The People Brand · 3 weeks ago
Developer II (Footwear)
Irvine, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$110K/yr - $130K/yr
7+ years expThe People Brand is seeking a Footwear Developer II who will play a central role in transforming creative concepts into tangible footwear products. The role involves collaborating with various teams to ensure the execution of seasonal footwear lines that balance innovation with cost efficiency and quality.
ConsultingHuman ResourcesRecruitingStaffing Agency
Responsibilities
Manage the development and execution of seasonal footwear programs and SMU initiatives, ensuring flawless quality, fit, and brand alignment
Translate design concepts, CADs, and tech packs into execution-ready specs, facilitating prototype, fit, and sample stages
Collaborate with merchandising to validate consumer, channel, and account needs; ensure commercial viability and assortment relevance
Work alongside sourcing and vendor partners to ensure cost targets, material feasibility, and production readiness are met
Own sample reviews and physical fit sessions, identifying opportunities to enhance product fit, performance, durability, and aesthetic impact
Maintain meticulous development documentation, including sample tracking, deviations, and change control logs
Support preparation of SMUs with specialized graphic, color, and material treatments
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Product Development, Engineering, or a related field
Approximately 7-10 years of footwear development experience—ideally within performance, sneaker, or lifestyle categories
Proven track record in managing footwear product creation from concept through commercialization
Solid understanding of footwear construction, lasts, pattern development, materials, and manufacturing processes—especially for sneaker products
Demonstrated experience with color, graphic, and material application in SMU or seasonal styling programs
Strong communication and collaboration skills across design, merchandising, sourcing, and production teams
Detail-oriented with high organizational skills—adept at handling multiple projects, timelines, and samples simultaneously
Proficiency with development and PLM tools; familiarity with CAD and tech pack systems
Passion for sneakers, innovation, and performance-driven footwear excellence
Company
The People Brand
The People Brand offers talent acquisition, executive search, and staffing solutions for permanent and contract roles.
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageLeadership Team
Katie Scheibenhoffer
Partner, Talent Executive
Company data provided by crunchbase