Footwear Designer

Key Responsibilities

• Sketch (hand sketch & CAD/AI) and create specs and tech packs for the international manufacturing teams
• Help create and inspire new ideas/concepts to execute a competitive product line that supports the brands' strategic objectives, quality components, and trend concepts
• Able to balance and navigate between multiple footwear brands including aesthetics and overall design
• Maintain knowledge of current and future trends by design forecasting and research market
• Shop for inspirational designs and competitive landscape each season
• Help develop and organize colors & materials for the season
• Create mood boards for the season (color palettes, prints, materials, etc.)
• Prepare sketch boards/trend boards for team internal and external reviews (physical and in the digital space)
• Deliver presentations with focused viewpoint and confidence to senior management, licensing team, sales team and retailers
• Communicate with international development teams and agents
• Domestic and International travel as necessary
• Detailing / inputting specification sheets of footwear collections
• Aid in prototype corrections, commercialization and fit approvals; including taking notes and submitting to international teams
• General and basic operations including and not limited to: opening packages, keeping design room neat and organized to manage flow of development
• Aid with domestic and international shipments
• Keen eye to detail and color variations

Qualifications

• College design degree in footwear or applicable degrees highly preferred
• 3-5+ Years of footwear design experience
• Strong hand sketching ability
• Strong organizational skills
• Technical ability and experience fit correcting shoes
• Knowledge of synthetic materials, textiles and leathers
• Strong portfolio demonstrating exceptional design aesthetics, technical knowledge and product story telling abilities
• Experience with footwear development process and working with international teams
• Comprehensive knowledge of footwear materials, construction components, manufacturing process and fit considerations
• Effectively manage time, multi-task, and pay strong attention to detail, and work within a team environment
• Knowledge of CAD systems to assist in ideation and creative process
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint), and Adobe Creative Suite
• Experience using whiteboard applications (IE: Miro) a plus
• The ability to interpret trends for mass market to meet business and strategic needs
• Ability to work and prioritize tasks and execute deadlines in a dynamic environment
• Knowledgeable about the footwear industry and able to manage competing calendar deadlines
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and driven with a strong work ethic
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to work in NYC office 4-5 days a week (as needed)

Pay

$85k - $100k

Schedule

Not specified

Benefits

Not specified

Skills

Not specified

Benefits

Not specified

Schedule

Not specified

Application Instructions

Direct applicants only, no third-party staffing inquiries, please.

About the Role

Vida Shoes International is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.