Product Designer

Lear Corporation
Full-timeBrno, Czechia

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: Lear Corporation

Location: Brno, Czechia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / Engineering

Date Posted: June 04, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

  • Drive technical leadership for assigned product development projects within the automotive sector.

  • Execute end-to-end product design, encompassing 3D modeling, technical drawings, specifications, and rigorous testing protocols.

  • Engage in direct technical communication and compelling product presentations with international automotive clientele.

  • Contribute to the development of innovative automotive components, focusing on electrical distribution systems and seating systems.

  • Leverage expertise in CAD software, particularly Catia, for precise design and documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Product Designer" in an automotive context, combined with responsibilities like "technical leadership," "product development," and "customer communication," strongly indicates a role focused on the engineering and design of physical components rather than digital products. The mention of specific automotive systems (Seating, E-systems) and tools (Catia) further solidifies this. The experience level is inferred from the typical progression for such technical roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Provide technical leadership and project management for assigned product design initiatives from concept to production.

  • Develop comprehensive product designs, including detailed 3D models, 2D drawings, technical specifications, and performance criteria.

  • Conduct and oversee product testing, validation, and analysis to ensure compliance with customer requirements and industry standards.

  • Serve as the primary technical point of contact for customers, effectively communicating design progress, solutions, and product capabilities.

  • Prepare and deliver impactful product presentations to internal stakeholders and external automotive clients.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality, and program management, to ensure seamless product integration.

  • Investigate new design approaches and potential solutions to enhance product performance and manufacturability.

  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within the R&D center.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the description emphasizing "technical leadership," "product development," and "customer communication," the responsibilities are structured to reflect a mid-level engineering design role where the individual manages their own projects and interfaces with clients. The inclusion of "investigate new design approaches" and "continuous improvement" reflects the proactive nature expected of a designer in an R&D setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in a technical field such as Mechanical Engineering, Transport Engineering, or a related discipline. Experience:

  • 2-5 years of proven experience in product development within the automotive sector.

  • Demonstrated experience in a similar product design or development engineering role. Required Skills:

  • Practical proficiency in 3D CAD software, with a strong preference for Catia.

  • Solid understanding of 2D CAD principles and application.

  • Comprehensive knowledge of mechanical engineering principles and material science, specifically concerning metals and plastics.

  • Familiarity with metal stamping processes, including shearing and bending, particularly for electrical applications.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for design challenges.

  • Excellent technical communication and presentation skills.

  • Active, daily use of the English language for professional communication.

  • Proficient in MS Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

  • Valid Group B driver's license. Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with specific materials used in the electrical industry.

  • Knowledge of simulation and analysis techniques for product validation.

  • Familiarity with product testing and validation procedures in the automotive industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are directly extracted and expanded from the "Požadujeme" section. The preference for Catia is highlighted, and the general "všeobecný přehled v oblasti strojírenství" is broken down into more specific engineering and material knowledge. The "odpovědnost, spolehlivost, proaktivní přístup" is translated into problem-solving and proactive skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies of automotive components designed and developed.

  • For each case study, clearly outline the design challenge, the proposed solution, the tools and processes used (e.g., Catia, material analysis), and the final outcome.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in creating and interpreting 3D CAD models, 2D technical drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOMs).

  • Highlight experience in product testing, validation, and problem-solving, including any challenges encountered and how they were overcome.

  • Include examples of technical documentation, specifications, and customer communication materials if available. Process Documentation:

  • Examples of how you have documented design processes, from initial concept to final design release.

  • Evidence of involvement in design reviews, validation testing procedures, and root cause analysis for design failures.

  • Documentation related to cross-functional collaboration, such as communication logs or meeting minutes with manufacturing or quality teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred based on the "Product Designer" title and the emphasis on "product development," "3D and 2D drawings," and "testing." A design engineer role typically requires a portfolio to demonstrate practical skills and project experience. The specific requirements are tailored to automotive component design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Estimated range of 30,000 - 55,000 CZK gross per month, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits:

  • 25 days of annual vacation.

  • Flexible working hours to accommodate personal needs.

  • Option for partial remote work (from home).

  • Meal allowance provided.

  • FlexiPass/Pluxee contribution of 300 CZK per month.

  • Complimentary coffee and tea available in the office.

  • Bonus awarded for successful employee referrals.

  • Corporate mobile phone tariffs for employees and their immediate family members.

  • Bonuses provided for work anniversaries and life milestones.

  • Contribution to a pension fund.

  • Multisport card for fitness and recreational activities.

  • Opportunities for language education and training.

  • MAKRO card for business purchases.

  • VIP discounts at Datart. Working Hours:

  • Standard 40-hour work week with flexible scheduling options.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated for a mid-level Product Designer in Brno, Czechia, considering cost of living and industry benchmarks for engineering roles. The benefits are directly extracted from the "Nabízíme" section. The working hours are based on the ai_working_hours field and the "Flexibilní pracovní doba" benefit.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Automotive Manufacturing (Tier 1 Supplier)

Company Size: Large Enterprise (Over 100,000 employees globally)

Founded: 1917

Company Description: Lear Corporation is a global leader in automotive seating and E-systems, supplying major automakers worldwide with solutions for over 400 vehicle models. With a vast global presence, Lear is committed to delivering high-quality products through a diverse and talented team.

