Vans: Associate Designer, Visualization 3D & Innovation

Vans • Costa Mesa, CA

12d • Hybrid

About The Position

This is an entry-level role on the design and innovation team responsible for high-quality 3D models, agenticAI, and leading the adoption of new visualization tools and design methods. The role will collaborate with internal innovation teams, merchandising, development, and external vendors to optimize design and visualize future concepts, creating impactful representations of seasonal designs. This position reports to the Director of Digital Innovation, AI, and Innovation Center.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education in Industrial Design, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or digital arts.
• Experience with texturing/rendering software (e.g., Rhino, Unreal, blender, etc) and proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Premiere, or similar programs.
• Skilled with business software, including Microsoft Suite, Figma, Figjam, etc.
• Demonstrates strong teamwork skills and the ability to build effective relationships with colleagues across design, development, merchandising, and other departments.
• Exhibits self-motivation and can work independently with some collaboration with the team, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently.
• Periodic travel required (approx. 10-20%), including air travel.
• Bend, lift, open and move product and related office items varying in weight from 1 to 60lbs, depending on need.

Nice To Haves

• Preferred software experience: GenAI (MidJourney, Claude, Copilot Suite, ChatGPT, Freepic, Vizcom, and other AI tools), CAD/Render (Rhino, Maya, Blender, Unreal, etc.).
• Experience with 3D printing files and outputs is a plus.
• While the focus will be on AI optimization and visualization, experience with footwear and apparel is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Leverage GenAI, Adobe, and CAD to generate innovative and advanced footwear, apparel, accessories concepts based on new technology developments.
• Leverage AgenticAI to optimize design visualization, innovation inputs/outputs, and deliver rich visual assets.
• Collaborate with 3D modelers to generate high-quality visuals/presentations from 3D assets for various departments.
• Assist product teams in various categories incorporating digital tools in their design process (vizcom, blender, substance painter, photoshop, etc.).
• Research new technologies, materials, and applications to share with the product teams.

Benefits

• Eligible for additional compensation awards that may include an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential.
• General overview of benefit programs offered, including this year's medical plan rates available on www.MyVFbenefits.com.
• Detailed information on benefits will be provided during the hiring process.
• Equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees.
• Consideration for employment for qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records, pursuant to applicable local Fair Chance Ordinance requirements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree