Associate Footwear Designer-Topo Athletic

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. 

The Opportunity

At Topo Athletic, running is our passion and we believe great design starts with great people. As an Associate Footwear Designer, you’ll be part of a creative, collaborative team that shapes the future of Topo Athletic footwear. This role is perfect for someone who’s passionate about running and turning ideas into products that inspire confidence and style. You’ll work alongside seasoned designers, marketers, and merchandisers to bring fresh concepts to life—from initial sketches to final samples.

This is more than a design job—it’s a chance to grow your voice, sharpen your skills, and contribute to a brand that celebrates individuality and innovation. 

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll support the full product lifecycle, from trend research to technical execution, helping ensure every design meets Topo's high standards and resonates with our customers.

Creative Development

• Explore trends by gathering visual inspiration—tear sheets, screenshots, and mood boards.
• Sketch new concepts under the mentorship of senior designers.
• Create and update design specs, color-ups, and technical drawings.

Technical Execution

• Develop flat sketches and detailed tech/design packs with precision.
• Maintain accurate design data in internal systems.
• Review prototypes and update tech packs based on feedback.

Collaboration & Communication

• Share design updates with overseas development teams.
• Partner with Product, Sales, and Marketing teams to align on seasonal strategy.
• Attend fit sessions, document notes, and revise designs accordingly.

Presentation & Support

• Prepare presentation boards and materials for internal reviews.
• Assist with sample management, showroom setup, and product presentations.
• Create high-quality digital renderings using Photoshop and Illustrator.

Project Management

• Track design timelines to meet critical development deadlines.
• Support seasonal execution across departments.
• Participate in tradeshows, events, and occasional travel (domestic/international).

What You’ll Need

We’re looking for someone who’s creative, organized, and ready to grow in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Skills & Tools

• Strong sketching and CAD abilities with a solid grasp of design principles.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to apply trend and market research to design development.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented with strong time management.
• Professional presence and a customer-focused mindset.
• Receptive to feedback and eager to learn.

Work Environment

• On-site presence at our Framingham, MA headquarters 3–4 days per week (or as needed).

Qualifications

Minimum Experience

• 1+ years of relevant footwear or product design experience.
• Skilled in creating technical drawings, tech packs, CADs, and merchandising boards.

Minimum Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Footwear Design, or a related field—or equivalent work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong presentation and storytelling skills.
• Experience collaborating across departments in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable with shifting priorities and evolving project scopes.
• Experience using 3D CAD tools is a plus.

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.