Associate Product Designer

PetSmart • Phoenix, AZ

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

This role will be responsible for supporting the design team and developing innovative solutions for a variety of product categories; particularly in dog and cat product. As an Associate Product Designer, you’ll participate in trend and market research and be responsible for translating those learnings into fun, creative, and unique designs, which you will take from concept stage to sample stage.
Working in a fast paced corporate environment requires a creative thinker with a passion for design who is able to effectively communicate their ideas and receive feedback and who is comfortable working on several different projects at once, adhering to calendar dates and milestones. Must be proficient at following processes.
Candidate will work under the supervision of the Manager and will work collaboratively and cross-functionally with cross-functional partners to ensure objectives are met. Also, key to this role is a positive attitude, versatility, flexibility, creativity, and aesthetic sensibility.
Please submit a portfolio/work samples with your application.

Requirements

• Demonstrates proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite – particularly Adobe Illustrator
• 3-5 years professional experience designing and developing products for mass production
• Ability to translate 2D artwork into specification via AI format for production
• Sketching, brainstorming, ideation skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to learn and receive feedback from colleagues
• Must be a self-motivated team player with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Basic knowledge of mass manufacturing techniques in soft and hard goods
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Bachelor’s degree in design or related field
• 3-5 years professional experience designing and developing products for mass production
• Experience working in a team environment, good interpersonal skills
• This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and face-to-face interaction with colleagues, leaders, and/or clients.
• Being in the office ensures access to leaders, cross-functional partners, and resources necessary to make timely decisions and drive results.
• On-site presence in accordance with our FlexSmart policy supports our culture of innovation, mentorship, and engagement, which is integral to our success in developing the best team.

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with overseas vendors and travel to Asia is a plus
• Illustration skills and/or experience designing toys (plush and/or molded) is a plus
• Apparel experience is a plus
• Experience with a workflow management system is a plus
• Experience designing into cost structures a plus

Responsibilities

• Supports product design team by participating in competitive retailing, developing trend and concept boards, being flexible and providing support on all projects and product categories when needed
• Create print, pattern and graphics for seasonal product collections
• Manages the Points of Measurement process, monitoring, evaluating and consulting cross-functional partners
• Manages multiple projects at a time from concept through pre-production and manages the full scope of deliverables, including design specifications and technical drawings
• Communicates and presents designs to cross-functional partners and all levels of leadership
• Works closely with cross-functional partners to provide adequate information and/or sample feedback
• Participates/presents in weekly design meetings; aligning and preparing content for design reviews
• Conceptualizes multiple creative solutions and design options to address project strategies and product needs within given cost parameters
• Drives innovation by following the latest trends and using those learnings to develop creative concepts that translate into production-ready 3D products
• Collaborates with cross-functional partners, including brand, buying, legal, and quality assurance teams to make sure objectives are met

Benefits

• Pet-friendly environment, bring your pets to work and enjoy the on-site dog park!
• On-Site Events & Adoptions, enjoy community-building opportunities, including pet adoption days, seasonal celebrations, family events, art events, & holiday festivals
• “Top Dog” gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists, personal trainers, and wellness spaces
• “Sit & Stay” Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options, snacks, & more
• “Lil Paws” NAEYC-accredited onsite childcare facility providing high-quality early education
• Paid Volunteer Opportunities to spend time doing good for causes close to heart
• Print Center and Business Services, Dry Cleaning, Mother's Rooms, Sustainable Infrastructure & more

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees