Vans: Designer, Women's Apparel

Vans•Costa Mesa, CA

31d•$82,080 - $102,600•Hybrid

About The Position

Now that you’ve found the job description, what’s next? Vans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding. We are driven by our mission to inspire and empower everyone to live “Off The Wall” – embracing the youthful spirit of freedom, non-conformity, and relentless progression. Yesterday’s “Off The Wall” moment is today’s new normal, and at Vans, we believe in constantly outdoing ourselves. Together with our communities across the globe, our vision is to push culture forward because we believe that the pursuit of progression never ends. We are constantly inspired by the future generation of positive catalysts within our community. So, before we get to the job details, take a minute to learn a little more about us – our values and our culture. If you can see yourself working side-by-side with a team of people who think and live “Off the Wall,” Vans just may be the place for you. To learn more about our values and our culture, visit Vans Careers or www.vans.com . What will you do? As a Women’s Apparel Designer, you will contribute to global apparel design through ownership of the complete design process within select categories. Working in a highly collaborative and creative environment, you will own a design category from conceptual direction through pre-production, including trend research, fabrications, styling, trims, technical renderings, and tech pack creation—all while adhering to the design and development calendar. This role reports into the Senior Women’s Design Manager and includes ownership of key categories, while also supporting broader initiatives and projects led by the Senior Manager as needed. You will use advanced design tools and technologies to develop styles that achieve accurate delivery, superior fit, and elevated construction. You will collaborate closely with Merchandising and Product Development to manage timelines and ensure product execution meets both creative and commercial goals. A strong design point of view and the ability to communicate and advocate for your ideas to peers and leadership are essential. As part of a leading global Footwear, Apparel, and Accessories brand, you will be expected to contribute to a shared design vision and maintain ongoing partnership with Men’s, Kid’s, and Accessories designers to ensure cohesion across categories. You must share our commitment to design excellence, passion for the Vans brand and empowering artistic expression through thoughtful, culturally relevant design.

Requirements

Deep understanding of global lifestyle, action sports, and youth culture markets
Strong presentation, listening, verbal, and written communication skills
Ability to effectively advocate for design concepts, aligning work with strategic and business priorities
Proficient in design techniques, processes, and apparel manufacturing—including design, development, fit, and production
Solid background in fabrications, including fibers, yarns, natural and synthetic materials
Skilled in computer design programs (e.g., Illustrator, Photoshop) with exposure to emerging Generative AI tools
Capable of independently managing the design process and collaborating with product development teams
Demonstrates strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
Contribute to a collaborative team environment focused on high performance and goal achievement
Committed to completing tasks and meeting product development calendar deadlines
Able to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and business guidelines effectively

Responsibilities

Contribute to seasonal design through market research, inspiration boards, concept development, tech pack creation, and fit-bringing visionary ideas that move the brand forward.
Own the full design process from initial sketches to final tech pack delivery.
Select materials, colors, and styling details with a strong understanding of cost components to ensure designs meet margin goals.
Develop both digital and physical assets including sketches, colorways, and storyboards.
Provide feedback and support throughout the graphic and print design process, applying prints and graphics with a balanced eye toward customer preference, style authority, and cohesive color lines.
Create compelling visual presentations and ensure accurate execution of all design details.
Present concepts and final designs during line reviews and product launches.
Participate in garment fittings to ensure product execution aligns with design intent and meets quality standards.
Collaborate closely with developers and merchandisers to refine prototypes and share accountability for final product outcomes.
Foster strong cross-functional teamwork and maintain focus in a collaborative environment.
Adhere to all key calendar milestones and deadlines throughout the development cycle.
Support design leadership with digital presentations, strategic documents, research, and physical presentation materials as needed.

Benefits

We offer extensive development and growth opportunities for your current and future positions, a competitive compensation package, and a strong benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and 401(k).
Our commitment extends beyond this and into your daily work life. We strive to foster a diverse and inclusive culture based on respect, connection, and authenticity. Our focus on DEI is at the foundation of who we are and what we do.

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