Assistant Designer, Keds

About Designer Brands

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.

ASSISTANT DESIGNER - KEDS

The Opportunity

Join the Keds Design team and help bring seasonal footwear collections to life. As an Assistant Designer, you'll partner with the Senior Designer and Design Director to support the design process from concept through production. This is a great opportunity for a creative, detail-oriented designer who is excited to learn, contribute ideas, and grow within a collaborative footwear design environment.

This is a hybrid role based in Burlington, MA. Team members typically work onsite one day per week, with occasional requirements for up to three days per week based on business needs, team collaboration, product reviews, and key milestones throughout the design and development process.

What You'll Be Doing

Design & Product Creation

• Support the development of seasonal Keds footwear collections.
• Create and update 2D CADs using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Develop colorways, material applications, and design updates for new and existing styles.
• Assist in translating concepts into production-ready designs.

Trend Research & Collaboration

• Research footwear, fashion, and consumer trends to inspire product development.
• Participate in concept reviews and design meetings.
• Partner with Product Development, Product Management, and Marketing teams throughout the design process.

Design Operations

• Maintain CAD files, tech packs, and design documentation.
• Assist with organization of the material library and seasonal design assets.
• Support key milestones and seasonal calendar deadlines.

What You'll Need

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong Adobe Illustrator skills; Photoshop proficiency preferred.
• Ability to interpret feedback and apply it to design work.
• Understanding of footwear design principles, materials, and construction.
• Strong interest in women's and children's footwear trends.
• Excellent organization, attention to detail, and time-management skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Qualifications

Experience

• 1-3 years of footwear design experience required.
• Experience in women's fashion footwear and women's sneakers preferred.

Education

• Bachelor's degree, or equivalent combination of education and experience, in Footwear Design, Fashion Design, Industrial Design, or a related field.

Portfolio Requirement

• Portfolio should demonstrate proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, design thinking, color and material application, and an understanding of the footwear design process.

• A portfolio showcasing 2D CAD sketches and footwear design work is required. We're excited to see your creative process, technical skills, and ability to bring concepts to life through thoughtful design and storytelling.

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.