Associate Designer

Russell Tobin's client a retail company is hiring a Associate Designer in New York, NY.

Associate Designer – Intimates/Lingerie

Location: New York, NY (Hybrid – In Office Monday, Wednesday, Thursday; Remote Tuesday & Friday)

Duration: Contract (Potential for Extension)

Hours: 45+ hours per week

Rate: $40 -$43/hour

Overview

We are seeking a highly talented Associate Designer with strong experience in sexy lingerie/intimates to join a fast-paced, fashion-driven design team. This role is ideal for someone at the associate or senior associate level who brings a refined design eye, exceptional hand sketching ability, and strong technical CAD skills.

This position supports a fashion-forward, glamour-driven collection that prioritizes elevated fabrics, trim details, flattering silhouettes, and cohesive storytelling across the assortment. The ideal candidate understands corsetry construction, the female form, and how to translate trend into commercially successful product.

This is not an entry-level opportunity. Candidates must have hands-on design experience in lingerie/corsetry and demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing bras, panties, and fashion lingerie.

Key Responsibilities

• Create brand-right, commercially viable designs aligned with seasonal concepts and business strategy
• Develop seasonal collections with a focus on style, fit, fabric, and trim detailing
• Produce strong hand sketches and detailed technical CADs
• Execute tech packs, specifications, and fit updates as collections evolve
• Attend and support weekly fittings to ensure execution of design intent
• Conduct ongoing trend and market research across multiple platforms
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Merchandising, Product Development, Marketing, and vendors
• Maintain accurate colored line sheets and PLM systems as the source of truth
• Prepare materials for internal presentations and milestone meetings
• Support custom projects and special design initiatives as needed
• Manage timelines with strong attention to detail and proactive problem-solving

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Design or related field
• 3+ years of design experience in a retail environment
• Direct experience in lingerie/corsetry construction (required)
• Strong understanding of female body silhouette and intimate apparel fit
• Excellent hand sketching skills
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign
• Experience creating detailed tech packs and CAD flats
• Strong commercial fashion eye and detail-oriented styling sensibility
• Highly organized, collaborative, and accountable
• Passionate, dynamic, and team-oriented personality
• Ability to work with speed and agility in a fast-paced environment
• PLM experience preferred
• Moderate domestic travel may be required

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience designing sexy, fashion-forward lingerie (not sleepwear-only or casual-focused backgrounds)
• A portfolio that demonstrates creativity, trim and fabric sensitivity, and elevated styling
• Strong balance of artistic talent and technical execution
• Someone who feels ownership over their category and thrives in collaborative settings
• Personality fit: dynamic, kind, humble, trustworthy, and passionate

Hybrid Work Structure

This role requires in-office presence Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday in NYC. Remote work is available Tuesday and Friday, with flexibility required for milestone meetings and fittings. Fully remote candidates will not be considered.

Benefits that Russell Tobin offers:

Russell Tobin offers eligible employee’s comprehensive healthcare coverage (medical, dental, and vision plans), supplemental coverage (accident insurance, critical illness insurance and hospital indemnity), a 401(k)-retirement savings, life & disability insurance, an employee assistance program, identity theft protection, legal support, auto and home insurance, pet insurance, and employee discounts with some preferred vendors.