Technical Design & Product Development Associate, International Handbags

General SummaryThe Product Development and Technical Design Associate is responsible for supporting the SMI Handbag Team throughout design and development lifecycle from concept through final sample. This position supports the Steve Madden International Handbag business.The responsibilities described below are considered essential functions of the role. This position is based in our NYC office and requires working on-site five days per week.Key ResponsibilitiesSupport the design and development process of handbags from concept through final sample, ensuring design intent and technical accuracy are maintained throughoutAssist in the preparation and ongoing updates of seasonal trend boards and color palettes to reflect evolving concepts and market directionCreate and maintain seasonal CAD decks, and update existing CADs and specification sheets in Egnyte as neededTrack the development progress and raw material status each season, ensuring timely follow-ups with cross-functional partners and factoriesHelp maintain seasonal development books by factory and organize all incoming and outgoing samples with accurate tracking of status and approvals across development stagesAble to manage multiple projects and deadlines with support and resources as neededPerform other duties and special projects as assigned Specific Job SkillsEssential duties include Technical designing Open and distribute daily packages; unpack, label, and manage incoming samples to ensure seamless processingCoordinate the shipment of samples and development materials to and from overseas factories and internal partners, ensuring timely and accurate deliveryAssist in the maintenance of technical packages, including construction details, measurements, and revisions in response to development changes or factory feedbackCommunicate basic technical updates and clarifications to factories, under the guidance of senior team membersMaintain seasonal material cards and maintain the organization of seasonal reference samples and archivesOversee the Handbag Design Archive Closet, ensuring all samples and materials are properly labeled, stored, and cataloged for future useSupport in organizing and preparing reference sample shipments to factories, categorized by season and collectionRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Accessories Design, Fashion Design, Product Development, or a related fieldMinimum of 1–3+ years of experience in handbag design, product development, or technical design preferredProficient in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Microsoft Office, and familiarity with PLM systems or digital file management (e.g., Egnyte)Excellent interpersonal, problem-solving, and organizational skillsExceptional organizational and time management skills; able to juggle multiple priorities in a fast-paced environmentStrong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and with overseas vendorsDetail-oriented with a proactive approach to problem-solving and workflow improvement.Passion for handbags and accessories, and an understanding of both the design and technical development processThe expected base salary for this position ranges from $26.00-$31.25/Hr. Ranges are based on various factors such as relevant skillset, training, years of experience related to the current job description, education, and our organizational structure. In addition to the base salary, Steve Madden offers a competitive benefits package that includes health and dental insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, 401K, paid holidays, a generous paid time-off policy, and career opportunities within a dynamic team.