Clay Modeller (m/f/d)

Clay Modeller (m/f/d)

at the Kia Europe Design Center in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Your Mission:

The Clay Modeller is responsible for building physical scale and full-size clay models that bring design concepts to life. Working under guidance from senior modellers and the Studio Modelling Manager, this role focuses on the hands-on execution of sculpting, milling, hard part assembly, and surface finishing. The Clay Modeller supports various stages of the design process, contributing to high-quality model construction and enabling productive collaboration between designers, engineers, and CAS teams.

About us:

At Kia Design, we're not just a team – we're a community of visionary thinkers, creative doers, and passionate designers who thrive on pushing the boundaries of innovation.

If you revel in the art of envisioning the future and have a keen eye for aesthetics that resonate with the times to come, then you belong with us. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where you can unleash your imagination, experiment fearlessly, and craft designs that not only stand the test of time but set new standards.

Your Responsibilities:

Model Making

• Shape and refine physical clay models based on design sketches, digital data, or verbal input.

• Prepare clay understructures using foam, wood, or steel frames.

• Assemble model bases and substructures using tools and shop equipment.

• Assist with integration of hard parts and surface treatments to match design intent.

• Participate in full model or detail model production for both interior and exterior projects.

• Support the clay application process and final surface shaping based on feedback.

Milling and Data Support

• Set up models on X-Y-Z plates for milling under guidance from senior staff.

• Prepare models for milling or scanning in collaboration with CAS and engineering teams.

• Assist in handling ALIAS/CAD data for milling support; familiarity with Catia or similar CAM tools is a plus.

• Maintain a clean and organized workstation, ensuring tools and equipment are used safely and efficiently.

• Work collaboratively with fellow clay modellers, designers, and engineers to meet project expectations and timelines.

• Support workshop safety practices, clean-up procedures, and documentation routines.

• Share insights during team check-ins or technical reviews.

Studio Contribution

Participate in internal prototype builds, surface review sessions, and process improvement workshops.

Key Qualifications:

• University Degree in Transportation Design, Industrial Design, Visual Design, or a related field.

• 4-6 years of relevant hands-on experience in physical model making, preferably in an automotive or industrial design studio.

• Familiarity with studio equipment, hand tools, and the clay modelling process.

• Prior experience supporting clay model builds for design development or concept reviews is a plus.

• Competence in clay sculpting, under structure preparation, and basic surface finishing techniques.

• Basic understanding of CAD model handling and milling setup.

• Experience with workshop tools (., cutting, sanding, shaping) and safety protocols.

• Ability to follow direction, work under supervision, and contribute to high-quality deliverables.

• Organized, detail-oriented, and proactive in daily studio operations.

• Good communication skills and willingness to collaborate across departments.

• Fluent in English (written and spoken); Korean or German is a plus.

• Occasional business travel required

Please keep in mind that we will store the data for the next six months to comply with the GDPR laws.