Team Structure:

  • The Brno R&D center focuses on electrical distribution systems components (fuse boxes, terminals, connectors).

  • The team comprises approximately 44 employees, with a significant portion being Product Designers/Engineers.

  • Other team members include Program Managers, Sales, and Finance representatives.

  • The structure supports end-to-end product development services, from customer requirement analysis to serial production readiness. Methodology:

  • Design and development projects are managed from initial customer requirement interpretation through to detailed design, simulation, quality analysis, prototype testing, and handover to serial production.

  • Emphasis on providing comprehensive development and implementation services.

  • Collaborative approach involving various departments to ensure product success.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Company information is synthesized from the provided text and LinkedIn data. The industry context is derived from Lear's description as a "dodavatelů automobilových sedadlových systémů (Seating) a elektrických distribučních systémů (E-systems)." The team structure and methodology are inferred from the description of the Brno R&D center's functions and the overall company's product lifecycle management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Product Designer. This role is positioned for individuals with foundational experience who are ready to take on more responsibility for individual projects and customer interaction. It serves as a stepping stone to senior design engineering or specialized technical leadership roles.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will likely report to a Design Engineering Manager or Lead Engineer within the Brno R&D center. They will collaborate closely with Program Managers, other Product Designers, and interfacing with customer engineering teams.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer plays a critical role in the development of innovative and reliable automotive components. Their work directly influences product quality, manufacturability, cost-effectiveness, and ultimately, customer satisfaction. Successful design contributions are key to Lear's ability to secure and maintain business with major automotive OEMs.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Technical Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like metal stamping, material science for electrical components, or advanced CAD techniques.

  • Project Leadership: Progression to leading more complex projects, potentially involving larger teams or more critical customer accounts.

  • Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into roles in program management, quality engineering, or advanced manufacturing engineering, leveraging a strong design foundation.

  • International Exposure: Involvement in global projects may offer opportunities for international collaboration and potential assignments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis is based on the typical career trajectory for a Product Designer in a large automotive supplier like Lear. The "Operations Impact" section is tailored to how a design role contributes to the broader business goals of a manufacturing company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern R&D and Engineering Center. The Brno facility is described as an "Vývojové centrum" (Development Center), suggesting a focus on innovation, design, and engineering activities.

Office Location(s): Brno, Czechia (specifically, the postal code 63900 indicates the location within Brno).

Workspace Context:

  • The environment is likely collaborative, with shared workspaces and meeting rooms designed for engineering teams.

  • Access to advanced design tools and technology, including high-performance workstations for CAD software like Catia.

  • Opportunities for regular interaction with a dedicated team of engineers, program managers, and potentially customer representatives.

  • Proximity to prototyping facilities or testing labs would be expected within an R&D center.

Work Schedule: The role offers flexible working hours and the possibility of partial remote work, indicating a modern and adaptable work environment that balances operational needs with employee well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the Brno R&D center and the benefits like "Flexibilní pracovní doba" and "Možnost částečné práce z domova" inform the description of the work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess technical qualifications and relevant experience.

  • Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion focusing on your CAD skills (especially Catia), understanding of automotive design principles, material science, and manufacturing processes. Expect to be asked about specific projects from your portfolio.

  • Problem-Solving/Design Challenge: You may be asked to solve a hypothetical design problem or discuss your approach to a design challenge, potentially involving sketching or detailing a concept.

  • Team/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential team members and discuss your collaboration style, work ethics, and how you align with Lear's values.

  • Final Interview: Potentially with a hiring manager or senior leader to discuss overall fit and career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your strongest automotive product design projects that best showcase your skills in Catia, 3D modeling, technical drawings, and problem-solving.

  • Detail the Process: For each project, clearly explain the objective, your specific role and contributions, the design challenges encountered, the solutions you developed, and the final outcomes (e.g., improved performance, cost savings, successful validation).

  • Showcase Technical Prowess: Include high-quality renderings, 3D model screenshots, and clear 2D engineering drawings. Highlight your understanding of material properties and manufacturing constraints (e.g., metal stamping).

  • Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., weight reduction percentage, cost savings achieved, performance improvements).

  • Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to walk through your portfolio and answer detailed questions about your design decisions, technical reasoning, and problem-solving approaches.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Review Core Concepts: Refresh your knowledge of mechanical engineering fundamentals, material science (metals, plastics), automotive component design, and common manufacturing processes like stamping.

  • Practice CAD Skills: Ensure you are comfortable demonstrating your proficiency in Catia, including modeling, drafting, and potentially basic simulation aspects.

