Colour and Materials Designer (CMF)

About the role

Ford Motor Company of Australia is looking for a Colour and Materials Designer to drive the development of Colour, Material and Finish (CMF) solutions for advanced and production projects. The role translates visionary concepts into production-ready designs and shapes the aesthetic and tactile look of vehicles. It reports to the CMF Design Manager and is based at the Design Studio in Broadmeadows on a hybrid schedule of four days in the office.

Key responsibilities

• Create and drive innovative CMF design visions across advanced and production projects, including sensory-rich palettes and material strategies.
• Apply human-centred design principles so that colours, materials and finishes enhance comfort, interaction and perceived quality.
• Coordinate with exterior, interior and UX/UI teams to integrate CMF into a cohesive vehicle design.
• Develop forward-looking, brand-focused CMF identities for future product generations.
• Lead problem-solving on topics such as connectivity (sensors and displays), future mobility (sustainable or lightweight materials) and consumer segments.
• Bring designs to life through exceptional visualisation of material properties, surfaces and forms.
• Work with suppliers to take designs from concept to production-ready, and document CMF strategies accurately across a series walk.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant design field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 3-5 years of global automotive or transportation colour and materials design experience, including final design product execution.
• Ability to work independently with strong technical aesthetic judgment.
• Preferred: understanding of exterior/interior manufacturing and mastering processes; experience in large corporate environments and presenting to executives; collaboration with engineering partners.
• A design portfolio (PDF) is required on application.
• Applicants must be legally authorised to work in Australia.

Required skills

• Exceptional design intuition and strong visual communication through imagery and renderings.
• Good perception of colour and understanding of colour processes.
• Experience developing artistic presentations and 2D/3D digital design tools such as Photoshop, VRED and PowerPoint.

What we offer

• Flexible work arrangements and growth opportunities through internal and external training.
• Paid parental leave from day 1 and paid volunteer days.
• Wellness programs including free flu vaccinations and health checks.
• Discounted lease car options and employee resource groups.