Designer, Store and Visual Merchandising

Aquent Talent; New York (NY); On-site; USD 57,598 - 82,034; Part time

Job summary

A major beauty brand is seeking a Designer for Store and Visual Merchandising in New York. This mid-senior level role focuses on creating innovative retail design solutions that enhance the in-store experience. Candidates should have 3+ years in related fields, with strong skills in Adobe software and proven abilities in spatial concept design. This is a contract position with responsibilities spanning from design development to trend research.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional experience in industrial design or related field.
• Ability to conceptualize and execute captivating retail environments.
• Demonstrated understanding of materials, cost, and time requirements.

Responsibilities

• Support development and execution of innovative design solutions.
• Participate in creation of spatial design concepts across various environments.
• Execute development of merchandising and technical guidelines.

Skills

Conceptualize spatial designs

Strong organizational skills

Excellent verbal and written communication

Collaborative work style

Tools

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe InDesign

Adobe Illustrator

3D modeling/rendering program

Job description

Designer, Store and Visual Merchandising

Job Title:

Designer, Visual Merchandising and Store Design

Client Location:

New York, NY

Starting Date:

11/10/2025

Maximum Pay (per hour):

50.68

Position Overview

Join this major beauty brand's Store Design and Visual Merchandising team to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our in-store experience. As a Freelance Designer within the VMSD Innovation team, you will be instrumental in creating innovative visual concepts and retail design solutions that vibrantly bring the brand to life across all global retail channels.

This role is focused on developing new in-store concepts. You will champion creativity, scalability, and efficiency while working closely with the Design Director and the broader team to evolve the major beauty brand's retail environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design Development & Execution: Support the development and execution of innovative design solutions aligned with the Global Brand Strategy and the design intent of the Executive Director of SDVM. Manage multiple project phases—from concepting and design stages to obtaining approvals and seeing projects through to completion—under the guidance of the Design Director.
• Concept Generation: Participate in the creation and development of spatial design concepts across Free Standing Stores (FSS), Specialty Multi-Channel (SMC), and Department Store (DS) 360 environments.
• Documentation & Guidelines: Execute the development of detailed merchandising and technical guidelines for reference by regional design teams, ensuring consistency and accuracy.
• Technical Review: Review fixture/unit shop drawings and vendor flows to ensure all design details are accurate, adhere to Global Brand standards, and reflect an understanding of materials, cost, and time requirements.
• Research & Trend Spotting: Actively research current global culture, retail design, fashion, and art trends. Bring inspirational contributions and design ideas to weekly brainstorm sessions.
• Field Knowledge: Participate in seasonal store visits in the home region to maintain knowledge of new and trending store experiences.
• Team Support: Be open to flexing to support other areas of the team as needed (e.g., VM 360, events, etc.).

Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years of professional experience in industrial design, visual merchandising, store planning/design, event design, or a related field.
• Design Skills: Strong ability to conceptualize spatial designs and translate design direction into compelling retail environments. Familiarity with design and execution in FSS, DS, Open Sell, and SMC environments.
• Technical Proficiency: Highly proficient in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe Illustrator. Experience with a 3D modeling/rendering program of choice is required.
• Project Management: Demonstrated understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, cost, and time requirements for projects. Strong organizational skills and the ability to effectively multi-task in a fast‑paced setting.
• Collaboration: Must thrive in a collaborative environment, work both independently and closely under the management of the Design Director, and be able to receive input, discuss/defend design solutions, and remain flexible in finding optimal solutions.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to ensure alignment with the greater team and Operations.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Contract

Job function

Design

Industries

Personal Care Product Manufacturing