Junior Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Junior Product Designer

Company: Without (by Ashaya)

Location: Pune City, Maharashtra, India

Job Type: Full time

Category: Product Design / Industrial Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-01

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Contribute to the core product design lifecycle, from research and ideation to prototyping and manufacturing support.

• Leverage cutting-edge AI tools and traditional 3D design software to explore novel product concepts and iterate on designs rapidly.

• Engage in hands-on work, including 3D modeling, prototyping, assembly, and shop floor tasks, bridging the gap between virtual concepts and physical realization.

• Be an integral part of a mission-driven startup focused on deep impact and deep technology, aiming to evolve capitalism.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is explicitly framed as an intense, hands-on internship ("Industrial Design Intern") within a demanding startup environment, not a relaxed 9-to-5. The emphasis on "messy problems," "changing the status quo," and "work your ass off" highlights a culture that values grit and dedication over comfort. The role requires a blend of digital design skills and practical, physical engagement on the shop floor.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive research for new and existing design initiatives, ensuring meticulous and structured documentation.

• Explore and develop innovative product concepts with a strong emphasis on functionality, sustainability, and forward-thinking design.

• Utilize AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, visual generation, automation workflows) to accelerate research, ideation, and design iteration processes.

• Develop detailed 3D models using industry-standard software, refine geometries, and prepare files for rapid prototyping methods like 3D printing.

• Generate high-quality renders and visuals for effective internal review, technical evaluation, and stakeholder communication.

• Actively participate in hands-on prototyping activities, including operating 3D printers, performing post-processing, assembling components, and conducting physical testing.

• Provide direct support for manufacturing runs, contributing to team coordination and ensuring smooth production processes.

• Embrace a flexible and adaptable approach, taking on diverse tasks as needed to support the core team and drive project momentum in a fast-paced startup setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on digital design and practical, hands-on execution. The explicit mention of "AI-Augmented Ideation" and "AI-tool fluency" indicates a forward-looking approach to design processes, requiring candidates to be comfortable integrating AI into their workflow. The "Everything Else" point underscores the startup mentality where all contributions are valued to keep projects moving.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience, with a strong emphasis on practical application and a proactive approach.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in core design process methodologies and user-centered thinking.

• Strong practical problem-solving abilities.

• Expertise in standard 3D design software such as SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Creo, or Rhino.

• Competence in rendering tools like KeyShot or Blender.

• Proficiency in graphic design software including Photoshop and Illustrator.

• Demonstrated comfort and capability in leveraging AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, visual generation, automation workflows) for design tasks.

• Foundational understanding of design documentation principles.

• Experience with or understanding of rapid prototyping techniques.

• High resilience and a relentless work ethic, especially in dynamic and uncertain environments.

• Flexibility to perform hands-on tasks, including assembly and shop floor activities. Preferred Skills:

• Prior internship or project experience in industrial design or product development.

• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and considerations.

• Ability to contribute to sustainability-focused design initiatives.

• Experience working in a startup environment or a fast-paced, agile setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical design skills, a proactive and resilient attitude, and a willingness to engage in hands-on, often demanding, work. The explicit requirement for "AI-tool fluency" is a critical differentiator, signaling a modern approach to design workflows. The role is framed as an "internship" but with significant responsibilities and expectations akin to a junior role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a clear understanding of the design process, from initial concept generation to final execution.

• Include examples demonstrating user-centered design thinking and practical problem-solving approaches.

• Feature projects utilizing 3D modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360) and rendering tools.

• Highlight any experience or projects involving rapid prototyping (e.g., 3D printing) and physical model creation.

• Present examples of design documentation, including sketches, CAD models, and technical specifications.

• Demonstrate proficiency with graphic design tools for visual communication and presentation. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of structured research and documentation practices within design projects.

• Examples of iterative design workflows, showcasing how concepts were refined.

• Documentation of projects that involved hands-on prototyping or shop floor engagement.

• Case studies that illustrate problem identification and solution implementation, particularly those that benefited from AI integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal "portfolio requirement," the job description implies that candidates will need to demonstrate their skills and experience through their work. The required skills and responsibilities strongly suggest that a portfolio showcasing 3D modeling, rendering, prototyping, and a grasp of the design process will be crucial for evaluation. The emphasis on hands-on work suggests a portfolio that might include physical prototypes or documentation of their creation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: An annual Cost-to-Company (CTC) between INR 5-6 lakhs.

