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Sneaker Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The beautifully designed office has 360 views and tall windows to bring the outside in. The office ... Experience in the streetwear and sneaker market is preferred, with the ability to provide insight ...

... the Shop TODAY Sneaker Awards, we are consistently recognized as the gold standard for both ... WWW) is one of the world's leading designers, marketers, and licensors of footwear and apparel ...

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Sneaker Designer information

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$25

$56

How much do sneaker designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for sneaker designer in the United States is $25.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sneaker designer do?

A sneaker designer is responsible for creating the concepts, designs, and prototypes for athletic and casual footwear. They combine knowledge of fashion trends, materials, and performance requirements to design sneakers that are both functional and stylish. Sneaker designers often work closely with engineers, marketers, and manufacturers to bring their designs from sketches to finished products. Their creative vision helps shape the look and feel of new sneaker collections for brands and consumers.

How does a Sneaker Designer typically collaborate with other departments during the product development process?

Sneaker Designers work closely with cross-functional teams, including product managers, material specialists, marketing, and manufacturing engineers. Throughout the design cycle, they participate in brainstorming sessions, provide sketches and prototypes, and incorporate feedback from various stakeholders to ensure the final product meets both aesthetic and functional requirements. This collaborative approach helps align the sneaker’s design with brand vision, technical feasibility, and market trends, making strong communication and teamwork skills essential for success.

How to become a sneaker designer?

To become a sneaker designer, develop strong skills in graphic design, illustration, and footwear construction, often through a degree in industrial design, fashion design, or a related field. Building a portfolio with original sneaker concepts and gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles in footwear companies can help establish your career. Proficiency in design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop is also valuable.

What is the difference between Sneaker Designer vs Footwear Designer?

AspectSneaker DesignerFootwear Designer
CredentialsDesign degree, portfolio, industry experienceDesign degree, portfolio, industry experience
Work EnvironmentSportswear brands, streetwear companies, athletic brandsLuxury brands, casual footwear companies, sportswear brands
Industry UsageFocus on athletic, casual, and trendy sneakersBroader footwear range including dress shoes, boots, casual shoes
Search & Comparison IntentDesigning sneakers specificallyDesigning various types of footwear

While both Sneaker Designers and Footwear Designers create shoes, Sneaker Designers specialize in athletic and casual sneakers, often working with sportswear brands. Footwear Designers have a broader scope, designing all types of shoes including dress shoes, boots, and casual footwear. The roles overlap in skills and credentials but differ in focus and industry applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sneaker Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sneaker Designer, you need a strong background in footwear design, knowledge of materials, and proficiency in sketching, typically supported by a degree in industrial or fashion design. Mastery of digital design tools like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and 3D modeling software such as Rhino or SolidWorks is essential. Creativity, trend awareness, and effective collaboration skills help set standout designers apart. These abilities are crucial for creating innovative, marketable sneakers that align with brand identity and consumer demand.

What is the salary of a shoe designer?

The salary of a sneaker designer typically ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the company. Entry-level designers may earn less, while experienced professionals or those working for major brands can earn higher salaries and bonuses.

How much do sneaker designers make?

Sneaker designers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the company. Entry-level designers may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working for major brands can earn higher salaries. Skills in CAD software and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

What is the highest paid designer job?

The highest paid designer jobs are often senior or lead roles such as Creative Director or Chief Design Officer, with salaries reaching six figures or more. In the sneaker industry, top designers working for major brands or luxury labels can earn high compensation, especially with extensive experience, strong portfolios, and industry reputation.
More about Sneaker Designer jobs
What job categories do people searching Sneaker Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sneaker Designer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Sneaker Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 29% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,082 per year, or $25 per hour.

