Digital Designer (KTP Associate)

An exciting opportunity has become available for a graduate to work full time on a 30-month Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) to develop novel design and manufacturing capabilities that will enhance product innovation within the commercial furniture sector.

Employed and supported by an academic team from Manchester Metropolitan University, you will be based at JDD Furniture's premises in Manchester.

The Company:
JDD is a UK-based commercial furniture manufacturer with a friendly and honest approach to business and design. Since 2010, they have designed and built imaginative, practical furniture that enhances workspaces. From imagination to installation and aftercare, everything is handled in-house, ensuring projects run smoothly and clients feel supported every step of the way. Their skilled team of makers, upholsterers, and designers craft meeting pods, soft seating, and bespoke solutions that bring people together. Great furniture shouldn't be complicated — it should be sustainable, functional, and built with care.

Qualifications Required:
Hold, or be about to obtain, an honours degree (2.1 or 1st) in Textiles, Digital Design and Manufacturing, Additive Manufacturing, or a related discipline. A secondary qualification in a related field (e.g. Product Development, Engineering) is desirable.

Knowledge and Skills:
- Knowledge of 3D design software and parametric design processes (e.g. Rhino & Grasshopper), along with digital workflows for 3D printing.
- Knowledge of 3D printing technologies, e.g. Stratasys resin-based systems and Selective Laser Sintering processes.
- An understanding of material behaviour and structural performance associated with different performance parameters, e.g. durability or colour.
- Knowledge of sustainability and circular design principles, considering efficiency, longevity, and recyclability.
- An understanding of how neurodivergent needs can be met through inclusive design.

Attributes:
- A passion for creative design and developing people-focused products.
- Commitment to excellence with independent and collaborative problem-solving skills.
- Able to communicate complex technical information to non-experts.

Experience:
- Industry experience in digital design and 3D printing projects.

About KTP:
For 50 years, Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) have been helping businesses innovate for growth by connecting them with academic expertise. Currently around 800 businesses, 100 knowledge bases and over 800 graduates are involved in KTPs — collaborative, transformative three-way partnerships creating positive impact and driving innovation.

Benefits:
- £2,000 per year to spend on personal training.
- Opportunity to register on a higher degree at a reduced cost.
- Opportunity of a permanent position with the company: 70% of host companies make a permanent job offer to their Associate at the end of the project.

Please note that this role requires your current right to work in the UK to be valid until the end of the contract. Due to the nature of KTP funding, this opportunity is intended for candidates who have not previously completed more than one year on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership. Applications from candidates who have exceeded this may still be considered on a case-by-case basis.