Benefits:

• Stock Options (ESOPS) that vest over an agreed-upon tenure, offering long-term equity.

• A 3-month mutual incubation period, providing flexibility for both the candidate and the company to assess fit.

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Flexible work hours, allowing for better work-life integration.

• Unmonitored vacation policy, promoting autonomy and trust.

• Provident Fund contributions as per Indian regulations.

Working Hours: The role implies a significant time commitment beyond a standard 9-to-5, aligning with the startup's demanding culture and the "work your ass off" ethos. While specific hours aren't stated, expect a dynamic schedule that prioritizes project delivery and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of INR 5-6 lakhs per annum is competitive for a junior industrial design role or internship in Pune, India, especially considering the additional benefits. The "incubation period" is a key feature, acting as an extended trial for both parties. The mention of "unmonitored vacation" and "flexible work hours" contrasts with the overall demanding nature of the role, suggesting autonomy within a high-performance culture.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The company operates at the intersection of "deep impact and deep technology," aiming to "evolve capitalism." This suggests a focus on innovative solutions with a strong social or ethical mission, likely within advanced manufacturing, sustainable technology, or impact-driven product development.

Company Size: As a startup, Without (by Ashaya) is likely small to medium-sized, fostering a close-knit team environment where individual contributions are highly visible and impactful.

Founded: The company's founding date isn't specified, but the emphasis on the next two years being "the most important" suggests it's in a critical growth phase, aiming to scale its technology and prove its model.

Team Structure:

• The team is described as "core," implying a small, dedicated group of individuals working closely together.

• Collaboration is expected to be direct and frequent, with team members supporting each other across various tasks.

• The reporting structure is likely flat, common in startups, with direct access to leadership and a shared sense of responsibility. Methodology:

• A strong emphasis on practical, hands-on problem-solving, moving beyond virtual models to physical realization.

• Integration of AI tools into traditional design workflows for enhanced efficiency and ideation.

• A commitment to iterative development and rapid prototyping to quickly validate concepts and technologies.

• A culture that values resilience, a strong work ethic, and a proactive approach to tackling complex challenges.

Company Website: https://without.live

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deliberately portrayed as intense, challenging, and mission-driven. It's designed to attract individuals who are passionate about making a significant impact and are willing to put in extraordinary effort. The "evolve capitalism" mission suggests a unique and potentially disruptive business model.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Junior Product Designer" or "Industrial Design Intern," suitable for individuals early in their design career. It's an opportunity to gain foundational experience in a demanding, real-world product development environment.

Reporting Structure: The intern will likely report directly to a senior designer or a founding team member, receiving direct mentorship and feedback. The flat hierarchy typical of startups means close collaboration with the entire core team.

Operations Impact: While this is a design role, the impact is framed through the company's broader mission of evolving capitalism and changing the status quo. Success in this role contributes directly to proving the company's technology at scale, which is critical for its future. The hands-on nature means the intern's work will be physically manifested in prototypes and potentially production.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific 3D modeling software, rendering techniques, and AI-driven design workflows.

• Practical Application: Gain invaluable hands-on experience with manufacturing processes, prototyping, and shop floor operations.

• Startup Acumen: Develop resilience, adaptability, and a strong work ethic essential for success in fast-paced startup environments.

• Potential for Full-Time: A successful incubation period could lead to a full-time offer, providing a clear pathway for career advancement within the company.

• Industry Exposure: Contribute to a unique mission-driven company, offering experience in a niche intersection of technology, design, and social impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is less about traditional corporate ladder climbing and more about intensive skill development and proving value in a high-stakes environment. The "incubation period" serves as a critical assessment point for both the candidate's potential and the company's ability to provide a growth trajectory.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is explicitly "in-person" and requires daily commuting to Bhosari, MIDC, Pune. This suggests a dedicated workspace that likely includes design studios, potentially R&D labs, and access to manufacturing facilities or a shop floor.

Office Location(s): Bhosari, MIDC, Pune, Maharashtra, India. This industrial area is known for manufacturing and engineering firms.

