Product Designer for Custom Zipper Pulls

We are seeking a talented product designer to create custom zipper pulls for our outdoor gear brand. The ideal candidate will have experience in product design and a passion for outdoor gear. Responsibilities include designing unique and functional zipper pulls that align with our brand's aesthetic. The role requires creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.

This project has two phases:

Phase 1 — Design & Files

• Design a set of 5–7 unique zipper pull shapes using simple, universally recognizable 3D geometric forms (cube, sphere, cylinder, cone, pyramid, etc.)

• Shapes must be clearly distinguishable by touch alone — the point is tactile navigation, not visual decoration

• Each pull must include a standard attachment loop/bail sized to fit YKK #5 or #8 zipper sliders (or equivalent)

• Hardware aesthetic: matte finish, minimal, no decorative detailing, no shiny surfaces — consistent with a premium outdoor/carry brand

• Produce manufacturer-ready 3D CAD files for each shape (STEP or IGES format preferred; OBJ/STL acceptable for prototyping)

• Produce 2D technical drawings showing dimensions, tolerances, and attachment point specs for each shape

• Material is TBD — we expect to explore options with the manufacturer (likely zinc alloy die cast, aluminum, or engineering-grade resin). Designer should flag any material constraints that affect geometry during design

Phase 2 — Prototype Production

• Source and coordinate production of 3–5 prototype sets (one set = one of each shape)

• Prototypes do not need to be final production material — SLA/SLS resin or CNC machined samples are acceptable at this stage

• Prototypes should accurately represent the final geometry and scale

• Deliver prototypes to us in the US

What We’re Looking For

The right person for this project has done this kind of work before — small molded or cast hardware components for consumer goods, bags, outdoor gear, or accessories. You know what a manufacturer needs to actually produce a part. You can move from concept sketch to CAD to physical sample.

Required skills and experience:

• Industrial or product design background with small hardware component experience

• 3D CAD proficiency (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Rhino, or equivalent)

• Ability to produce 2D technical drawings suitable for manufacturing

• Experience with injection molding, die casting, or resin casting design constraints (draft angles, wall thickness, parting lines)

• Experience sourcing or coordinating prototype production — either in-house or through manufacturer contacts

• Portfolio showing small accessory hardware, buckles, pulls, clasps, or similar components

Nice to have:

• Experience with bag hardware specifically (zippers, buckles, loops, slides)

• Existing manufacturer relationships for small metal or resin castings

• Understanding of YKK zipper system specifications

For the zipper pulls specifically:

• Forms should be clean, geometric, minimal — the shape itself is the design

• Scale should feel intentional and grip-friendly, not tiny/precious or oversized/clunky

• Finish should be matte or satin, never high-gloss

• No branding or text on the pulls — the shape is the identifier

• The system should read as cohesive — same design language, different shapes

Deliverables:

• 3D CAD files for each shape (STEP preferred, plus STL for prototyping)

• 2D technical drawings with dimensions, tolerances, and attachment bail specs

• Material recommendation memo (1 page — what material you recommend and why, tradeoffs vs. alternatives)

• 3–5 physical prototype sets shipped to US address

• Brief notes on any geometry decisions made for manufacturing feasibility

Please include the following in your proposal:

• Portfolio examples of small hardware components, bag hardware, or similar molded/cast accessories

• Brief description of your process: how you’d approach designing for tactile differentiation

• Your recommended approach for prototype production and estimated timeline

• Fixed price quote for Phase 1 (design + files) and Phase 2 (prototypes) separately — we want to be able to scope them independently