Sr. Designer, Handbags

Steve Madden•New York, NY

3h•$100,000 - $125,000•Onsite

About The Position

Steve Madden is seeking a creative, detail-oriented Sr. Handbag Designer for its trend-driven junior-market fashion business. The role focuses on handbag design and development, with an emphasis on emerging trends, prints, and the fast-fashion cycle. It is based in the company's NYC office and requires on-site work. The designer will research seasonal trends and colors, develop handbag designs from concept through production, create sketches, CADs, and technical documentation, and communicate daily with overseas factories. The role also involves working with production and sourcing teams, creating prints and surface embellishments, and managing multiple collections and projects on tight deadlines. The expected base salary is $100,000–$125,000, depending on factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and organizational structure. Steve Madden offers health and dental insurance, life and disability insurance, a 401(k), paid holidays, paid time off, and career opportunities within a dynamic team.

Requirements

Minimum of 5–8 years of handbag design experience; junior-market experience is a plus.
Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator and Photoshop.
Ability to digitally sketch quickly and clearly.
Understanding of technical specifications, construction, and materials.
Strong organizational skills and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Knowledge of print development and placement.
Proactive, positive attitude and ability to learn quickly and thrive in a collaborative team.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Accessories Design, or a related field is preferred.
Experience in the junior market.

Responsibilities

Conduct seasonal trend and color research and monitor competitor activity, street style, and runway influences relevant to the junior market.
Create handbag designs from initial concept through final production.
Prepare detailed sketches, CADs, tech packs, and specification sheets for development.
Communicate daily with overseas factories about development samples, technical specifications, and production issues.
Partner with production to support timely execution and with sourcing to select materials, trims, and hardware.
Design and develop prints and surface embellishments.
Manage multiple collections and projects under tight, fast-paced deadlines, with support and resources as needed.
Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.