Metal Hardware Intern

Overview

Chanel is an independent French luxury fashion house and global maison celebrated for haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, fragrance and beauty. The company combines artisanal savoir-faire with industrial excellence and maintains close collaboration between design ateliers and production teams worldwide.

Role & Responsibilities

• Support the development and prototyping of metal hardware components (buckles, clasps, logos, fittings) for accessories and leather goods.
• Prepare technical drawings and specification sheets for tooling, finishes and plating processes.
• Work with internal design, product engineering and sourcing teams to translate concepts into manufacturable parts.
• Coordinate sample production with external suppliers and internal workshops; track timelines and consolidate feedback.
• Perform quality inspections and dimensional checks on prototypes and pre-production runs using precision measuring tools.
• Document testing results, production non-conformities and corrective actions in product records.
• Contribute to material selection, surface finishing evaluations (plating, PVD, polishing) and corrosion/wear testing.
• Assist in maintaining parts libraries, version control of specifications and supplier datasheets.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree program in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Jewelry/Metalsmithing or related field.
• Basic understanding of metals, alloys and surface finishing processes used in luxury accessories.
• Familiarity with technical drawing and geometric tolerancing.
• Strong attention to detail and manual dexterity for handling small components and prototypes.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with design, sourcing and quality teams and to manage multiple small-scale projects.
• Right to work in Italy (if applicable to the placement).

Skills

Experience

Internship or up to 1–2 years' practical experience in metalworking, prototyping, jewelry/metal components or manufacturing preferred; prior exposure to accessory production environments is an advantage.

Education

Enrolled in or recently completed a bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Jewelry/Metalsmithing or equivalent.

Culture

Chanel emphasizes meticulous craftsmanship, discretion and creative excellence, blending traditional artisanal techniques with technical innovation. Teams operate in a collaborative, detail-oriented environment that values heritage, precision and a rigorous standard of quality.