  • Think Through Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would approach common design challenges in the automotive electrical systems domain. Consider factors like space constraints, electrical conductivity, thermal management, and environmental resistance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred based on standard practices for technical hiring in the automotive industry, particularly for design engineering roles. The emphasis on portfolio and technical challenges is crucial for such positions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • 3D/2D CAD Software:

    • Catia: Essential and highly preferred for product design, modeling, and drafting. Proficiency is critical.
    • Other CAD software knowledge may be beneficial for broader understanding.
  • Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Software: Experience with systems for managing design data, revisions, and product configurations (e.g., Siemens Teamcenter, Dassault Systèmes ENOVIA) is advantageous.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • MS Office Suite: Specifically Excel for data analysis and reporting, PowerPoint for presentations.

  • Data Analysis Tools: Familiarity with tools for analyzing test results or simulation data may be helpful.

CRM & Automation:

  • PLM Systems: As mentioned above, these systems manage product data throughout its lifecycle.

  • Project Management Tools: Tools like Jira or Microsoft Project may be used for tracking project progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary tools are directly derived from the "Požadujeme" section (CAD, Catia, MS Office). PLM systems are a standard component of the technology stack for automotive design engineers.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Innovation: A drive to explore new design paths and potential solutions, as highlighted by the desire for a designer who "enjoys thinking up new paths and possibilities."

  • Technical Excellence: Commitment to high-quality design, rigorous testing, and adherence to engineering standards.

  • Customer Focus: Dedication to meeting customer requirements and effectively communicating product value.

  • Collaboration: Working effectively within a cross-functional team to achieve project goals.

  • Responsibility & Reliability: A proactive and dependable approach to project execution.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to work closely with program managers, manufacturing engineers, quality specialists, and sales representatives.

  • Customer Engagement: Regular interaction with automotive clients for technical discussions and presentations.

  • Knowledge Sharing: An environment where technical insights and best practices are shared among design engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values and collaboration styles are inferred from the company description, the role's responsibilities, and the general ethos of an R&D center in the automotive industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Complex Design Requirements: Meeting stringent technical specifications and performance targets for automotive components from global OEMs.

  • Rapid Development Cycles: Working within tight deadlines to deliver designs for evolving vehicle platforms.

  • Material and Process Optimization: Finding the most efficient and cost-effective materials and manufacturing methods (e.g., metal stamping) for complex electrical components.

  • Cross-Cultural Communication: Effectively collaborating with international customers and potentially global engineering teams.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced CAD Training: Deepening expertise in Catia or learning new modules and functionalities.

  • Material Science and Manufacturing Processes: Gaining in-depth knowledge of metals, plastics, and advanced stamping techniques relevant to electrical components.

  • Automotive Industry Standards: Understanding and applying industry-specific regulations and quality standards.

  • Project Management Skills: Developing capabilities to manage projects from initiation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are inferred based on the nature of the role, the industry, and the company's global operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a challenging automotive component you designed. What were the key technical hurdles, and how did you overcome them using your design process and tools like Catia?"

  • "How would you approach the design of a new type of connector for a high-voltage automotive application, considering factors like insulation, thermal management, and vibration resistance?"

  • "Walk me through your process for creating a technical drawing for a stamped metal part. What critical dimensions and tolerances would you include, and why?" Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What do you know about Lear Corporation and its role in the automotive industry, particularly regarding E-systems and seating?"

  • "How do you ensure effective technical communication when presenting designs to customers who may have different levels of technical understanding?"

  • "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a manufacturing or quality team to resolve a design-related issue. What was the outcome?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your innovative solution, and the tangible benefits (e.g., cost savings, performance improvement, manufacturability enhancement).

  • Demonstrate Technical Depth: Be prepared to explain your design choices, material selection rationale, and the specific CAD techniques used in Catia.

  • Showcase Problem-Solving: Highlight instances where you encountered design challenges and how you systematically approached and resolved them.

  • Structure for Clarity: Use a consistent structure for each case study (e.g., Project Goal, Your Role, Solution, Results) to make it easy for interviewers to follow.

📝 Enhancement Note: These interview questions are tailored to the specific requirements of a Product Designer role in the automotive industry, focusing on technical skills, problem-solving, and relevant industry knowledge.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the Lear Corporation careers website.

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating expertise in automotive component design, especially those involving metal stamping, electrical systems, and proficiency in Catia.

  • Resume Optimization: Ensure your CV clearly states your technical education, years of experience in automotive product development, and proficiency in relevant CAD software and engineering principles. Use keywords from the job description.

  • Interview Preparation: Practice explaining your design process, technical decisions, and problem-solving approaches using specific examples from your portfolio. Be ready to discuss your experience with Catia and automotive manufacturing.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Lear Corporation's products, market position, and recent news to demonstrate your interest and understanding of the company's operations and the automotive industry.

⚠️ 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

Requires a university degree in a technical field such as mechanical or transport engineering and experience in automotive product development. Proficiency in CAD software (ideally Catia) and knowledge of metal stamping and material engineering are essential.