Senior Industrial Designer
Waymo is seeking a Senior Industrial Designer to join its Industrial Design Team in Mountain View, California. This team is dedicated to envisioning the future of mobility and autonomous driving technology, developing cohesive design language for the Waymo Driver to deliver exceptional customer experiences with top-tier product quality. The role follows a hybrid work schedule and reports to the Head of Industrial Design.
The Senior Industrial Designer will lead the full industrial design process from initial concept and research through to production, defining scope, strategy, and execution plans to drive innovative hardware solutions. Responsibilities include partnering closely with Product Management, Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical), UX Research, and Operations teams to translate complex user needs and technical requirements into tangible, user-centric hardware and experiences. The role also involves developing and communicating production-intent design concepts through high-fidelity processes, including 2D sketching, 3D CAD modeling, and creating both digital and physical prototypes. Additionally, the designer will collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to oversee the transition from design to manufacturing, ensuring design intent, quality, and CMF (Color, Materials, Finish) are maintained in the final product, and help define and champion the physical product and hardware strategy to align with the overall Waymo brand and user experience goals.
Candidates should have over 5 years of professional industrial design experience, specifically within automotive (OEM or Supplier) environments, and a proven history of shipping complex products from concept to mass production, demonstrating deep knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and CMF. Exceptional 2D and 3D design skills are required, with mastery of sketching, digital rendering, 3D CAD (e.g., Alias, SolidWorks, Rhino), and rapid prototyping techniques. Strong visual and verbal communication skills are essential, along with experience presenting compelling design narratives and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align on strategy. A strong portfolio demonstrating exceptional design-thinking, problem-solving, and meticulous attention to detail and craft is necessary, showcasing broad exploration and understanding of vehicle designs. A degree in Industrial Design, Transportation, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience, is also required.
The expected base salary range for this full-time position is $196,000 to $248,000 USD annually. Actual starting pay will be based on job-related factors, including exact work location, experience, relevant training and education, and skill level. Waymo employees are also eligible to participate in the company's discretionary annual bonus program, equity incentive plan, and generous benefits program, subject to eligibility requirements.
Waymo offers a range of benefits, including top-notch medical, dental, and vision insurance, mental wellness support, gym membership, and special wellness programs. Financial wellness is supported through competitive compensation, bonus opportunities, equity, and various perks and employee discounts. The company provides flexibility and time off, supporting an on-site or hybrid work model, remote working opportunities, paid time off, bereavement, sick, and parental leave. Enhanced leave options include 26 weeks of paid leave for birthing parents and 18 weeks for non-birthing parents. Waymo also offers education reimbursement, personal and professional development, mentorship, and opportunities to connect through Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and other internal groups, as well as time off to volunteer. Additional perks include access to Google offices, cafes, wellness centers, massages, and more, with at-home fitness and cooking classes available to support wellbeing at home.