Director of External Engagement in Product Design

About The Job

Reporting to the Head of the Design Innovation Department, the Director of External Engagement in Product Design serves as the primary liaison between the School of Product Design and external partners. You will immerse yourself in fostering relationships that lead to internships, co‑ops, sponsored projects for undergraduate and graduate studios, faculty research projects, and full‑time employment opportunities. The position also plays a critical role in developing academic and executive workshops, pre‑college summer camps, and sponsorship opportunities to enhance industry collaboration and student learning. The Director provides strategic leadership and operational execution for all aspects of career development, internship placement, and employer engagement for students in the School of Product Design.

Job Responsibilities

Industry Liaison and Partnership Development (34%)

• Serve as the primary point of contact between the School and design‑related community partners and industries (consumer products, medical devices, packaging, furniture, retail, etc.).
• Work collaboratively with the Director of Alumni Relations and the College Development team to cultivate and maintain long‑term relationships with companies, alumni, and industry organizations.
• Work collaboratively with the Office of Student Services to coordinate pre‑college design camps and summer workshops that engage prospective students and promote pathways into design education.

Internship Coordination (33%)

• Work collaboratively with the College of Design Career and Internship Services to develop, manage, and expand internship and co‑op opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students.
• Provide one‑on‑one product design‑specific guidance and support for students related to internships/co‑ops/careers.
• Maintain and update a database of internship opportunities and employers.
• Collaborate with faculty to align internships with program learning objectives and outcomes.

Business Development and Sponsorship (33%)

• Identify and secure sponsorships for product design studios, capstone projects, and innovation labs.
• Collaborate with the College’s development team to build sustainable industry partnerships.
• Develop and manage partnership agreements in collaboration with faculty.
• Connect product design faculty with opportunities for short‑term executive education programs, innovation sprints, and professional workshops for corporate partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Experience working in or alongside design‑driven fields (e.g., product design, industrial design, user experience, engineering, or related industries) that demonstrates the ability to communicate between academic and industry contexts.
• 3+ years of post‑graduation experience in career services, corporate recruiting, professional/org development, corporate recruiting or in professional strategic communication roles.
• Experience in building and sustaining professional/industry/organizational partnership.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Proficient with digital tools for communication and data management.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree.
• Ability to teach Industrial Design/Product Design Portfolio Prep class or Internship course.
• Background in product design, industrial design, or related fields.

Pay And Benefits

Pay Range: $56,000 - $72,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 75% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Benefits Package

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low‑cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer‑paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please submit the following:

• Resume/CV
• Cover Letter

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e‑mail or call (612) 624‑8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

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