Product Designer I

Join Rio Grande in Albuquerque as a jewelry CAD designer focused on accurate, production-ready 3D models for custom jewelry manufacturing.

Responsibilities

• Create detailed, accurate 3D jewelry models using approved CAD software.
• Design and model rings, earrings, pendants, bracelets, chains, findings, components, and custom jewelry.
• Interpret sketches, renderings, photographs, specifications, measurements, and verbal design instructions.
• Build models using correct tolerances, dimensions, wall thicknesses, and clearances to support structural integrity.
• Revise existing designs while preserving design intent and production requirements.
• Create design variations, alternate sizes, stone configurations, and customer-specific modifications.
• Optimize designs for manufacturing workflows: wax and resin printing, casting, fabrication, stone setting, assembly, finishing.
• Apply appropriate metal thicknesses, stone seats, prongs, channels, solder joints, and assembly clearances.
• Identify manufacturability risks and resolve potential issues before releasing designs to production.
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to address design challenges and improve production outcomes.
• Integrate gemstones, findings, and components in line with design specifications.
• Confirm stone requirements: dimensions, spacing, orientation, and setting needs.
• Ensure settings support the stone’s size, shape, security, and manufacturing method.
• Prepare production-ready CAD files following company standards.
• Support manufacturing with design changes and technical troubleshooting.
• Implement corrections found during prototyping, casting, fabrication, stone setting, or finishing.
• Help resolve recurring design and manufacturing issues.
• Review designs for accuracy, completeness, and manufacturability before release.
• Maintain CAD file naming conventions, revision control, and documentation standards.
• Document design changes and customer-specific requirements.
• Participate in required CAD and production audits.
• Identify opportunities to improve CAD standards, workflows, libraries, and templates.
• Develop reusable design components and standardized features.
• Participate in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, and Value Stream teams to eliminate recurring design defects and improve efficiency.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in jewelry CAD design and 3D modeling.
• Proficiency with jewelry CAD tools such as Rhino, MatrixGold, 3Design, JewelCAD, or similar platforms.
• Proficiency with 3D Printing specific to spring and grow plate layouts.
• Strong knowledge of jewelry construction and manufacturing processes.
• Understanding of gemstone shapes, dimensions, setting methods, and material properties.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and customer requirements.
• Strong computer, file management, and organizational skills.

Technologies

• Rhino
• MatrixGold
• 3Design
• JewelCAD
• 3D Printing

Preferred Qualifications

• Formal education in Jewelry Design, CAD Modeling, Engineering, Product Design, or a related field.
• Experience designing for casting, fabrication, and stone setting operations.
• Experience working in a high-volume custom manufacturing environment.
• Knowledge of precious metals, manufacturing tolerances, shrinkage factors, and finishing allowances.

Professional Competencies

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.
• Sense of ownership, accountability, and follow-through.
• Adaptability and willingness to incorporate feedback.

Schedule

• Monday through Friday: 7:00 AM–3:30 PM
• Additional overtime may be required based on demands and business needs.

Work Environment

• Onsite role in a manufacturing environment under strict security, quality, and production standards.
• Metal-free operations environment requiring adherence to company security protocols.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods for computer-based design work.
• Frequent use of a computer, keyboard, mouse, and CAD software.
• Ability to maintain visual focus on detailed jewelry designs and technical specifications.
• Occasional standing, walking, bending, and reaching within a manufacturing environment.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally.

Benefits

• Medical plan with low premium rates and no high deductible (includes dental and vision) and telemedicine.
• 401(k) matching program.
• Paid time-off benefits, plus seven paid holidays.
• Paid life insurance and optional additional life insurance.
• Long-term and short-term disability.
• Flexible spending account.
• Pet insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• On-site gym and company wellness program.
• Bereavement leave.
• Employee discounts at Rio Grande.
• Local and national discounts on various travel and entertainment.
• Competitive compensation, including an opportunity to share in the profits.