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.