Freelance: Model Maker & Painter
Chicago, IL
Prototyping /
Freelance /
On-site
Kaleidoscope is a creative collective of thinkers, designers and makers that together connect people and brands.
At Kaleidoscope, we believe the most effective brand solutions require both abstract thinking & tangible results. And like a kaleidoscope that combines colors, shapes and forms to allow us to view the world through a unique point of view, our creative collective of thinkers, designers and makers come from all walks of life and flex all types of skills to provide fresh perspectives rooted in Strategy, Design and Prototyping.
Freelance Opportunities in the Kaleidoscope Model Shop
Kaleidoscope seeks talented individuals to join our model shop. These are freelance opportunities and we may not have immediate work available. We value building relationships with exceptional people and will review your application for future opportunities.
Model Making
You will assist the shop team in making 3d models and packaging comps. Fabricate 3d prototype models from drawings and cad files. Work hands on with basic wood shop machinery. Using table and band saws, sanders, routers, drill press, lathes and hand tools and or 3d printers. Work with a wide variety of materials, woods, plastics, metals, molds and casting resins.
Painting
This work requires precise color matching of automotive grade paints and applying those colors to 3d fabricated model parts and packaging comps. Most of our products we paint are cpg plastic containers, bottles, food, beverage, personal and home care products. Rebranded with new colors, finishes and graphics. The model parts we paint are fabricated by hand, machined, cnc, 3d printed or cast in resin.
Required Model Making Skills/Experience
- Experience fabricating conventional 3d prototype models from drawings and cad files.
- Basic wood shop training and experience, enabling you to work comfortably and effectively with our tools and materials.
- Experience with detail maker work, building, part finishing, hand sanding.
- Creative, enthusiastic, hardworking with a maker driven attitude.
- Strong attention to detail and QC is essential. We strive for excellence and a high level of craftsmanship in all our projects.
- Experience collaborating and communicating effectively with coworkers and teams, model makers, project and account teams, designers, and clients.
Required Painting Skills/Experience
- Demonstrate the ability to work independently. Match automotive base paint colors efficiently and accurately to Pantone and client samples.
- Must have a thorough understanding and work experience with color theory. As well as, the ability to articulate and direct color options to project and account teams.
- Have strong physical stamina to handle professional hand spray gun equipment and perform repetitive consistent spray applications of paint throughout the day.
- Organizational skills to document projects and maintain a safe, clean paint room environment.
- Experience with color theory and related arts field is required.
- Strong attention to detail and QC is essential. We strive for excellence and a high level of craftsmanship in all our projects.
- Experience collaborating and communicating effectively with coworkers and teams, model makers, project and account teams, designers, and clients.
Important Information
- Please note that all applicants must be able to work onsite at our studio in Chicago. Only applicants who can work onsite at our Chicago office during regular business hours (typically 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM) will be considered.
- This freelance opportunity offers flexibility and intermittent work based on our workload. While we can't guarantee immediate assignments, we believe in nurturing long-term relationships with talented individuals like you.
- This job posting will provide a general overview of the role and its requirements. The responsibilities and tasks assigned to the freelancer may vary based on specific projects and needs.
To Apply:
Submit your resume and a brief cover letter telling us a little about yourself. If available, please include a few work samples or portfolio link with your application.
We appreciate your interest in joining our team and look forward to reviewing your application for potential future collaborations.
At Kaleidoscope, we value our team members and strive to provide them with a competitive benefits package that supports their well-being and helps them achieve their financial and personal goals. In addition to a great studio space, unlimited Starbucks coffee, and awesome people (and sometimes dogs) to work with, we offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time team members, including:
- Flexible work arrangements, including work-from-home options and flexible hours, for certain roles;
- Generous PTO/Floating Holidays, Paid Holidays, and Paid Parental Leave to support work-life balance;
- Health, well-being, and retirement benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance;
- 100% employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance;
- Voluntary Life Insurance for additional coverage for yourself, partner, and children;
- Voluntary Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance (STD and LTD) for added financial protection;
- 401(k) plan with a generous employer match to help you plan for your future;
- Employee Assistance Program - free and confidential support for you and your family.
We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Upon hire, candidates are required to provide proof of authorization to work in the United States.
