Color and Materials Designer

Summary /Objective

The Footwear Color and Materials Designer will conceptualize and deliver high quality color, material, and finished design details for new footwear styles. They will take ownership of the design process, incorporating design direction with aesthetic taste and product requirements. A specialist of materials, craftsmanship, and branding, this role will work closely with cross-functional teams to refine the product to meet design, CMF, cost, marketing, and timing objectives.

Position Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

• Work closely with the Footwear Team to explore and refine new footwear models.
• Create colorways and tech packs/specs based on seasonal planning.
• Lead seasonal color palette strategy and execution. Refine color and aesthetic details throughout the product creation cycle.
• Build and maintain the footwear material library, partnering with material vendors to develop new material innovations and seasonal color requirements.
• Ownership of finishing design concepts from the Design lead.
• Produce material recommendations to facilitate communication with vendors regarding the development of new materials.
• Collaborate with the Design and Product Development teams to optimize aesthetics, quality, performance, cost, and timing.
• Research and forecast fashion, materials, and market trends.
• Develop a continuous flow of new concepts and materials, providing the footwear team with the latest innovations to work from.
• Interpret design intent, offer alternative solutions, and be a brand design resource.
• Contribute to product specs and construction standards.
• Work with factories to ensure and improve color, material, and finishing execution.
• Sketch, produce CADs, and develop aesthetic guidance for internal teams and overseas manufacturers.
• Contribute to any development and sampling needs.
• Other Duties - Please note that this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Qualifications and Competencies:

• Knowledge of footwear form, color, materials, and human factors related to elevating the consumer experience.
• Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Microsoft Suite; 3D programs are a plus.
• Must be able to create accurate CADs and 2D technical drawings. Technical knowledge of footwear from concept through bulk production.
• Ability to thrive in a high-volume, rapidly changing environment, with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
• Must be organized and illustrate keen attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in team collaboration.
• Commitment to brand identity and a focus on business growth.
• Strong sketching, illustration, and rendering skills.
• Solid knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials.
• Must generate a broad range of concepts and solutions for each project.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion or Industrial Design or equivalent work experience.
• 5- 7 years of experience designing and developing innovative footwear and other products