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Assistant Shoe Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Designer Brands

Associate Designer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe ... Work with Assistant Designers to build seasonal line sheets * Support sample management and ...

Designer Brands

Designer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

About Designer Brands At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe ... This position may also provide the opportunity to mentor and support Assistant and/or Associate ...

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Michael Kors

Assistant Footwear Designer

New York, NY · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

This role will support the Design Director, Senior Designer, and Technical Designer through the ... Create shoe sketches based on concept direction, CADs, and technical specs for off-price channels ...

Designer Brands

Assistant Buyer-HYBRID

Columbus, OH · On-site +1

$19.25 - $25.50/hr

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe ... As an Assistant Buyer, you'll play a critical role in helping shape the assortments customers see ...

Designer Brands

Internal Auditor

Columbus, OH · On-site +1

About Designer Brands At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe ... Prepare audit findings and assist with communicating results through written reports and ...

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Assistant Shoe Designer information

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How much do assistant shoe designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant shoe designer in the United States is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant shoe designer do?

An Assistant Shoe Designer supports lead designers in creating new footwear concepts and collections. They help with sketching designs, selecting materials, researching trends, and preparing technical drawings or prototypes. Additionally, they may assist in communicating with manufacturers and ensuring that design specifications are met during production. This role is ideal for those interested in both fashion and product development, offering hands-on experience in the footwear industry.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant shoe designers in the early stages of their careers?

Assistant Shoe Designers often face challenges such as adapting to fast-paced design timelines and balancing creative ideas with practical manufacturing constraints. In this role, you’ll frequently collaborate with senior designers and production teams, which requires strong communication and adaptability. Additionally, learning to interpret market trends and client feedback into viable design concepts can be demanding but is essential for professional growth. Overcoming these challenges helps build a solid foundation for advancement within the footwear design industry.

What is the difference between Assistant Shoe Designer vs Shoe Designer?

AspectAssistant Shoe DesignerShoe Designer
QualificationsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Fashion Design, Footwear Design, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Fashion Design, Footwear Design, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAssist in design development, trend research, and sample creation under supervisionLead design projects, create original concepts, and oversee production
ResponsibilitiesSupport senior designers, prepare sketches, and coordinate with manufacturersDevelop design ideas, select materials, and finalize shoe collections

The main difference between an Assistant Shoe Designer and a Shoe Designer lies in their responsibilities and experience level. Assistant Shoe Designers support the design team with research and sample preparation, while Shoe Designers lead the creative process and make final design decisions. Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds, but Shoe Designers usually have more experience and responsibility in the design process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant shoe designer?

To thrive as an Assistant Shoe Designer, you need a background in fashion or industrial design, strong drawing skills, and an understanding of footwear construction. Familiarity with design software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and 3D modeling tools, as well as knowledge of materials and prototyping processes, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with design and production teams are essential soft skills. These abilities are crucial for turning innovative ideas into commercially viable products while meeting both aesthetic and functional standards in a competitive market.
What cities are hiring for Assistant Shoe Designer jobs? Cities with the most Assistant Shoe Designer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Shoe Designer jobs? The most popular types of Shoe Designer jobs are:
What states have the most Assistant Shoe Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Assistant Shoe Designer jobs include:
Assistant Shoe Designer jobs near you

Associate Designer

Designer Brands

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago

Designer Brands rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

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 an 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.

What Designer Brands employees say

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About Designer Brands

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Designer Brands Inc. is one of North America's largest designers, producers and retailers of footwear and accessories. * Designer Brands Inc. operates a portfolio of retail concepts in nearly 1,000 locations under the DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Shoe Warehouse brands and operates leased locations in the U.S through its Affiliated Business Group. * Designer Brands designs and produces footwear and accessories through Camuto Group, a leading manufacturer selling in more than 5,400 doors worldwide.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbus, OH, US

Year founded

1969

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