Design Development Expert

As a Design Expert, you will play a crucial role in driving product innovation and enhancement by collaborating closely with artisans to prototype market-aligned bamboo products that fuse cultural craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities. Key Responsibilities: - Collaborate with local artisans to co-create innovative bamboo products suited to contemporary markets - Conduct design research to identify trends in sustainable product design and craft-based innovation - Develop product prototypes through sketching, sampling, and on-site prototyping sessions - Organize and conduct design training and capacity-building workshops for artisans - Provide design input for branding, cataloguing, and marketing materials - Document product development processes, including drawings, specifications, and feedback reports - Liaise with stakeholders to ensure product quality aligns with market and project standards Educational Qualifications: - Bachelors Degree in any one of the following disciplines: - Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Applied Arts / Sculpture / Design - B.Sc. in Fashion Design / Interior Design / Textile Design - Bachelor in Handloom and Textile Technology (BHTT) - Bachelor of Design (B.Des) from recognized institutions including NID/NIFT - Diploma in: - Bamboo and Cane Craft / Furniture Design / Handicraft Technology - Fine Arts / Visual Arts / Craft Design Preferred (not mandatory): - Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Design / Applied Arts / Product Aesthetics - Master of Design (M.Des) / PG Diploma in Craft or Sustainable Product Design Experience Requirements: - Minimum 3 years of experience in product or craft design - Prior work with rural artisans, SHGs, or traditional craft clusters - Practical involvement in prototyping and aesthetic refinement - Prior experience with bamboo, cane, or eco-materials preferred Desirable Skills: - Understanding of design thinking and product development cycles - Proficiency in sketching, visual communication, and digital or manual prototyping - Workshop facilitation and artisan training capability - Strong communication skills in English and Assamese - Empathy and cultural sensitivity towards artisan communities Job Type: Contractual / Temporary Contract length: 7 months Schedule: - Day shift Work Location: In person,