Shape the Future of Light with Us.

Workshop Craftsman

We are looking for a motivated, self-starting Senior Industrial Designer with an exceptional work ethic who thrives under tight timelines and is passionate about personal and studio growth. If you live and breathe design, bring a critical, pragmatic approach, and possess an uncompromising eye for detail, get in touch!

Who Are We

ILANEL is a globally renowned Melbourne design studio operating at the decisive intersection of structural permanence and the transformative power of illumination. Established in 2010, the practice has consistently redefined the concept of spatial lighting through a commitment to deep narrative storytelling, artistic synthesis, and highly rigorous, in-house manufacturing. From monumentally scaled museum interventions and kinetic installations to bespoke collections for luxury retail, hospitality, and private sanctuaries, our work serves as a vital, luminous heartbeat that animates and redefines surrounding architecture.

Operating as a full-service design and manufacturing hub from our St Kilda studio, we provide an end-to-end pathway from conceptual design to site-specific installation. Our portfolio includes acclaimed collaborations with leading architects and designers worldwide, with notable projects including the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) Triennial, the Canberra Beacon at the Australian War Memorial, and major installations for the Four Seasons, WeWork, and The Hour Glass.

The Role

We are looking for a practical, hands-on maker to join our St Kilda workshop. You will be responsible for turning sketches into finished, high-quality products. This role is for a craftsman who takes full ownership of the workshop floor and ensures every piece is built to the highest standard.

Key Responsibilities

  • Hand-Building & Soldering: Expertly soldering components and building high-end lights and art pieces by hand using brass, aluminium, and glass.

  • Metal Forming: Using workshop machinery for custom bending and rolling to create armatures and unique shapes.

  • Surface Finishing: Applying chemical patinas to brass and other metals to achieve specific architectural finishes.

  • Technical Development: Figuring out the best way to engineer and assemble complex designs so they are safe, functional, and beautiful.

  • Workshop Care: Maintaining machinery, managing daily workflow, and keeping the atelier organised.

  • Site Installation: Assisting with the safe delivery and on-site installation of large-scale architectural pieces when required.

What You Need

  • Workshop Experience: Minimum 2-3 years of professional workshop experience required.

  • Work Rights: Candidates must hold a valid Australian work visa to be eligible.

  • Soldering Expertise: You must be highly skilled in soldering. This is a mandatory requirement for the role.

  • Learner’s Mindset: A genuine drive to learn and self-educate. We often build what has never been done before, so you must be eager to research new methods and find creative solutions.

  • Technical Foundation: Skilled in metal bending and rolling. Previous experience with chemical patina application is preferred, however training will be provided to suitable candidates. (Note: No welding is required).

  • Plan Reading: The ability to look at 2D technical drawings and accurately visualise 3D objects.

  • Precision: An eye for detail and an understanding that a millimetre makes a difference in bespoke work.

What We Offer

  • Bespoke Projects: The opportunity to work on world-class, creative projects rather than repetitive factory work.

  • Stable Role: A long-term position in a supportive team in St Kilda.

  • Location: 1/264 St Kilda Road, St Kilda, Victoria.

  • Hours: 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Benefits

  • A highly creative, inspiring, and supportive studio environment in St Kilda, valuing work-life balance and collaborative input.

  • Direct involvement in prestigious, high-profile cultural, civic, and commercial projects nationally and globally.

  • Deep investment in your professional growth, technical skill expansion, and personal development.

  • A highly competitive salary package calibrated to your specific skills, experience, and the unique value you bring to our team.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a selected portfolio (PDF or web link) demonstrating your technical drafting, rendering, and physical workshop/maker achievements to info@ilanel.com.