Product / Industrial Designer – Microscope Housing

Position Title: Contract Product / Industrial Designer Microscope Housing

Base Location: Delhi

Duration: 4-6 Months

Primary Role:

We are developing a microscope housing attachment as an add-on unit for a larger solution currently under development. The attachment will integrate with an existing microscope system and must feel purpose-built, precise, and professional.

We are seeking an experienced product/industrial designer to explore three distinct design concepts upfront, from which one will be selected for detailed development and prototyping.

Objectives:

• Develop three initial design options (concept-level) for a microscope housing attachment, each differing in form factor, material approach, and mounting strategy.
• Select and refine one chosen design into a fully engineered, manufacturable solution.
• Ensure the attachment integrates seamlessly with the existing microscope and surrounding system.
• Deliver production-ready design files and documentation suitable for prototyping and small-scale manufacturing.
• Support up to two potential macro-level design changes or adaptations post-selection, if required by evolving system or integration constraints.

Scope of Work:

Phase 1 Concept Development

• Create 3 design options, including:
• High-level CAD or surface models
• Visual renders
• Brief design rationale for each option (usability, aesthetics, manufacturability)

Phase 2 Detailed Design & Engineering

• Develop the selected concept into a finalised design:
• Detailed CAD models
• Assembly and fabrication drawings
• Material and finish specifications

Account for:

• Optical and mechanical alignment
• Structural stability and vibration considerations
• Ease of installation/removal
• Cable routing and access
• Thermal considerations (if electronics are involved)

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyse the existing microscope and interface requirements.
• Propose multiple design directions that balance precision engineering with clean industrial design.
• Select suitable materials and manufacturing methods (e.g., machined aluminum, sheet metal, injection-molded plastics).
• Ensure tolerances and geometry are appropriate for optical instrumentation.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders through design reviews and iterations.
• Support prototype fabrication and refinement as needed.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in product or industrial design for scientific, medical, or precision hardware.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating enclosure design, attachments, or instrument housings.
• Advanced proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Creo, or similar).
• Understanding of manufacturing processes and DFM/DFA principles.
• Experience taking concepts through to prototype or production-ready output.

Nice to Have

• Experience designing for microscopes, lab equipment, or optical systems.
• Familiarity with clean-room or lab-use design constraints.
• Knowledge of vibration control, tolerances, and precision assemblies.
• Experience coordinating with machine shops or prototype vendors.

Application Requirements

• Portfolio highlighting relevant product or instrument design work.
• Proposed timeline and cost breakdown (concept phase vs. detailed design).
• Brief description of prior experience with similar precision or attachment-based projects.