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Design Manager Jobs in Apex, NC (NOW HIRING)

Implus

Design Manager, Hosiery

Durham, NC · On-site

We are seeking a visionary Design Manager to lead our active and lifestyle sock categories, as well as a range of accessories including slippers, cold weather/outerwear, and hair/beauty accessories.

Implus

Design Manager, Hosiery

Durham, NC · Hybrid

We are seeking a visionary Design Manager to lead our active and lifestyle sock categories, as well as a range of accessories including slippers, cold weather/outerwear, and hair/beauty accessories.

STV Incorporated

Structural Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$170K - $194K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

TV is seeking a Structural Design Manager candidate to join our Bridge practice in North Carolina. This hybrid position may be located out of our Raleigh, NC office. We have an immediate need for a ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Job Title Project Design Manager Summary The Project Design Manager's role is to be the main point of contact for their assigned account(s), implement workplace strategy and standards, and provide ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Job Title Project Design Manager Summary The Project Design Manager's role is to be the main point of contact for their assigned account(s), implement workplace strategy and standards, and provide ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Raleigh, NC

$87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Job Title Project Design Manager Summary The Project Design Manager's role is to be the main point of contact for their assigned account(s), implement workplace strategy and standards, and provide ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$87K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Job Title Project Design Manager Summary The Project Design Manager's role is to be the main point of contact for their assigned account(s), implement workplace strategy and standards, and provide ...

Exyte Group

Senior Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$146K/yr

Discover your exciting role The Senior Design Manager, with expertise in Biopharma Life Sciences, will oversee a multidisciplinary project design team-comprising engineers, designers, and support ...

Exyte Group

Senior Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$140K/yr

Discover your exciting role The Senior Design Manager, with expertise in Biopharma Life Sciences, will oversee a multidisciplinary project design team-comprising engineers, designers, and support ...

Peter Millar

Technical Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$112K - $113K/yr

The Technical Design Manager is responsible for working closely with the Development team to ensure apparel products meet the highest standards of fit, construction, and quality. This role focuses on ...

Peter Millar

Technical Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$112K - $113K/yr

The Technical Design Manager is responsible for working closely with the Development team to ensure apparel products meet the highest standards of fit, construction, and quality. This role focuses on ...

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All JobsDesign JobsDesign Manager JobsDesign Manager Jobs in Apex, NC

Design Manager information

See Apex, NC salary details

$32K

$87.2K

$153.5K

How much do design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for design manager in Apex, NC is $87,238.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,600.00 and $109,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design manager?

Design Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design process within a project or organization. They coordinate and lead design teams, ensure design objectives align with business goals, and manage timelines, budgets, and resources. Design Managers often act as a bridge between creative teams and other departments, facilitating communication and ensuring that the final product meets both aesthetic and functional requirements. Their role can span across industries such as architecture, graphic design, product design, and digital media.

What does a design manager do?

A design manager oversees a design team during a project and typically works in the construction and architecture industries. As a design manager, you may work for specialty companies that contract out to construction firms on a per-project basis. Or, you may spend your career working as an in-house design manager for a construction company or architect firm. Regardless of the location of your job as a design manager, your duties revolve around supervising the design of a building project and include adhering to legislation and codes, eliminating safety and financial risks, and advising clients during development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design manager?

To thrive as a Design Manager, you need a strong background in design principles, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a degree in design or a related field and several years of design experience. Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and project management tools like Asana or Trello is essential. Exceptional communication, team leadership, and problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively leading creative teams, delivering high-quality design outcomes, and meeting client or organizational goals.

How does a design manager typically balance creative vision with project deadlines and client expectations?

A Design Manager is responsible for guiding their team's creative direction while ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. This often means carefully prioritizing tasks, setting clear milestones, and communicating regularly with clients and stakeholders to manage expectations. They serve as a bridge between creative teams and project managers, helping to resolve conflicts and maintain a productive workflow. By fostering open collaboration and providing constructive feedback, Design Managers help ensure both the creative vision and practical project requirements are met.

What is the difference between Design Manager vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesign ManagerGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, management experienceBachelor's degree in graphic design or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads design teams, oversees projectsCreates visual content, works independently or in teams
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, agency, and studio settingsCommon in advertising, publishing, branding

The main difference between a Design Manager and a Graphic Designer lies in their responsibilities and scope. Design Managers oversee design teams and strategic project planning, while Graphic Designers focus on creating visual content. Both roles require relevant design credentials, but Design Managers also need leadership experience. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What degree do you need to be a design manager?

A design manager typically holds a bachelor's degree in design, graphic design, industrial design, or a related field. Many also pursue a master's degree or additional certifications to enhance their skills and qualifications for leadership roles in design teams.

What does a design manager earn?

A design manager's salary varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. They often oversee design teams, coordinate projects, and use tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software, with higher salaries generally associated with larger companies or senior roles.

What is the highest paying career in design?

In design, executive roles such as Creative Director or Design Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially in large corporations or agencies. Specialized fields like UX/UI design, product design, and design consulting can also offer high compensation, particularly with extensive experience and advanced skills in tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch.
More about Design Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Apex, NC?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Apex, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Manager jobs in Apex, NC?

For Design Manager jobs in Apex, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Manager jobs in Apex, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Manager jobs in Apex, NC are:

What cities near Apex, NC are hiring for Design Manager jobs?

Cities near Apex, NC with the most Design Manager job openings:

Design Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Manager job openings in Apex, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,238 per year, or $41.9 per hour.

