Digital Designer (KTP Associate)

An exciting opportunity has become available for a graduate to work full time on a 30-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) to develop novel design and manufacturing capabilities that will enhance product innovation within the commercial furniture sector.

Employed and supported by an academic team from Manchester Metropolitan University, you will be based at JDD Furniture's premises in Manchester. JDD is a UK-based commercial furniture manufacturer with a friendly and honest approach to business and design. Since 2010, it has designed and built imaginative, practical furniture that enhances workspaces – its skilled team of makers, upholsterers and designers craft meeting pods, soft seating and bespoke solutions that bring people together. "Creative sustainable design made simple."

What you'll be doing

• Working full time on a 30-month KTP project at JDD Furniture in Manchester, developing novel design and manufacturing capabilities to enhance product innovation in the commercial furniture sector
• Using 3D design software, parametric design processes and digital workflows for 3D printing
• Applying sustainability and circular design principles – considering efficiency, longevity and recyclability – and inclusive design that meets neurodivergent needs
• Communicating complex technical information to non-experts

What we're looking for

• An honours degree (2:1 or 1st), or about to obtain one, in Textiles, Digital Design and Manufacturing, Additive Manufacturing, or a related discipline
• A secondary qualification in a related field (e.g. Product Development, Engineering) is desirable
• Knowledge of 3D design software and parametric design processes (e.g. Rhino and Grasshopper), along with digital workflows for 3D printing
• Knowledge of 3D printing technologies, e.g. Stratasys resin-based systems and Selective Laser Sintering processes
• An understanding of material behaviour and structural performance associated with different performance parameters, e.g. durability or colour
• Knowledge of sustainability and circular design principles
• An understanding of how neurodivergent needs can be met through inclusive design
• A passion for creative design and developing people-focused products
• Commitment to excellence, with independent and collaborative problem-solving skills
• Industry experience in digital design and 3D printing projects

This role requires your current right to work in the UK to be valid until the end of the contract. Due to the nature of KTP funding, this opportunity is intended for candidates who have not previously completed more than one year on a KTP; applications from candidates who have exceeded this may still be considered on a case-by-case basis.

What's on offer

• £33,000 – £35,000, dependent on experience
• Fixed-term contract of 30 months, 42.5 hours per week
• £2,000 per year to spend on personal training
• The opportunity to register on a higher degree at a reduced cost
• The opportunity of a permanent position with the company: 70% of host companies make a permanent job offer to their Associate at the end of the project

How to apply

Apply through Manchester Met's application portal by clicking "Apply Now" and submitting your CV and a covering letter detailing how you meet the criteria for the role. Only applications submitted with a covering letter will be considered. The university may close vacancies earlier than the advertised closing date, so apply as early as possible.

For an informal discussion, contact Dr Mark Beecroft at [email protected].