What are the responsibilities and job description for the Designer, Special Projects (Footwear) position at Vibram Group?
At Vibram, we’re all about pushing boundaries and unlocking potential. We value curiosity, creativity, imagination, and a strong drive to make things better. We thrive on change, diversity, and bold thinking. We're looking for achievers, innovators, and forward-thinkers ready to make an impact. Bring your unique skills and passion to a dynamic, constantly evolving environment. Join us and help shape what’s next.
We are seeking a highly creative and detail-oriented Designer to join our Special Projects design team. In this role, you will support the footwear and component design process from concept through development, contributing to innovative, forward-thinking product in collaboration with global brand partners.
The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, is highly organized, and brings a positive, collaborative mindset. You will be working with various brand partners local and global being front consumer/brand facing as well. This role offers the opportunity to work on special projects and innovation concepts that push the boundaries of Vibram’s design and technical capabilities, while also engaging directly with both internal teams and external partners.
What You'll Be Doing
- Support the Creative Director of Special Projects and LA Connection Lab across all phases of the design process
- Ideation & Research: Conduct in depth trend research, competitive analysis, and in-person market research related to footwear, materials, silhouettes, and construction
- Sketching & CAD: Create and refine footwear sketches and CADs throughout the development process, including uppers, outsoles, tooling, and color updates
- Development: Assist in launching, developing, and tracking footwear styles, materials, trims, hardware, outsoles, and colorways
- Meetings & Documentation: Capture detailed notes during cross-functional weekly meetings and milestone reviews
- Sample Management: Organize and track inspiration samples, vendor samples, protos, SMS, and production samples
- Material Organization: Develop and maintain seasonal material, trim, and outsole libraries/binders
- Prototype Reviews: Support proto reviews by preparing, labeling, and organizing samples
- Concept Boards: Assist in creating seasonal concept boards for presentations and milestone meetings
- Project & Calendar Management: Follow design calendars and timelines, ensuring accuracy and on-time delivery of all work
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with internal teams, including Italian and global Lab teams, on innovation initiatives and special projects
- Events & Activations: Support LA Connection Lab based activations, workshops and events
- In addition to the responsibilities outlined above, this role may contribute to cross-functional initiatives and take on additional tasks as needed to support team and organizational priorities.
What You'll Bring
- Bachelor’s degree in Footwear Design, Fashion Design, Industrial Design, or related field preferred; or equivalent experience
- 1–2 years of industry experience in footwear or fashion design
- Experience with footwear making or hand crafting is a plus
- Knowledge of footwear machinery is preferred
- Knowledge of footwear materials including leathers, textiles, synthetics, rubbers, and trims
- Understanding of footwear construction, tooling, and manufacturing processes preferred
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
- Strong CAD skills with a focus on footwear
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and Word is required
- 3D modeling is a plus
- Based in Los Angeles, CA, with the ability to work in-office at least three days per week
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required
- Strong verbal and written English communication skills; Italian, Mandarin, or Cantonese a plus
Vibram is a dynamic, growth-focused company seeking team members who are ready to grow alongside us. We offer a competitive total rewards package, a relaxed and collaborative work environment, and an energizing culture that supports continuous learning and professional development.
Vibram is committed to employing a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or disability.