and materials specialists.
• This role reports to a Design Manager or Director, overseeing the die-cast vehicle product line.
• Collaboration extends to engineering, marketing, brand management, and manufacturing teams.

Methodology:

• Mattel emphasizes a "purpose-driven" approach, focusing on empowering childhood and potential through play.
• The company culture encourages innovation, collaboration, and execution, with a focus on performance and accountability.
• Design processes likely involve a blend of traditional sketching, digital design, 3D modeling, prototyping, and consumer testing.
• A strong emphasis is placed on understanding market trends and consumer insights to drive product development.

Company Website: https://www.mattel.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Mattel's culture is built around creativity and innovation, essential for a toy company. The emphasis on "collaboration," "innovation," and "execution" suggests a dynamic environment where cross-functional teamwork and driving projects to completion are highly valued. The company's long history implies a stable but evolving workplace.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Product Designer role, indicating an individual contributor with significant design expertise and the ability to lead projects independently. It suggests a level of responsibility beyond junior roles, with expectations for mentorship and strategic input. Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a Design Manager or Director within the Vehicles or die-cast product division. The designer will collaborate with peers in design, and closely with engineers, marketers, and product managers. Operations Impact: The designer’s impact is directly tied to the success of the die-cast vehicle product lines, influencing brand perception, consumer engagement, and ultimately, revenue. Innovative designs and compelling graphics can drive sales, foster collectability, and strengthen brand loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific vehicle design niches or advanced design technologies (e.g., AI-assisted design, advanced rendering).
• Leadership: Progress to a Lead Designer or Art Director role, managing design teams and setting creative direction for product lines.
• Cross-functional Roles: Transition into product management, brand management, or even engineering liaison roles, leveraging design insights.
• Skill Development: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, take specialized courses, and learn new software and design methodologies.
• Brand Expansion: Work on a wider range of Mattel brands or contribute to new product initiatives beyond traditional die-cast vehicles.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a "Sr" role, this position offers a clear path for career advancement within Mattel's extensive organization, either through deepening design specialization, moving into leadership, or exploring adjacent functions. The company's size and diverse brand portfolio provide ample opportunities for growth and development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Mattel's headquarters in El Segundo, California, which is a corporate office environment. It is expected to be a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster creativity and innovation. Office Location(s): The primary location is 333 Continental Blvd, El Segundo, CA 90245. This is a hub for Mattel’s operations and creative teams.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be open-plan or studio-style, facilitating collaboration among design teams.
• Access to state-of-the-art design software, hardware, and potentially 3D printing or rapid prototyping facilities.
• Opportunities for regular interaction with colleagues across various departments, including engineering, marketing, and brand management.
• A creative atmosphere, likely featuring product displays, design inspiration boards, and a generally vibrant, engaging environment.

Work Schedule:

• The position is full-time, with an expectation of approximately 40 hours per week.
• While the role is on-site, Mattel's approach to flexible work suggests potential for some adaptability in daily schedules, provided project needs and team collaboration are maintained. Core hours for in-person collaboration are likely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" work arrangement is confirmed. The El Segundo headquarters is a significant corporate campus, suggesting a well-equipped and stimulating environment for creative professionals. The emphasis on flexible work implies a balance between structured office presence and personal work style.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will likely review your resume and portfolio for initial fit based on the core requirements and demonstrated skills.
• Portfolio Review & Interview: A hiring manager and potentially other senior designers will conduct a thorough review of your portfolio, discussing your process, design choices, and problem-solving approaches. This stage will also include behavioral questions assessing collaboration, innovation, and leadership potential.
• Design Challenge (Potential): You may be asked to complete a take-home design challenge or a live design exercise to assess your skills in a practical context, tailored to die-cast vehicle design and graphics.
• Cross-Functional Interview: You might meet with key stakeholders from engineering, marketing, or brand management to discuss your ability to collaborate and understand different functional perspectives.
• Final Interview: A final interview, potentially with a Director or VP, to assess overall fit, strategic thinking, and alignment with Mattel's culture and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that highlight both vehicle form and graphic design expertise.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your process, your role, the solutions you developed, and the impact or outcome. Use visuals (sketches, renders, CAD models, final product shots) to support your narrative.
• Highlight Process: Demonstrate your thought process, including research, ideation, iteration, and collaboration. Show how you arrived at your final design.
• Showcase Graphics Integration: Clearly present how graphics were applied to the vehicle form and explain the rationale behind the graphic choices.
• Technical Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss the software and tools you used and demonstrate your proficiency.
• Tailor to Mattel: If possible, include projects that show an understanding of the toy industry, automotive culture, or brands similar to Mattel's.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with Mattel's brands, particularly Hot Wheels and Monster Trucks, to understand their design language and aesthetic.
• Practice sketching and digital rendering techniques for vehicles.
• Prepare to articulate your design process and rationale clearly and concisely under pressure.
• Think about how you would approach a design brief that involves both form and graphic elements for a die-cast toy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on the portfolio as the primary evaluation tool. Candidates should be prepared to deeply discuss their design process and decision-making. The potential for a design challenge requires practical preparation in sketching and digital design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling: Alias, Rhino, Blender, SolidWorks (Proficiency in at least one is critical).
• Visualization/Rendering: KeyShot, VRED, or similar high-fidelity rendering software.
• 2D Design/Graphics: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator (Essential for concept art and graphic application).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a data-heavy role, understanding market trends and consumer feedback is crucial, often gathered through marketing and research departments.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in a design capacity, but understanding how designs integrate into product management systems might be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering software is non-negotiable for this role, alongside strong 2D graphic design skills. Familiarity with AI design tools is a plus, indicating a willingness to adopt new technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working together across disciplines (design, engineering, marketing) to achieve shared goals. Teamwork is seen as a "superpower."
• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and challenging conventional thinking to create novel products and experiences.
• Execution: A performance-driven mindset focused on delivering high-quality results and accountability.
• Purpose-Driven: A commitment to empowering childhood and development through play, which should inform design decisions.
• Creativity: Valuing diverse ideas and voices to fuel imaginative product development.

