Senior Physical Modeler

Kia Design Center America located in California is currently looking for a [Senior Physical Modeler] that will:

• Construct scale-size and full-size physical models
• Construct hard foam models
• Construction includes steel/aluminum armature fabrication
• CMF fabrication models
• Input and evaluate surface data for design review
• Input and evaluate engineering specifications review

Essential Duties and Responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Create physical models and develop surfaces by CNC mill and by hand for design evaluation by designers and engineers following verbal instructions, CAS data, and drawings.
• Cut, bond, and weld metals, plastics, foam and wood to create parts for armatures and clay models. Apply paint, modeling film and tape applications for clay model presentations.
• Fabricate CMF presentation models from wood, plastics, foam and metals.
• Work with outside vendors for project needs.
• Input and evaluate computerized surface data with Autodesk - Alias Studio software for engineering and modeling feasibility.
• Perform general shop maintenance, organize tools, clean shop, crate and uncrate models, and operate forklift to load and unload trucks.
• Perform administrative functions such as timecard, vacation requests, travel requests, ....etc.
• Perform additional studio projects as assigned.
• Travel up to 5% of time domestically and internationally.

Educational Requirements

• High School Diploma
• Associates degree in Industrial, Transportation Design, Sculpting(Preferred)

Related Experience Requirements (# of years, industry, etc).

• 8 Years hands on experience creating physical models for major automotive manufacturer
• 5 years' experience coordinating work with Design Managers, Senior Engineers, CMF Designers, and Chief Designer to understand design and engineering requirements
• Experience working in culturally diverse team environments

Required Skills and Knowledge

• Expert skills in sculpting and building physical models from verbal instructions, blueprints, and engineering drawings
• Proficient in using shop tools to build armatures and fabricate models - band saws, lathes, drills, grinders, etc.
• Proficient in using various materials in creating models - clay, wood, bondo, automotive paint, resins, etc.
• Some experience in Autodesk Alias software; and /or CATIA software; and/or Majics software
• Proficient skills in MS Office - Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
• Proficient time management and organization skills
• Proficient self-management skills
• Proficient oral and written communication skills

Studio Environment:

• Exposure to wood, plastics, metals, clay, foam, paints and resins
• Exposure to temperature changes indoors and outdoors
• May be required to work in awkward and unusual body positions for extended periods of time
• May be required to lift and push items up to 50 lbs
• Must be able to work safely with hand and power tools and shop machinery and equipment

What we offer:

• Zero dollar employee premiums on Medical, Dental, and Vision for you and your family
• 100% employer-paid disability and life insurance
• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick and abundant holidays
• A global environment that fosters diversity
• Competitive salaries
• Retirement savings and planning benefits
• Flexible work hours, and hybrid work schedule options
• Access to health savings accounts and flexible spending accounts

• Up to 20% travel (domestic and international)