Workspace Context:

• A dynamic and hands-on environment where digital design tools are complemented by physical prototyping and manufacturing processes.

• Opportunities for direct collaboration with a small, dedicated core team, fostering a sense of shared purpose and rapid communication.

• Access to necessary tools and technology, including high-end 3D design software, rendering stations, 3D printers, and potentially workshop equipment.

• A culture that encourages breaking down silos between design and production, with designers actively participating in the physical realization of their work.

Work Schedule: While "flexible work hours" are mentioned, the overall tone of the job description ("not a chill 9-to-5," "work your ass off") indicates that the work schedule will be demanding and driven by project needs and deadlines, rather than a rigid 40-hour week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by its intensity and hands-on nature. Candidates should expect a busy, collaborative space where the lines between digital design and physical production are blurred, requiring a practical and adaptable mindset.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of applications and portfolios to assess alignment with core requirements, particularly design software proficiency and educational background.

• Technical Assessment: Potentially a design challenge or portfolio review session focusing on problem-solving, design process, and technical skills in 3D modeling and rendering. Expect questions about how AI tools were integrated.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Discussions to gauge alignment with the company's demanding culture, work ethic, resilience, and mission-driven mindset. This may involve behavioral questions and scenarios related to challenging situations.

• Hands-On/Shop Floor Assessment: Depending on the candidate's profile, there might be an opportunity or expectation to demonstrate practical skills on the shop floor or discuss hands-on experience with prototyping and assembly.

• Final Interview: With core team members or founders to discuss the incubation period, expectations, and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your design process for each project, from problem definition to final solution. Highlight user-centered thinking and iterative development.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio demonstrates proficiency with required software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, KeyShot, Photoshop, etc.). Include renders, CAD models, and any 3D printing outputs.

• Document Hands-On Work: If possible, include examples or descriptions of physical prototypes you've built, assembled, or tested. Documenting the process of bringing a digital model to life is key.

• Demonstrate AI Integration: If you've used AI tools in your design process, specifically call this out with examples of how it accelerated your work or led to innovative outcomes.

• Address "Messy Problems": Be prepared to discuss how you approach and solve complex, ambiguous problems, reflecting the company's ethos.

• Express Enthusiasm for the Mission: Clearly communicate your alignment with Without (by Ashaya)'s vision of evolving capitalism and creating deep impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a design challenge that might involve quick ideation, concept sketching, or basic 3D modeling, possibly incorporating AI tools.

• Prepare to articulate your thought process and problem-solving approach under time pressure.

• Practice presenting your work concisely and effectively, focusing on impact and process.

• Research the company's mission and current projects to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, testing not only technical design skills but also the candidate's resilience, proactive nature, and alignment with the company's intense startup culture. The portfolio review will be critical, with a particular emphasis on demonstrating practical, hands-on capabilities and AI integration.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Design Software: SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Creo, Rhino (proficiency in at least one is essential).

• Rendering Tools: KeyShot or Blender for creating realistic product visualizations.

• Graphic Design Software: Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator for visual assets, presentations, and documentation.

• AI Tools: ChatGPT, visual generation tools, and automation workflow tools to augment research, ideation, and iteration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for a designer, understanding how design choices impact product performance or user engagement might involve basic analytics review. The company's mission suggests a data-driven approach to proving technology at scale. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the designer's core tasks, but awareness of how product design integrates into the broader business operations and customer journey would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on the product design and development workflow. Proficiency in industry-standard 3D modeling and rendering software is a baseline requirement, with a significant emphasis on integrating modern AI tools into the design process.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Impact-Driven: A deep commitment to solving significant global problems and evolving societal structures like capitalism.

• Technologically Advanced: A focus on leveraging "deep technology" and innovation to achieve mission goals.

• Grit & Resilience: An expectation of relentless work ethic, high resilience, and the ability to thrive amidst uncertainty and complexity.

• Proactive Ownership: Encouraging individuals to take initiative, identify problems, and drive solutions without constant direction.

• Practical Execution: Valuing hands-on work and the ability to translate digital designs into tangible prototypes and products.

Collaboration Style:

• Intense & Integrated: Close collaboration within a small core team, characterized by direct communication and shared responsibility.

