Associate Designer

Jenni Kayne is a California-based lifestyle brand that aims to empower an elevated approach to everyday living. Whether it’s our edited style ethos or coveted interiors sensibility, we work hard to create a world that's inviting and intentional. From our stores across the country to our operations and corporate teams, we believe in the power of a workplace that’s built on diversity and inclusion—where the varied voices and viewpoints of our community pave the way.

About This Role

The Associate Designer supports the Vice President of Design in the creation and execution of seasonal collections from concept through production. This role collaborates cross-functionally with Design, Product Development, and Technical Design teams to execute brand right product while contributing creative ideas, organizing the design studio, and ensuring alignment with timelines and cost targets.

Role and Responsibilities

As the Associate Designer, your primary responsibilities include the following:

Design & Development

• Support the Vice President of Design in the design and development of seasonal collections across all apparel categories
• Create and maintain all line sheets, trim boards, color palettes and other presentation materials.
• Research and sketch into seasonal ideas as directed by VP.
• Create CADs and mockups by hand and using Adobe Creative Suite
• Create technical sketches for tech handoff.
• Attend fittings and assist in evaluating samples and tracking changes.
• Manage and maintain design calendars, and key milestone deadlines
• Daily communication with vendors and factories.
• Source fabrics and trims aligned with design direction and cost targets.
• Organize and maintain fabric libraries, swatches, reference samples and trim archives.
• Support design room operations (shipping, photographing, filing)

Collaboration & Communication

• Work cross-functionally with Design, Merchandising, Marketing and Product Development teams
• Present ideas and updates clearly through visual and verbal communication
• Stay informed on market trends, competitive landscape, and customer preferences
• Support and mentor junior team members or assistants when applicable

Required Qualifications

• 3 - 5+ years of experience in apparel or fashion design
• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or related field
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign)
• Experience creating CADs, tech packs, and technical flats
• Experience with PLM systems and Microsoft Office
• Background in contemporary, denim, or ready-to-wear categories
• Understanding of market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape
• Solid understanding of garment construction, fit, fabrics, and washes
• Strong hand sketching and visual communication skills

Core Competencies

• Strong eye for color, silhouette, and trend interpretation
• Ability to design within cost parameters while maintaining aesthetic integrity
• Knowledge of fabrications, embellishments, dye/wash processes, and construction techniques
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Effective time management and ability to handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• Collaborative mindset with strong cross-functional communication skills
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and solution-oriented

Physical requirements:

Ability to sit, stand, bend, stoop, lift up to 30 lbs, and move between work areas throughout the day

Additional Note

This job description is not all inclusive. In addition, Kayne LLC dba Jenni Kayne reserves the right to amend this job description at any time. Kayne LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.  The annual base salary range for this position is $80,000 - 85,000. The base salary is determined by experience, education, skills, and location.