Collaboration Style:

• Mattel promotes a "partnership is our process" approach, emphasizing close collaboration and shared values.
• Expect frequent interaction and feedback loops with cross-functional teams to ensure designs are feasible, marketable, and aligned with brand strategy.
• The culture likely supports open communication and constructive critique to foster continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values directly translate to the expectations for this role: the ability to collaborate effectively, contribute innovative ideas, and execute designs with a focus on the company's purpose.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Realism and Fantasy: Designing die-cast vehicles that appeal to both automotive enthusiasts and children, often requiring a blend of authentic detail and imaginative flair.
• Technical Constraints: Working within the specific limitations and possibilities of die-cast manufacturing processes while still pushing creative boundaries.
• Trend Velocity: Keeping pace with rapidly changing automotive trends, pop culture, and youth culture to ensure designs remain relevant and exciting.
• Cross-functional Alignment: Effectively communicating design intent and managing feedback from diverse stakeholders with varying priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to master new 3D modeling, rendering, or AI-assisted design tools.
• Industry Trend Immersion: Access to resources and events that track automotive design, motorsports, and youth culture trends.
• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from senior designers and leaders within Mattel's extensive creative organization.
• Brand Exposure: Working on a diverse portfolio of brands and product lines, broadening design experience.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Contributing to the refinement of design workflows and the adoption of new technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges within a well-established creative industry. The company's commitment to innovation and employee development provides a fertile ground for continuous learning and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance technical manufacturing constraints with creative design aspirations. How did you resolve it?" (Focus on your problem-solving process and collaboration with engineering.)
• "How do you stay updated on automotive trends and youth culture? Provide an example of how you've incorporated this knowledge into a design." (Highlight your research methods and application of insights.)
• "Walk me through your design process for a vehicle you designed, from initial concept to final execution, including the graphic application." (Be prepared to detail your methodology and use your portfolio as a visual aid.)
• "How do you approach mentoring junior designers and providing constructive feedback?" (Demonstrate your leadership and team-building capabilities.)
• "What are your thoughts on the role of AI in product design, specifically for vehicle graphics?" (Showcase your awareness of emerging technologies and your perspective on their integration.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Mattel, and specifically about designing for die-cast vehicles?" (Connect your passion for vehicles and design with Mattel's mission.)
• "How do you embody Mattel's values of collaboration, innovation, and execution in your daily work?" (Provide specific examples of your behavior.)
• "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced creative environment with shifting priorities." (Showcase your adaptability and resilience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronological order. For each project, start with a brief overview, then dive into the process, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.
• Visuals: Use high-quality images and renders. Annotate your work to explain key design decisions, especially regarding form and graphics.
• Narrative: Be prepared to verbally walk through your projects, explaining your role, thought process, and the impact of your design. Practice your presentation to ensure it's engaging and concise.
• Focus: Emphasize projects that demonstrate your vehicle design and graphic application skills, as well as your ability to work within constraints and collaborate.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating your design process, showcasing your technical skills through your portfolio, demonstrating cultural fit with Mattel's values, and expressing genuine enthusiasm for the brand and the role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Sr. Product Designer position at Mattel:

• Submit your resume and a compelling portfolio through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features your strongest work in vehicle design and graphic application, tailored to showcase relevant skills for the die-cast toy industry. Prioritize projects that demonstrate your process from concept to execution.
• Resume Optimization: Craft your resume to highlight keywords such as "Vehicle Design," "3D Modeling," "Graphic Design," "Die-Cast," "Industrial Design," "Adobe Creative Suite," and "KeyShot." Quantify achievements where possible.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Mattel's brand portfolio, especially Hot Wheels and Monster Trucks, to understand their design language and market positioning. Review the company's mission and values to align your application and interview responses.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail, articulate your design process, and answer behavioral questions related to collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving. Practice presenting your work concisely and effectively.

⚠️ 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.