Position Overview
The Technical Designer, Footwear & Handbags will play an important role in supporting the development of Tuckernuck’s footwear and handbag collections, ensuring that products meet our standards for fit, construction, quality, and functionality. This role will work closely with Design, PD/Production, and external vendor partners to translate approved design concepts into technically sound, production-ready products.
The ideal candidate brings strong technical knowledge of footwear and handbag construction, materials, components, and manufacturing processes, along with exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and clear communication. This individual will be responsible for preparing and maintaining technical specifications, reviewing samples, evaluating fit and construction, and providing detailed, actionable feedback throughout the development process.
We are looking for a highly organized, self-motivated team player who can independently manage day-to-day technical responsibilities while working collaboratively and following the direction of Design leadership. The successful candidate will demonstrate sound judgment, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and an understanding of how to balance technical recommendations with the established creative vision and development priorities.
Core Responsibilities
Technical Development & Specifications
Translate approved design concepts, sketches, and reference samples into clear, accurate technical instructions for vendors.
Develop and maintain detailed technical specifications, tech packs, construction notes, and measurement standards for footwear and handbags.
Evaluate materials, leathers, fabrics, hardware, soles, linings, closures, and other components for suitability, durability, and functionality.
Identify potential construction or manufacturing challenges early in the development process and recommend practical solutions for design review.
Fit, Construction & Sample Reviews
Conduct technical reviews of footwear and handbag samples throughout development, assessing fit, proportions, construction, comfort, functionality, and overall quality.
For footwear, evaluate fit, lasts, sizing, comfort, and construction details, identifying issues and recommending adjustments.
For handbags, assess dimensions, structure, proportions, functionality, hardware placement, strap length, closures, and construction quality.
Prepare detailed, actionable sample comments and measurements for vendors, clearly communicating necessary corrections and revisions.
Independently communicate routine technical corrections to vendors within approved design parameters, seeking design approval for changes affecting aesthetics, silhouettes, proportions, materials, or overall product direction.
Track sample revisions, outstanding technical issues, and approvals, ensuring timely resolution before moving into production.
Support wear testing, durability assessments, and other product evaluations as appropriate.
Review pre-production samples to confirm alignment with approved specifications and construction details before bulk production.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner closely with Design to preserve the creative vision while ensuring products are technically feasible and commercially viable.
Collaborate with PD/Production to address technical construction issues and maintain alignment with approved product specifications throughout development and production.
Communicate technical requirements, sample feedback, and outstanding approvals clearly to internal teams and external partners.
Participate in sample reviews, fittings, and cross-functional meetings to support timely decision-making.
Independently manage assigned technical responsibilities, keeping Design leadership informed of progress, outstanding issues, and decisions requiring review.
Minimum Qualifications
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
Demonstrated technical expertise in footwear and handbag construction, materials, components, and manufacturing processes.
Experience developing and maintaining technical specifications, tech packs, measurement standards, and sample comments.
Thorough understanding of fit, construction, quality standards, and the transition from product development to bulk production.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple product categories, development calendars, and deadlines simultaneously.
Proactive, solutions-oriented approach, with sound judgment about when to take initiative and when to seek direction.
Exceptional attention to detail and a high standard for product quality.
Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to provide precise, actionable vendor feedback.
Strong collaboration skills and the ability to build productive relationships with Design, PD/Production, and external vendor partners.
Experience working directly with domestic and international manufacturing partners.
Proficiency in Google Workspace and Microsoft Excel, with the ability to learn new systems and tools quickly.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment while managing competing priorities.
Passion for fashion, product craftsmanship, and the Tuckernuck brand.
Entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
Compensation
Compensation for the role will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience. The estimated annual compensation for this role is $90,000-$115,000; classified as full-time exempt and not eligible for overtime. At Tuckernuck, we care about our team and offer benefits that support your health, growth, and work-life balance. This includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) with a company match, generous paid time off and holiday, paid new parent leave, a generous employee discount, and other great perks.
Tuckernuck Core Values
The successful candidate will also demonstrate the following core values that inspire the Tuckernuck team to make a difference.
Tuckernuck is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. Tuckernuck policy prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religious creed, sex, gender identity, marital or veteran status, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information or characteristics (or those of a family member), sexual orientation, pregnancy, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. It also prohibits discrimination based on a perception that anyone has any of those characteristics or is associated with a person who has or is perceived as having any of those characteristics. All such discrimination is unlawful. Tuckernuck offers reasonable accommodations in the hiring and employment process for individuals with disabilities. If you need assistance in this application or hiring process to accommodate a disability, you may request an accommodation at any time.
