Footwear Designer - Contemporary Fashion

Company: KNS
Location: New York City
Posted on: February 17, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Footwear Designer – Contemporary Fashion Reports to: Director of Design & Development Location: NYC, New York About KNS Founded in 2001, KNS International is a leader in fashion footwear built for the modern consumer. What began as one of the nation’s first drop-ship–focused suppliers has grown into a premier footwear company behind a portfolio of distinctive, design-led brands. From concept to customer, everything happens in-house. Our design team creates every style from our Salt Lake City and New York City headquarters, while our Draper, Utah distribution center warehouses and fulfills orders directly to customers’ doors. Today, KNS International is proud to be home to footwear brands including Journee, Birdies, Taft, and Vance—each with a unique point of view and strong partnerships across the country’s largest e-commerce platforms. Together, we bring style, speed, and scale to meet consumers wherever they shop. Overview The Designer will support the creation and execution of seasonal footwear collections, combining strong trend awareness with technical product development expertise. This role spans concept development through production handoff, ensuring each style is aesthetically compelling, commercially relevant, technically sound and built to value and margin. Key Responsibilities Trend & Concept Development Conduct seasonal trend research using industry forecasts, competitive analysis, sales data, and consumer insights. Create clear, visually engaging seasonal design boards outlining trend direction, colors, materials, and silhouettes. Analyze existing assortments and make recommendations on carryover, updates, or exits based on performance and market trends. Design & Technical Development Design new styles aligned with brand direction, supported by strong understanding of proportion, materials, and fashion trends. Create detailed technical sketches and CADs using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Build and maintain accurate tech packs, including construction details, materials, and colorways. Demonstrate strong construction knowledge (cement, Strobel, injection, etc.) and apply it to product solutions. Problem-solve technical issues directly with overseas technicians and development partners. Manage spec sheets across proto, salesman, and confirmation sample stages. Source and evaluate materials, components, and processes that meet quality, fit, and cost requirements. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Product Development, Sourcing, Costing, and Production to ensure designs meet margin, quality, and feasibility expectations. Communicate daily with overseas offices to guide sample development and resolve issues quickly. Provide timely product information and sample updates to cross-functional teams, including Marketing. Process & Calendar Ownership Meet all seasonal calendar deadlines to ensure on-time development. Maintain organized records of samples, including proto rounds, revisions, and approvals. Apply value engineering where needed to support margin targets while preserving design intent. Support assessment of new innovations and technical opportunities with sourcing partners. Travel as needed to collaborate directly with factories on development, construction, and pattern refinement. Ensure all styles are fully finalized and approved before production handoff. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Design, Product Development, Fashion Merchandising, or related field or work experience equivalent. 2–4 years of experience in footwear design or product development. Strong understanding of design and development processes from concept through commercialization. Strong technical knowledge of footwear materials, construction, and manufacturing. Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and CAD tools. Strong problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and technical accuracy. Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment while meeting deadlines. Clear communication skills and a collaborative working style. Ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Working knowledge of textiles, leather, PU, and other footwear-related materials. High level of organization and meticulous attention to detail. Benefits PTO & Work-Life Balance - At KNS International, we understand the importance of taking time to recharge. We offer generous Paid Time Off (PTO), 17 paid holidays, and a flexible hybrid work environment that promotes balance. Our culture is rooted in collaboration, creativity, and genuine appreciation for our people. Health & Wellness - Your wellbeing matters. We provide comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage to support you and your family, along with short- and long-term disability plans, and paid maternity and parental leave. Retirement Planning - 401(k) with employer match and immediate vesting to help you build your future. Perks & Everyday Wellness - Enjoy a variety of perks designed to make your workday better, including: Free gym memberships Access to Impact Suites for mental health support A fully stocked kitchen with snacks and drinks Recreational break areas and a dog-friendly workspace Free shoes and discounts through our employee purchase program Growth & Development - We reward talent and encourage innovation — giving you room to grow and make an impact. Diversity & Inclusion - We’re committed to an inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and has equal opportunity to succeed. Location : NYC, New York — Candidates must be willing to relocate if not currently local Work Schedule : Hybrid role with in-office days on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. E04JI802obm4408egft

Keywords: KNS, West Orange , Footwear Designer - Contemporary Fashion, Design, Graphic Design & CAD , New York City, New Jersey