Design Modelling Graduate Scheme

We are recruiting for a Graduate Design Modeller to join our world-class Design team located at McLaren Creative Centre in Bicester, in Oxfordshire. Based within our Design Studio, you will work across digital modelling, physical model development and studio model production, supporting the creation of concept vehicles from initial design intent through to physical realisation.

This two-year rotational graduate programme provides broad exposure to the complete design modelling process, bridging digital virtuality, physical reality and the operational requirements involved in delivering high-quality studio models.

You’ll work closely with Exterior and Interior Designers, Studio Engineers, Digital Modellers, Master Clay Modellers, Project Managers and external suppliers. Through a combination of digital and physical modelling experiences, you’ll develop an understanding of how creative design concepts are translated into accurate, buildable and presentation-ready physical models.

The programme will provide experience across three key areas:
Digital Modelling for Model Production, Manual & Physical Modelling Processes, and Model Production Project Management & Supplier Coordination.

Please note this is an onsite position.

• Milling & Prototyping Prep Data:
  Clean, join, and prepare CAD data specifically for CNC clay milling, rapid prototyping, and 3D printing. Learn how to construct parting lines and internal structural offsets.
• Armature & Structural Framework Layout:
  Assist Studio Engineers in building digital armatures, chassis packages, and internal buck frameworks that support physical clay and hard models.
• Sub-D & Poly-Modelling for Rapid Iteration:
  Utilize polygonal modeling workflows for rapid concept ideation, styling buck preparation, and the generation of components like wheels and grilles intended for immediate physical prototyping.
• Virtual Prototyping & Scale Verification:
  Prep digital data for real-time visualization reviews. Assist in setting up immersive VR/AR design evaluations to check proportions and scale before releasing data to the physical workshop.

• Clay Modelling & Sculpting:
  Work alongside master clay modelers to rough-in, balance, and fine-tune 1:1 and scale clay models. Gain expertise using specialized clay tools, slicers, and sweeps to bring lines to life.
• Milling Machine Operation:
  Support the setup and execution of CNC clay milling machines, translating digital CAD files back into raw physical shapes.
• Model Finishing & Hard-Modelling:
  Learn the artistry of surface finishing. Experience manual sanding, priming, and applying DINOC/wrap films to make clay models look like painted, road-ready vehicles.
• Rapid Prototyping Integration:
  Post-process and fit SLA/FDM 3D-printed components (e.g., grilles, light signatures, mirrors) onto the physical studio models.

• Model Build Project Management:
  Assist Studio PMs in mapping out the end-to-end timeline for 1:1 concept car builds and clay model milestones. Monitor progress against gateway reviews and executive presentation deadlines.
• Supplier Outsource Coordination:
  Coordinate with external specialized suppliers (e.g., rapid prototyping houses, carbon fiber specialists, paint shops, and armature builders). Draft technical statements of work (SOW) and track supplier deliverables.
• Logistics & Procurement Support:
  Oversee the shipping, handling, and secure transport of confidential buck structures, prototypes, and digital assets between external vendors and the secure design studio.
• Resource & Budget Tracking:
  Gain exposure…