Associate Designer, Visualization 3D & Innovation

Associate Designer, Visualization 3D & Innovation for Footwear, Apparel and Accessories

Vans is looking for an entry‑level Associate Designer to join the design and innovation team. You will create high‑quality 3D models, utilize AgenticAI, and lead the adoption of new visualization tools and design methods. You will work closely with internal innovation teams, merchandising, development, external vendors and co‑creators to optimize design and visualize future concepts.

• Leverage GenAI, Adobe, and CAD to generate innovative and advanced footwear, apparel, and accessories concepts based on new technology developments
• Leverage AgenticAI to optimize design visualization, innovation inputs/outputs, and deliver rich visual assets
• Collaborate with 3D modelers to generate high‑quality visuals/presentations from 3D assets for various departments
• Assist product teams across categories incorporating digital tools in their design process (e.g., Vizcom, Blender, Substance Painter, Photoshop)
• Research new technologies, materials, and applications to share with product teams

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education in Industrial Design, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or digital arts
• 1–3 years of experience and professional achievements in a related field
• Experience with texturing/rendering software (e.g., Rhino, Unreal, Blender) and proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Premiere or similar programs
• Skilled with business software, including Microsoft Suite, Figma, Figjam, etc.
• Strong teamwork skills and ability to build effective relationships with colleagues across design, development, merchandising, and other departments
• Self‑motivation and ability to work independently with some collaboration with the team, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently
• Periodic travel required (approx. 10–20%) (air travel)

• Experience with GenAI tools (Mid Journey, Claude, Copilot Suite, ChatGPT, Freepic, Vizcom)
• Experience with CAD/Render software (Rhino, Maya, Blender, Unreal)
• Experience with 3D printing files and outputs
• Experience in footwear and apparel design

Hybrid schedule: 3 days per week (more as needed) out of our HQ in Costa Mesa, CA.

Hiring Range: $60,480.00 – $75,600.00 USD annually. Eligible for additional incentive awards, including an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential.

Additional benefits are available to all eligible employees; detailed information will be provided during the hiring process.

All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us at  VF will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals to the extent required by applicable law.

Pursuant to all applicable local Fair Chance Ordinance requirements, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, VF will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.