Design Manager, Hosiery

Implus

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Implus Footcare, LLC is an industry-leading global consumer packaged goods company with 20+ brands in footwear accessories, hosiery, specialty running, outdoor, fitness and movement categories. Implus is headquartered in Research Triangle Park in Durham, NC with locations in the United States, Australia, Canada, Europe, Hong Kong, and South Africa. Our brand family includes Balega, Harbinger, TriggerPoint, Perfect, Sport-Brella, DryGuy, SKLZ, RockTape, Sof Sole, Stabil, Spenco, Yaktrax, Apara, Airplus, Sneaker Balls, Sof Comfort, Little Hotties, Forcefield. From insoles, socks, and shoe care to fitness equipment and seasonal accessories, Implus' products are sold in over 80,000 retail locations across North America and in over 70 countries worldwide.
At Implus we are committed to creating and sustaining an inclusive culture. We encourage & value different perspectives and are seeking a Hosiery Design Manager who shares our commitment to inclusivity and enjoys working collaboratively with colleagues from diverse backgrounds.
POSITION SUMMARY:
We are seeking a visionary Design Manager to lead our active and lifestyle sock categories, as well as a range of accessories including slippers, cold weather/outerwear, and hair/beauty accessories. This role is a perfect blend of high-level creative direction and dynamic people leadership. You will be responsible for designing and developing products for our owned brands, as well as creating and managing private label programs for major mass-market retailers. Reporting directly to the Senior Director of Everyday Hosiery, you will drive the seasonal design process from concept to commercialization while fostering a culture of innovation, mentorship, and excellence within the design team. This position is hybrid, with fluctuating in-office days based on business needs.
Essential Job Function:
PEOPLE LEADERSHIP & TEAM DEVELOPMENT
  • Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of designers and assistants; foster a collaborative, high-performance environment that encourages creative risk-taking.
  • Actively participate in attracting, developing, and retaining top design talent. Conduct regular performance evaluations and support individual career growth paths.
  • Oversee daily operations for the creative team, balancing workloads, removing roadblocks, and ensuring strict adherence to the seasonal product development calendar.
  • Build strong, productive relationships with Merchandising, Product Development, and Sales to ensure the design team's vision aligns with overarching brand and revenue goals

DESIGN EXPERTISE & CREATIVE VISION
  • Drive seasonal trend research, color palettes, and material innovations specifically targeted at performance, activewear, and lifestyle hosiery.
  • Hands-On CAD Execution: Act as a "player-coach" by directly executing design CADs, tech packs, and technical sketches in Adobe Illustrator when needed to support team bandwidth and meet critical deadlines.
  • Apply deep knowledge of circular knitting, advanced yarn technologies, and knit execution to push the boundaries of fit, comfort, and athletic performance.
  • Oversee the meticulous creation of tech packs and line sheets. Approve lab dips, trims, and final prototypes to ensure licensor and brand standards are met.
  • Lead the design team in identifying and resolving complex fit, construction, and manufacturing issues during the sampling and production process.

Key Skills & Competencies
  • People Leadership: Proven ability to attract, retain, and evaluate talent, while actively managing the workflow and career development of design assistants and associates.
  • Time & Project Management: Ability to plan, prioritize, and meet tight deadlines within a fast-paced product development calendar while balancing team workloads and multiple projects.
  • Creative Problem Solving: Ability to respond to design and production challenges with innovative, cost-effective, and commercially viable solutions.
  • Cross-Functional Influence: Ability to bridge the gap between creative design, merchandising, and production to ensure commercial viability and adherence to the development calendar.
  • Adaptability: Flexible attitude with the ability to pivot quickly based on shifting market needs; operates successfully and positively in a constructive feedback culture.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience: 5+ years in apparel or accessories design, with a mandatory and proven track record in socks, accessories, and/or performance knits. Experience designing for mass-market retailers and/or developing private label programs is highly preferred.
  • Leadership Record: 2+ years of direct people management, demonstrating the ability to guide, evaluate, and scale creative teams effectively.
  • Technical Proficiency: Highly proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), PLM systems, and Microsoft Office. Experience with 3D design tools (e.g., Clo3D) is a strong advantage.
  • Trend Tools: Experience utilizing professional consumer trend-forecasting platforms (such as WGSN) and interpreting retail market analytics.
  • Portfolio Required: A professional portfolio demonstrating advanced technical CAD abilities, cohesive color/trend ideation, structural knitwear understanding, and commercialized product collections.

Education & Experience:
A Bachelor's degree in Apparel/Textile Design, Graphic Design, or a related field of study, OR an equivalent combination of education and years of industry experience.
Relevant Working Conditions & Physical Demands:
  • Observe/Identify: The ability to observe fine product details, colors, stitch structures, and physical samples/color standards at close range.
  • Communicate: Ability to effectively communicate design concepts, technical instructions, and feedback to co-workers, vendors, and cross-functional teams.
  • Operate: Write, type, and utilize standard computer systems, specifically including highly repetitive use of MAC systems, keyboards, and digital monitors.
  • Stationary Position: Must be able to remain in a stationary design position 50-75% of the time.
  • Mobility: Frequently move about the office to access sample archives, design boards, collaborate with other departments, and attend meetings.
  • Move/Transport: Ability to occasionally move or transport boxes of product samples or trend materials weighing up to 25 lbs. across the office with or without reasonable accommodations.
  • Environment: Standard climate-controlled office environment with occasional exposure to open-air or warehouse settings during sample reviews.
  • Travel: May require occasional domestic or international travel for retailer meetings, trend shopping, or factory visits.
  • Flexibility: Workplace model is hybrid, with fluctuating in-office days based on GTM milestones, retail meetings, and business needs.
  • Attendance: Predictable attendance on site
  • Work has deadlines, multiple interruptions and may be stressful at times.

Implus is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and committed to creating a diverse and inclusive company culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion/belief, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other protected status under the law. Individuals needing a reasonable accommodation should contact hr@4implus.com.

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