Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Kite Designer

🎯 Role Definition

As a Kite Designer, you are the visionary and engineer behind our market-leading kitesurfing and wingfoiling equipment. This dynamic role is at the heart of our Research and Development team, responsible for translating rider feedback and aerodynamic theory into high-performance products that thrill our customers. You will drive the entire product creation process, from the first sketch and CAD model to prototyping, relentless on-water testing with our pro team, and final handover to our manufacturing partners. We're looking for an individual with a deep passion for kite sports, a strong technical background in design or engineering, and an unrelenting drive to innovate.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Junior Product Designer (Sporting Goods)
Sail Designer / Naval Architect
Industrial Designer with a passion for aerodynamics

Advancement To:

Senior Kite Designer / Lead Designer
Head of R&D (Kites & Wings)
Product Line Manager

Lateral Moves:

Product Manager (Watersports)
Hard Goods Designer (Boards, Foils, Bars)
R&D Specialist (Materials & Innovation)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Lead the end-to-end design and development of new kite and wing models, from initial concept ideation and sketches through to final production.
Create and refine highly detailed 2D and 3D models of kites, bridles, and structural components using advanced CAD software (e.g., Rhino, SolidWorks).
Conduct in-depth aerodynamic analysis and virtual simulations to optimize flight characteristics, stability, turning speed, and overall performance.
Research, select, and rigorously test innovative materials, including canopy fabrics, LE/strut materials, and composites to enhance durability and reduce weight.
Direct the creation of physical prototypes, working hands-on and collaborating closely with our in-house sample room and overseas manufacturing partners.
Organize, conduct, and document extensive on-water testing protocols in diverse wind and water conditions to validate design performance.
Collaborate directly with our international team of professional riders to gather nuanced feedback and translate their expert insights into actionable design improvements.
Analyze market trends, competitor product offerings, and consumer feedback to identify key opportunities for innovation and future product direction.
Design, calculate, and meticulously fine-tune bridle configurations to achieve the desired handling characteristics, depower range, and bar feel.
Develop and patent new design features, construction techniques, and technologies that provide a clear competitive advantage in the marketplace.
Perform structural analysis on kite frames (Leading Edge and Struts) to ensure they meet and exceed stringent safety and durability standards.
Manage the product lifecycle for assigned kite models, including yearly updates, special editions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Travel internationally to key testing locations and manufacturing facilities to oversee development, ensure quality, and build strong supplier relationships.
Present design concepts, testing data, and project milestones to internal stakeholders, including Product Management, Marketing, and Sales teams.

Secondary Functions

Create and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including spec sheets, bill of materials (BOM), and detailed construction manuals for production.
Collaborate with the graphics team to ensure the seamless integration of artwork and branding elements into the kite design for a cohesive aesthetic.
Troubleshoot and resolve any design, material, or manufacturing challenges that arise during the prototyping and mass production phases.
Perform cost analysis for new materials and construction methods to ensure designs meet target price points without compromising performance or quality.
Contribute to the long-term R&D roadmap by exploring future-forward concepts, materials, and technologies for the watersports industry.
Maintain a deep, personal, and current understanding of the sport by actively kitesurfing and engaging with the global rider community.
Assist in establishing and enforcing quality control benchmarks and inspection procedures for all finished kite products.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Advanced 3D/2D CAD Proficiency: Expert-level skills in software such as Rhino, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD for complex surface modeling and pattern making.
Aerodynamic Principles: Deep understanding of aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, and airfoil theory as they apply to flexible wings.
Technical Material Science: Strong knowledge of technical fabrics, composites, polymers, and modern textile construction and sewing techniques.
Prototyping & Fabrication: Hands-on ability to build and modify prototypes; experience with sewing machines, plotters, and fabric cutting.
Adobe Creative Suite: Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for pattern work and communicating graphic placements.
Expert Kitesurfing/Watersports Ability: Advanced personal skill level is crucial for authentic product testing and understanding rider needs.
Data Analysis: Ability to interpret performance data from testing, simulations, and user feedback to make informed design decisions.

Soft Skills

Innovative & Creative Mindset: A proven ability to generate novel ideas and translate them into tangible, high-performance products.
Meticulous Attention to Detail: Precision in everything from CAD measurements and bridle lengths to material specifications and construction quality.
Analytical Problem-Solving: A systematic approach to identifying design challenges and developing effective, data-driven solutions.
Project Management: Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple complex projects, timelines, and priorities simultaneously.
Effective Communication: Clear and concise communication skills for collaborating with a diverse, global team of riders, engineers, and marketers.
Passion & Enthusiasm: A genuine passion for kiteboarding, wingfoiling, and the broader watersports culture is non-negotiable.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's Degree in a relevant technical or design field.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Industrial Design, Mechanical Engineering, or Aerospace Engineering.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Industrial Design
Mechanical / Aerospace Engineering
Naval Architecture
Product Design

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-7+ years in a relevant product design or engineering role, preferably within the sporting goods, sail-making, or paragliding industry.

Preferred: Demonstrable experience in the full design lifecycle of a physical product, combined with a portfolio showcasing strong technical and creative abilities. A history of active participation in kitesurfing or a related wind sport is highly preferred.