Clay Modeling Lead – Automotive / Robot Industrial Design

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Clay Modeling Lead to support an on-demand, autonomous ride-hailing company in developing the next generation of mobility products.

This is an exciting opportunity for a senior automotive clay modeler who combines exceptional hands-on craftsmanship with leadership, strong automotive design knowledge, and the ability to translate digital design intent into precise three-dimensional clay models.

You will work closely with Industrial Design, Digital Modeling, Engineering, and Prototype teams to bring future mobility concepts to life, from early design exploration through production feasibility.

What you'll do

• Lead the planning and execution of clay modeling activities across multiple vehicle design programs.
• Create, refine, and deliver full-size and scale automotive clay models with a high standard of surface quality and craftsmanship.
• Translate industrial design concepts and digital models into accurate physical clay surfaces.
• Apply your expertise in automotive proportions, Class-A surface development, vehicle architecture, and production feasibility.
• Collaborate with industrial designers, digital modelers, engineering, and prototype teams to resolve design and development challenges.
• Prepare presentation models and design bucks for leadership, executive, and cross-functional design reviews.
• Improve clay modeling processes, tooling, fabrication techniques, and workflows to enhance model quality and efficiency.
• Support studio operations, including equipment, materials, vendors, budgets, staffing, and resource planning.
• Lead and mentor clay modeling team members while maintaining high standards of quality, precision, and craftsmanship.

What we're looking for

• 10+ years of hands-on automotive clay modeling experience within automotive design studios.
• Proven experience leading clay model development from early concept through production feasibility.
• Strong experience creating and refining full-size and scale vehicle clay models using traditional hand modeling techniques.
• Expert understanding of automotive proportions, surface development, vehicle architecture, and production feasibility.
• Strong knowledge of clay modeling equipment, studio fabrication processes, milling workflows, and digital-to-physical model development.
• Experience supporting both concept vehicle and production vehicle programs.
• Strong leadership, communication, organization, and project management skills.
• A passion for automotive design, craftsmanship, and developing high-quality physical models.