The Senior Footwear 3D Designer & Prototyper is an integral member of the Product Creation team. This role supports the conceptualization, visualization, and rapid prototyping of footwear concepts that reflect Cole Haan’s design ethos and communicate design intent across teams. The position blends advanced digital modeling with hands-on prototyping, helping translate ideas into physical form quickly and effectively.
***Please submit application with link to online portfolio or an attachment with work samples***
CORE ACCOUNTABILITIES:
- Translate 2D design concepts and sketches into highly detailed 3D footwear models.
- Convert hand-rendered ideas into functional prototypes and experimental concepts with the creative ability to iterate additional designs based on given themes.
- Rapidly produce prototypes using digital fabrication tools including 3D printing, scanning, and laser cutting.
- Support digital pattern making, scanning, and new last creation.
- Collaborate closely with designers, development teams, and engineering partners to refine form, function, and manufacturability.
- Partner with the Cole Haan marketing team to create 3D assets that support animation, visualization, and storytelling.
- Explore new materials, structures, and fabrication techniques through iterative prototyping.
- Maintain and manage the prototyping lab, including equipment operation, servicing, and materials inventory.
- Track project progress and help move initiatives forward across multiple stakeholders.
- Support communication and coordination across the product creation team.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design or related design/modeling field
- 7+ years experience in digital design, 3D modeling, or product prototyping (footwear experience strongly preferred)
- Mastery of digital design software such as Rhino, ZBrush, Maya, Shoemaster, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop
- Experience preparing models for 3D printing and digital fabrication
- Strong understanding of footwear construction, materials, and product development
- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced design environment
- Strong visual sensibility with a passion for innovation and craftsmanship
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Portfolio demonstrating digital modeling, prototyping, and product visualization capabilities
Preferred
- Hands-on footwear prototyping experience including pattern making, mold making, and soft goods construction
- Experience operating laser cutting and digital fabrication equipment
- Familiarity with footwear tech packs and blueprint creation
- Knowledge of emerging digital creation tools and manufacturing technologies
***Please submit application with link to online portfolio or an attachment with work samples***
This position is not available to be performed in Colorado.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Cole Haan is committed to meeting the spirit as well as the letter of the law. We have been, and continue to be, committed to Equal Opportunity Employment and equal treatment of all qualified individuals -- regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, or any other factors that are not job related.