Financial Planner Career Changer Opportunity

Tysons District - Northwestern Mutual

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Benefits:
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company parties
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development
  • Vision insurance

Ready to turn your experience into something more meaningful? At Tysons District Northwestern Mutual, were redefining what it means to grow a career in financial services. Our team is proud to have four advisors and practices featured on the 2024 & 2025 Forbes Top Financial Security Professionals list, a testament to our commitment to excellence. Rooted in the belief that success should be both personal and purposeful, our mission is to give entrepreneurial-minded individuals the platform to build the life they desire, while making an impact that lasts for generations. With a culture built around the idea that you're "in it for yourself, but never by yourself," teammates genuinely support one anothers growth. From quarterly team events to our no Sunday scaries approach to work, we value connection, balance, and drive. Were also proud to give back through initiatives like Alexs Lemonade Stand and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, keeping community at the heart of what we do.
Why Career Changers Could Thrive Here:
  • You already have what it takes, people skills, perseverance, and a desire to make a difference.
  • We provide the training, mentorship, and professional licensing support to help you confidently transition into financial services.
  • Youll be surrounded by a team thats walked the same path, people who once coached, built, designed, or taught before building their own financial practices.
Our thriving office is located at: 8484 Westpark Drive, Suite 700, McLean, VA 22102

A Glance at Northwestern Mutual (NM):

Northwestern Mutual is a FORTUNE 500 company that provides a wide range of financial services to more than 5 million people. As a mutual company, we answer to our policyownersnot Wall Street. We began in Wisconsin in 1857, and today were one of Americas top companies - as was recognized by FORTUNE as one of the Worlds Most Admired companies in 2024 - with a unique culture deeply dedicated to helping people achieve financial security.
Meet Our Local Team:
Sep Harandi Managing Director & Co-Founder of Five Pillars Wealth:
  • Time with NM: 5 years
  • Prior Experience: Graduate of the University of Oklahoma; joined NM after completing grad school.
  • Passionate About: A big soccer fan and former collegiate player at Longwood University, Sep also enjoys playing golf and tennis, trying new restaurants, and spending time with his shepherd/husky mix, Chano.
Aubrey Rosser Private Wealth Advisor & Growth and Development Director:
  • Time with NM: 16 years
  • Prior Experience: Former Wall Street professional who transitioned to NM after the 2008 crash to build a more stable and self-directed career.
  • Passionate About: A dual-sport athlete in college (basketball and baseball), Aubrey is also an avid golfer. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Nicole, and their three children.
Bryce Coffee Private Wealth Advisor & Growth and Development Director:
  • Time with NM: 15 years
  • Prior Experience: Worked in private equity in Atlanta, GA prior to joining NM.
  • Passionate About: A golf enthusiast and dedicated sneaker collector (especially Jordans and golf shoes), Bryce enjoys family life with his wife and their three children.
Jason Tiede Private Wealth Advisor & Growth and Development Director:
  • Time with NM: 11 years
  • Prior Experience: Former Director at Blackboard in the education sector.
  • Passionate About: A proud UVA alum and UVA sports fan. He and his wife have three children, and their oldest is heading to the University of Tennessee. Jason and Amanda have long been active supporters of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS).
About the Role: As a Financial Planner at Northwestern Mutual, you will be part of a team that helps individuals and businesses achieve their financial goals through personalized insurance solutions and financial planning. Your role involves building long-term relationships with clients, understanding their unique needs, and providing tailored financial solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Client Consultation: Engage with clients to understand their financial goals, aspirations, and concerns.
  • Financial Planning: Develop comprehensive financial plans that include investments, insurance, and retirement.
  • Insurance Solutions: Recommend and implement insurance strategies to protect clients' assets and income.
  • Ongoing Support: Monitor clients' financial plans and provide regular updates, adjusting strategies as needed to meet changing circumstances.
  • Networking: Build and maintain a network of clients through referrals, community involvement, and professional associations.
Qualifications:
  • Education: A bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a related field is preferred.
  • Experience: Previous experience in financial services, insurance or business development is beneficial but not required.
  • Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to build trust and rapport with clients.
  • Licenses: Obtain necessary licenses, such as Series 6, 63, and state insurance licenses (training and sponsorship available).
Benefits:
  • Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and development programs, including sponsorship for advanced certifications.
  • Income Potential: Competitive compensation structure including performance incentives, with no ceiling.
  • Support and Mentorship: Comprehensive support from a dedicated planning team, marketing resources, and experienced mentors.
  • Work-Life Balance: Flexibility to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and goals.
  • Impact: Make a lasting impact by guiding individuals and families in your community towards financial security and success.
Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Sep Harandi is a Managing Director of NM and is not in legal partnership with NM, or its subsidiaries.

Flexible work from home options available.