Associate Designer

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on‑trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni‑channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward.

The Opportunity
At Designer Brands, creativity isn’t just encouraged—it’s essential. As a

Associate Designer , you’ll be part of a passionate team shaping the future of Kelly & Katie shoes. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment and is eager to bring fresh ideas to life. You’ll work closely with experienced designers and cross‑functional teams to transform concepts into products that inspire confidence and style. This is a hybrid role that requires the ability to work from our NYC showroom as needed. Typically, around 3 days per week, with increased in‑office time during key development periods.

What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll be hands‑on throughout the design journey—from trend research to final product execution. Your work will directly influence the look and feel of our seasonal collections.

Trend & Concept Development

Gather inspiration through market research, trend analysis, and visual sourcing (tearsheets, screenshots, etc.)

Participate in identifying seasonal fashion directions, including fabrics, techniques, trims, and silhouettes

Assist in creating illustrations and digital renderings using Photoshop and Illustrator

Design Execution & Collaboration

Support sketching and specing under the guidance of senior design leaders

Enter and maintain accurate design specifications in internal systems

Prepare presentation boards and concept materials for design meetings

Collaborate with overseas teams to communicate design intent and updates

Technical Design & Product Development

Develop flat sketches and detailed tech/design packs with precision

Attend fittings and update sketches based on fit notes

Review prototypes and revise tech packs to reflect changes

Partner with production teams to ensure designs meet pricing and market guidelines

Seasonal Line Management

Work with Assistant Designers to build seasonal line sheets

Support sample management and showroom setup

Present design projects and contribute to the overall design vision

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

Communicate regularly with development, production, and sales teams to ensure smooth seasonal execution

Anticipate and manage design deadlines to meet critical milestones

Travel to Columbus, Ohio office as needed

What You’ll Need
We’re looking for someone who’s not only skilled but also curious, adaptable, and ready to grow.

Skills & Attributes

Strong visual and creative sensibility with the ability to sketch and CAD

Proficiency in Illustrator, Photoshop, and Microsoft Office Suite

Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Highly organized with strong time management and attention to detail

Professional, flexible, and customer‑focused mindset

Experience

3–5 years of footwear design experience

Proven ability to create technical drawings, tech packs, CADs, and merchandising boards

Experience participating in sample fittings and corrections

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Merchandising, Design, or a related field (footwear, fashion, or industrial design)

Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy!

Your Sole Well‑Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at https://mymobilewalletcard.com/dbi.

Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work.

Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives.

We are Shoe‑Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & DSW.com, plus discounts across our family of brands.

Hiring Range Notification
The successful candidate’s actual pay rate offer will consider a wide range of job‑related factors including skill sets, years and nature of relevant experience, training, pay rates of associates in similar positions, the candidate’s location, and other organizational needs. The estimated hiring pay range has been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential. This position may be eligible for additional incentive compensation, which may include bonuses, or other forms of variable pay, subject to applicable program requirements and company discretion. This range does not include benefits such as health insurance, paid or unpaid time off work, and/or retirement benefits, unless required by law. Benefits eligibility may vary based on where you work and your position. Visit https://mymobilewalletcard.com/dbi/ to learn more!

Job Details
Pay Range
$75,000.00 - $90,000.00 / hour

Pay Transparency
Company complies with Pay Transparency rules.

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