Footwear Color Designer

Job Overview

We are seeking a Footwear Color Designer to help shape the future of footwear through innovative color storytelling, trend-driven narratives, and product excellence. The ideal candidate will combine creative vision, technical expertise in color application, and a deep understanding of consumer trends to elevate footwear designs. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong collaboration skills, capable of balancing business-driven color strategies with bold, distinctive storytelling. You will work closely with Design Directors, developers, and manufacturing partners to ensure color execution meets high standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop & Execute Color Strategies – Create compelling blocking strategies, color journeys, and palettes that align with category direction.

• Trend & Consumer Insight Integration – Stay ahead of color trends in fashion, art, sports, and design to inform product storytelling.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Partner with Design, Development, and Manufacturing to ensure color accuracy and achievability.

• Technical Color Expertise – Demonstrate strong knowledge of dyes, finishes, materials, and color technology to achieve desired effects.

• Sample Review & Troubleshooting – Evaluate prototypes, identify color achievability issues, and communicate adjustments efficiently.

• Adobe Creative Suite Proficiency – Utilize Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and Keynote to present color concepts.

• Adaptability & Speed – Thrive in a fast-paced environment, handling last-minute changes and ambiguity while maintaining product excellence.

Qualifications & Experience Required

• Bachelor's degree in Design (or equivalent experience).

• 3-5+ years in Footwear/Apparel Color Design (or related field: textiles, materials, trend forecasting).

• Strong portfolio showcasing color storytelling, palette development, and footwear/apparel applications.

• Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) & Keynote (Mac).

• Understanding of color technology (dyes, finishes, material interactions).

• Hybrid Availability – Must work onsite at Company WHQ (Mon-Thurs), remote Fridays.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience

• Experience with leading sport/lifestyle brands (e.g., Adidas, Under Armour, Reebok, Hoka, On, Lululemon, etc.).

• Knowledge of Footwear Product Creation process.

Application Requirements

• Resume + Portfolio (PDF or Website Link) – Required for consideration.

• Brief Summary – Highlight relevant experience in footwear color, trend analysis, and cross-functional collaboration.

Note

This is not a leave coverage role—the team has a shift in workload requiring immediate support.