• Cross-Functional: Designers are expected to work closely with engineers, manufacturing teams, and potentially business strategists, bridging traditional disciplinary gaps.

• Feedback-Oriented: A culture that likely encourages open feedback and continuous improvement, essential for rapid development in a startup.

• Mission-Aligned: Team members are united by a shared passion for the company's vision and a collective drive to achieve ambitious goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is not for everyone. It's designed to attract and retain individuals who are highly motivated by purpose, challenges, and the opportunity to make a significant impact. The emphasis on "messy problems" and "working your ass off" sets clear expectations for commitment and intensity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Ambiguity & Uncertainty: Navigating the inherent unpredictability of a startup environment, especially one focused on disruptive change.

• Intense Workload: Meeting demanding deadlines and contributing significantly in a fast-paced, high-pressure setting.

• Bridging Digital & Physical: Effectively translating complex digital designs into functional, manufacturable physical products, often requiring hands-on problem-solving.

• Rapid Iteration: Adapting quickly to feedback and design changes, requiring agility and efficient use of design tools and AI.

• Proving Technology at Scale: Contributing to the critical phase of validating and scaling the company's core technology.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-On Manufacturing Experience: Direct exposure to 3D printing, assembly, post-processing, and potentially other manufacturing techniques.

• AI Integration Mastery: Developing expertise in applying AI tools to accelerate and enhance the entire product design workflow.

• Startup Operations: Gaining practical experience in a high-growth startup environment, understanding the dynamics of rapid development and problem-solving.

• Mission-Driven Design: Contributing to a company with a unique and ambitious mission, offering a different perspective on product development's role in society.

• Mentorship: Direct guidance from experienced team members or founders, providing insights into product strategy, design execution, and startup growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are significant but directly tied to the growth opportunities. This role is an intensive learning experience designed to accelerate a designer's development through exposure to demanding real-world problems and cutting-edge tools.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to solve a complex, ambiguous problem with limited resources. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, resilience, and proactive problem-solving).

• "How do you see AI tools enhancing the industrial design process? Can you give an example of how you've used or would use AI in a design project?" (Demonstrate your understanding and practical application of AI in design).

• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio that involved significant hands-on prototyping or shop floor work. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight your ability to bridge digital and physical realms).

• "Our mission is to evolve capitalism. What does that mean to you, and how do you see product design contributing to such a mission?" (Connect your passion for design with the company's purpose). Company & Culture Questions:

• "This role is not a chill 9-to-5. How do you feel about working intensely to solve messy problems, and what motivates you to 'work your ass off'?" (Assess your understanding of and alignment with the demanding culture).

• "What are your thoughts on our company's values, such as grit, resilience, and proactive ownership?" (Show you've researched and resonate with their core principles).

• "How do you handle feedback, especially when it challenges your initial design ideas?" (Demonstrate your openness to iteration and collaboration). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to clearly showcase your design process, problem-solving skills, and technical capabilities. Lead with your strongest, most relevant projects.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the problem, your approach, the tools you used (especially AI), the challenges faced, and the final outcome or learnings. Focus on the "why" and "how."

• Highlight Hands-On Elements: If possible, include photos or videos of physical prototypes, assembly processes, or shop floor work. This directly addresses a key requirement of the role.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): Even for design projects, try to articulate the impact or potential impact of your work, whether it's user efficiency, cost savings, or sustainability.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Prepare to discuss specific design decisions, software functionalities, and your understanding of manufacturing constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a proactive mindset, strong technical design skills (especially in 3D and AI), a willingness for hands-on work, and genuine alignment with the company's challenging mission and culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this product design position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Zoho.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your degree in Industrial Design, proficiency in relevant 3D software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, etc.), experience with AI tools, and any hands-on prototyping or shop floor experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects showcasing your design process, 3D modeling skills, rendering capabilities, and ideally, examples of physical prototyping or assembly. Specifically address how you've used or would use AI in design.

• Prepare for the Intensity: Research Without (by Ashaya)'s mission and be ready to articulate your passion for their work and your commitment to a high-intensity, hands-on role. Demonstrate your resilience and proactive attitude.

• Practice Your Presentation: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio and discuss your design process, technical skills, and problem-solving approach clearly and concisely, especially highlighting any hands-on or AI-related aspects.

⚠️ 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.