Senior Handbag Designer - Trend-Driven NYC On-Site

Steve Madden; New York (NY); On-site; USD 100,000 - 115,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Life insurance

401K

Paid holidays

Generous paid time-off

Job summary

Steve Madden in New York is seeking a Sr. Handbag Designer to join our fast-moving junior accessories team.

This on-site role focuses on trend-driven design, concept-to-production development, and close collaboration with overseas factories and internal teams. The ideal candidate has 5-8 years of handbag design experience, strong CAD and Adobe Creative Suite skills, and a deep understanding of materials, specs, and prints.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Accessories Design, or related field preferred.
• 5-8 years of handbag design experience (junior market a plus).
• Strong Adobe Creative Suite skills (Illustrator, Photoshop, etc.).
• Ability to digitally sketch quickly and clearly.
• Understanding of technical specs, construction, and materials.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of print development and placement.
• Proactive, positive attitude, and a fast learner who thrives in a collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Trend & Market Analysis: Conduct seasonal trend and color research; stay updated on competitor activity, street style, and runway influences relevant to the junior market.
• Design Development: Create compelling and on-trend handbag designs from initial concept through to final production.
• Technical Documentation: Create detailed sketches, CADs, and comprehensive tech packs/spec sheets for development.
• Overseas Communication: Maintain daily communication with overseas factories to manage development samples, clarify technical specifications, and troubleshoot production issues.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with the production team for timely execution and the sourcing team to select appropriate materials, trims, and hardware.
• Surface Design: Design and develop prints and surface embellishments.
• Project Management: Manage multiple collections and projects simultaneously under tight, fast-paced deadlines.
• Able to manage multiple projects and deadlines with support and resources as needed.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Skills

Digital sketching

Technical knowledge of construction &/

Print design

Organization & multitasking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Accessories Design, or related field

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop)

Job description

Steve Madden in New York is seeking a Sr. Handbag Designer to join our fast-moving junior accessories team.

This on-site role focuses on trend-driven design, concept-to-production development, and close collaboration with overseas factories and internal teams. The ideal candidate has 5-8 years of handbag design experience, strong CAD and Adobe Creative Suite skills, and a deep understanding of materials, specs, and prints.