The Footwear Design Intern will support the design team across men’s and/or women’s footwear categories while gaining hands-on experience in the footwear design process. This internship is designed for college students who are eager to learn, develop their skills, and contribute creatively in a professional design environment.

What You’ll Do

• Support designers with concept development for men’s and women’s footwear
• Assist with hand sketches, Illustrator line work, and digital renderings
• Help with color, material, and finish (CMF) research and inspiration boards
• Conduct trend, consumer, and competitive research
• Organize and maintain design files, samples, and seasonal archives
• Prepare materials for design presentations and team reviews
• Observe and assist in sample reviews and design meetings
• Collaborate with cross‑functional partners including product development and merchandising
• Complete special projects that support seasonal design initiatives

What You’ll Learn

• How footwear collections are developed from concept to sample
• Exposure to real-world design timelines and workflows
• Collaboration across design, development, and merchandising teams
• Professional design presentation and communication skills
• Portfolio-worthy projects and industry experience

Qualifications

Who You Are

• Currently enrolled in a college or university pursuing a degree in Footwear Design, Industrial Design, Fashion Design, or a related field
• Strong interest in footwear design for both men’s and women’s categories
• Basic proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
• Willingness to learn about footwear construction, materials, and fit
• Organized, detail‑oriented, and able to manage multiple tasks
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and eagerness to learn
• Comfortable receiving feedback and applying it to your work

Preferred (But Not Required)

• Coursework or projects related to footwear or product design
• Familiarity with 3D tools (Rhino, Blender, CLO, etc.)
• Interest in sustainability or inclusive design
• Passion for footwear, fashion, and brand storytelling

Additional Information

• Internship is intended for current college students
• Portfolio or work samples may be requested as part of the application

This position is not available to be performed in Colorado. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Cole Haan is committed to meeting the spirit as well as the letter of the law. We have been, and continue to be, committed to Equal Opportunity Employment and equal treatment of all qualified individuals -- regardless of race, color, sex, national origin, age, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, or any other factors that are not job related