Color Designer

Reef Lifestyle LLC•Carlsbad, CA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

At REEF, we’re more than a premium footwear brand—we’re a community built on a deep love for the beach, surf culture, and creating high-quality products that fit active, adventurous lifestyles. For over 30 years, we’ve blended innovation with comfort, style, and versatility, making us a global leader in footwear. As industry pioneers, we are committed to setting the standard for environmental and social responsibility. We prioritize sustainable design—using water-based glues, recycled materials, and other low-impact innovations—while actively supporting organizations like Urban Surf 4 Kids and the Surfrider Foundation. Beyond our products, we empower our employees and brand advocates to give back, fostering a culture of purpose and impact. We are seeking a Color Designer to join our team and help shape the look and feel of the REEF footwear line through the creation of inspired color palettes, thoughtful material choices, and expressive print stories. Rooted in a deep understanding of color theory and trend forecasting, this role brings seasonal stories to life across both men’s and women’s collections, with a primary focus on men’s shoes and sandals. The CGM Designer will collaborate closely with the Design, Development, and Merchandising teams to create cohesive, elevated, and distinctly REEF product narratives. This is a full-time, exempt position. Employees are required to work a hybrid schedule. (3) Days in office at our HQ in Carlsbad, and (2) Days Remote.

Requirements

Strong understanding of color theory and its application in product design.
Experience in trend research and seasonal color planning.
Ability to interpret global footwear and fashion trends to identify opportunities for Reef footwear.
Skilled in designing repeat prints and patterns using a variety of techniques.
Interest in material innovation and application.
Highly organized and detail oriented.
Proficient in Mac based design tools, including Adobe Illustrator
Capable of generating storyboards and inspiration boards for design concepts and presentations.
Open to feedback and constructive criticism to achieve the best creative outcomes.
Effective communicator who contributes thoughtfully to team discussions and decision making.
Must be able to lift, carry and/or move up to 50 lbs.
While performing the duties of this position, the associate works primarily in an office environment and must adhere to all facility and safety rules and regulations.

Responsibilities

Assist the Product Design team in developing footwear design themes, color palettes, material stories and print direction.
Collaborate with Product Management to build cohesive merchandising flows for color, material and print.
Partner with Development and Materials teams to align design strategies with cost, pricing and timelines.
Help create effective presentation materials that clearly communicate the creative strategy.
Confidently and professionally present ideas, concepts and a distinct point of view in team settings.
Create highly detailed CAD’s in Adobe Illustrator, including efficient line art construction, coloring and technical callouts.