Industrial Designer; or Associate

Overview

At KI, we believe knowing our customers helps us serve them better. We listen. We observe. We understand that each customer has unique needs. We pride ourselves on helping our customers make smart furniture decisions by offering expert advice, design options and personalized solutions. Since 1941, KI has positioned itself as a furniture company that understands the industry and provides smart solutions.

We offer solutions for business, university, educational, healthcare, and government furniture to meet clients’ ordering and fulfillment needs. We say we offer far more than furniture. We re Furnishing Knowledge.

Location: KI Corporate Office - Green Bay, WI

Department: Design & Development

We re looking for a curious, design-driven thinker who thrives on shaping products from concept through production. As an Industrial Designer at KI, you ll define the form, function, and user experience of our furniture solutions, elevating KI s design sensitivity and impact on business success. Whether you re early in your career or an experienced designer, this role offers the opportunity to influence product strategy, collaborate across disciplines, and bring meaningful ideas to life.

• Design from Concept to Production; work hands-on across the full product lifecycle — sketching, modeling, prototyping, refining, and supporting production to ensure design intent is carried through with integrity.
• Blend Creativity with Problem Solving; address form, function, human factors, and aesthetics to shape how KI products look, feel, and perform in real-world environments.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration; partner with Engineering, Marketing, Tailored Products, and Product Development to align design vision with manufacturing realities, customer needs, and business goals.
• Research-Driven Design; support research activities, explore design trends, evaluate concepts, and contribute to prototype development that informs decision-making and innovation.
• Impact on Product Integrity; stay connected through pilot runs and early production to ensure final products reflect the original design intent and meet KI s quality standards.

If you re energized by creating thoughtful, human-centered products and enjoy balancing creativity with technical rigor, you ll fit in here. We re seeking designers who are curious, collaborative, and motivated to grow, whether you re just starting out or ready to lead. This role is ideal for someone who wants to influence product direction, contribute to a culture of design excellence, and help shape KI s future product portfolio.

Preferred Education

A candidate with a Bachelor s Degree in Industrial Design, Furniture Design, Fine Arts, Architecture, or related field.

Core Skills (Necessary for All Levels)

• Strong sketching and visualization skills
• 2D & 3D modeling proficiency
• Rendering and prototyping capability
• Graphic layout and presentation skills
• Understanding of human factors and product aesthetics
• Experience or interest in office furniture design

Below is a clear breakdown of what we re looking for at each level. Candidates will be considered based on experience, skill maturity, and demonstrated capabilities.

Ideal for early-career designers building foundational skills

Salary - $70,000-$80,000/year, depending on candidate experience

• Solid foundation in rapid visualization, CAD, rendering, prototyping, and research
• Curiosity, critical thinking, and willingness to learn
• Ability to perform duties with guidance
• Potential to grow into full proficiency across all essential functions

• Receives direction from senior designers and the design manager
• Builds relationships and collaborates effectively
• Identifies problems and proposes solutions with support

For designers ready to operate independently and contribute strategically

Salary - $75,000-$85,000/year, depending on candidate experience

• Proficiency in all core skills: visualization, CAD, rendering, prototyping, documentation, research, and presentation
• Knowledge of contract furniture, design trends, and manufacturing processes
• Strong organization and project management abilities
• Desire to advance and take on broader responsibilities

• Works with moderate guidance
• Collaborates across teams with confidence
• Proactively identifies problems and drives solutions
• Contributes thoughtfully to decision-making

To be considered for this role, a portfolio must be submitted at time of application.

What KI Offers You

• Participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): stock ownership in the company.
• Competitive Health, Dental, & Vision Insurance: comprehensive coverage for your well-being.
• A 401(k) Plan with Company Match: retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Paid Vacation, Sick Days, & Holidays: time off to recharge and spend with loved ones.
• Wellness Resources: access to an…