Footwear Design Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About Us

At J.Jill, we believe our associates should be seen, valued, and celebrated. We support the advancement of our associates by harnessing their unique contributions to grow and improve, and our success is guided by a culture that values keeping it simple and making it matter. J.Jill is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing an inclusive and professional workplace free from discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at J.Jill are based solely upon business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, sexual orientation, sexual and reproductive health decisions, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status or any other legally protected status. J.Jill provides reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals, in accordance with applicable laws.  If you need to inquire about an accommodation to assist with completing the application process, please email Talent.Acquisition@jjill.com.

Overview

The Senior Designer, Accessories is responsible for leading the design and development of seasonal accessories collections, with handbags serving as the anchor category, supported by belts, footwear, soft accessories, and socks. This role oversees the creative vision for all products, ensuring all product categories work together to tell a cohesive brand story that reflects the J.Jill customer and brand aesthetic.

The Senior Designer partners closely with the Creative Director, apparel Design Directors, Merchandising, Product Development, Sourcing, and overseas vendors to drive the product process from concept through production. This individual combines strong creative leadership, technical expertise, trend awareness, and business acumen to deliver compelling, commercially successful accessories collections. The role may also provide guidance, mentoring, and development to junior design team members.

ResponsibilitiesCollection & Design Leadership         Lead the creative design and development of seasonal accessories collections, with handbags as the primary category and footwear, belts, and soft accessories supporting the overall vision.         Interpret and implement design concepts within the general design concept appropriate for the J.Jill customer while maintaining and evolving the brand aesthetic.         Develop innovative, brand-right products aligned with seasonal apparel concepts, customer needs, and business objectives.         Create and execute seasonal color, material, and silhouette strategies across accessories categories.         Design custom hardware and trim concepts that can be leveraged across handbags, belts, and footwear collections.Trend Research & Concept Development         Partner with Concept, Trend, and Research & Development teams to identify and translate emerging trends into commercially viable product concepts.         Monitor runway, retail, cultural, and consumer trends with a focus on handbags, leather goods, footwear, and accessories.         Develop seasonal mood boards, inspiration presentations, and collection storytelling that support overall brand direction.Product Development & Vendor Collaboration         Manage the product development process from initial concept through production.         Partner closely with Sourcing and Merchandising to ensure designs align with assortment strategies, cost targets, margin goals, and quality standards.         Collaborate with overseas vendors to develop materials, prototypes, hardware, and finished products.         Review prototypes and samples, providing clear direction to vendors and cross-functional partners to achieve design intent.         Ensure timely completion of line sheets, design specifications, and collection presentations.Technical Design & Execution         Apply advanced knowledge of handbag construction, leather goods development, footwear design, materials, trims, hardware, and finishing techniques.         Select and develop leathers, materials, custom hardware, and finishes that support both design vision and business requirements.         Partner with technical and product development teams to resolve construction and production challenges while maintaining design integrity.Leadership & Team Development         Serve as a leader within the design organization, fostering collaboration and innovation across teams.         Provide guidance, mentoring, coaching, and development to junior designers and team members as applicable.         Support and contribute to a positive, creative, and high-performing team culture.

Benefits, Tailored for You.

• Bonus eligible
• 401(k) retirement plan with discretionary match and tuition reimbursement.
• Medical, dental, vision, company paid LTD/STD, and generous amount of paid time off.
• Office includes amenities such as a cafe, fitness center, free parking and Red Line shuttle.
• Generous associate discount; group discounts on auto, pet and homeowner insurance.
• Discount Marketplace for travel, consumer products, food, auto buying, etc.
• Associate resource groups.

Qualifications

• Expert knowledge of handbag design and leather goods development.
• Strong understanding of footwear, belts, and complementary accessory categories.
• Deep knowledge of leathers, custom hardware design, construction methods, and finishing techniques.
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Experience working within PLM systems and web-based product development tools.
• Strong trend forecasting, concept development, and storytelling skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with internal partners and overseas vendors.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong collaboration, leadership, and relationship-building skills.
• Business acumen with the ability to balance creativity, customer needs, and financial objectives.
• Innovation and creative thinking.
• Thrives in a fast-paced environment.

 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Design, Accessories Design, or a related field required.
• 8+ years of accessories design experience, with significant experience in handbags and leather goods.
• Experience leading seasonal product development from concept through production.
• Prior experience mentoring or leading junior designers preferred.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by associates assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of this position.

Our Brand

At J.Jill, we're redefining what it means to dress and live with ease. As a women-led, Boston-based lifestyle brand with 200+ stores nationwide, we design thoughtful, inspired apparel and accessories that celebrate the totality of all women. We're entering an exciting chapter of growth - expanding our footprint, reaching new customers, and deepening long-standing relationships. We're seeking bold thinkers and doers to join us. With competitive pay and benefits, a supportive culture, and the chance to make a real impact, this is more than a job, it's an opportunity to bring our ethos keep it simple, make it matter to life in new and inspiring ways.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME