Product Designer H/F

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer H/F

Company: Salomon

Location: Annecy, France

Job Type: Temps complet (Full-time)

Category: Product Design / Industrial Design

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a key contributor to the Snowboard and Alpine product lines, focusing on aesthetic innovation and functional design development.

• You will be instrumental in translating market trends and technical constraints into compelling product concepts and tangible prototypes.

• The position requires strong collaboration with cross-functional teams, including marketing, technical, and industrial departments, within an international environment.

• You will own the product design lifecycle from ideation through to market readiness, ensuring brand consistency and market competitiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within the Product Design function, specifically for Snowboard and Alpine equipment. The emphasis on "H/F" (Homme/Femme) indicates an inclusive hiring practice common in French job postings. The "temps complet" designation clearly defines it as a full-time position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the design process for new Snowboard and Alpine products, ensuring aesthetic appeal and continuous product renewal.

• Conduct thorough research and analysis of market trends, user behaviors, and technical limitations to inform design decisions.

• Develop design concepts from initial sketches through to final prototypes and samples.

• Champion and defend design choices effectively to internal teams, including marketing, technical, and industrial stakeholders.

• Collaborate closely with international industrial partners to ensure design feasibility and manufacturing quality.

• Manage the end-to-end product development lifecycle, from conceptualization to successful market launch.

• Maintain strict adherence to Salomon's brand design strategy and aesthetic guidelines throughout the product creation process.

• Translate user needs and market insights into innovative design solutions that enhance product performance and appeal.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on product design role with a clear product lifecycle ownership. The emphasis on defending design choices and collaborating with international partners indicates a need for strong interpersonal and communication skills alongside technical design capabilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Proven experience in product design, ideally within an agency or in-house corporate setting.

Required Skills:

• Excellent command of the product creation process, from ideation to final production.

• Advanced proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for visual design and concept development.

• Strong skills in 3D modeling and visualization tools for product rendering and prototyping (specific software not listed but expected).

• Fluent English for effective communication in an international business context.

• Demonstrated creative thinking, curiosity for visual culture, and a strong design aesthetic.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience in Snowboard, Ski, or other winter sports equipment design.

• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and materials relevant to sports equipment.

• Experience working with international manufacturing partners and understanding global market dynamics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a "Bac+5" (Master's level) degree and "expérience confirmée" (confirmed experience) suggests this is not an entry-level position, likely targeting candidates with 2-5 years of relevant experience. The emphasis on 3D tools and Adobe Suite points to a need for strong digital design skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a diverse range of product design projects, with a focus on Snowboard and Alpine equipment if possible.

• Clearly articulate your role and contributions within each project, detailing your design process from ideation to execution.

• Highlight your ability to translate market trends and technical requirements into elegant design solutions.

• Demonstrate proficiency with 3D modeling and visualization techniques, presenting compelling product renderings and prototypes.

Process Documentation:

• Present case studies that detail your approach to user research, concept development, and prototype iteration.

• Illustrate your understanding of the full product development lifecycle, including challenges faced and solutions implemented.

• Showcase how you manage design projects, ensuring deadlines are met and brand consistency is maintained.

• Provide examples of how you have used design to solve specific user problems or meet market demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Product Designer role, a strong portfolio is paramount. This section infers the need to demonstrate not just creative output but also a structured design process, technical proficiency, and collaborative integration into a product team.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Full-time CDI (Contrat à Durée Indéterminée) contract, offering job security.

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage, typical for French employment.

• Opportunities for professional development and training in design and sports industry trends.

• Employee discounts on Salomon and Amer Sports products.

• Potential for participation in company profit-sharing schemes (intéressement/participation).

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, likely 35-40 hours per week, as is common in France. Specific daily schedules will be defined by the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on French market data for similar roles and experience levels in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, adjusted for the specific industry and company prestige. Benefits are typical for a full-time CDI role in France and specific to a major sporting goods company.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sporting Goods Manufacturing, specializing in Outdoor and Winter Sports Equipment.

Company Size: Amer Sports (parent company) is a large global corporation with multiple brands. Salomon, as a key brand, operates with a significant team size, likely in the hundreds or thousands globally, with a substantial presence in Annecy.

Founded: Salomon was founded in 1947 in Annecy, France, bringing a rich heritage of innovation and connection to the Alps.

Team Structure:

• The design team is likely structured around specific product categories (e.g., Snowboard/Alpine, Footwear, Apparel).

• You will report to a Design Manager and work closely with Product Line Managers, R&D engineers, and marketing specialists.

Methodology:

• Salomon emphasizes innovation, performance, and a deep connection to mountain sports.

• The design process is likely a blend of creative exploration, user-centric research, technical feasibility, and rigorous testing.

• Sustainability is a growing focus, integrated into the design and development process.

• A data-informed approach, combined with strong intuition and market trend analysis, guides design decisions.

Company Website: https://www.salomon.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in mountain sports and innovation. The reference to diversity as one of Salomon's five values is important for understanding the work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Product Designer with 2-5 years of experience, indicating a mid-level contributor role. It's beyond an entry-level junior designer but not yet a senior lead or manager.

Reporting Structure: You will report to the Design Manager, who oversees the product design function for specific categories. This manager likely reports to a higher-level Director of Design or Product.

Operations Impact: As a Product Designer, your direct impact is on the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and market desirability of Snowboard and Alpine products. Successful designs contribute directly to sales performance, brand perception, and market leadership in winter sports.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in Snowboard and Alpine design, becoming a go-to expert in these categories.

• Cross-Category Experience: Transition to designing other product lines within Salomon (e.g., footwear, apparel, or equipment) to broaden skill sets.

• Senior Product Designer: Advance to a Senior Product Designer role with increased responsibility for leading design projects and mentoring junior designers.

• Design Management: With further experience and leadership development, potential to move into a Design Manager or similar leadership role.

• Innovation Labs: Opportunities to contribute to R&D and innovation initiatives, exploring new technologies and materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Product Designer at a company like Salomon typically involves deepening technical and creative expertise within specific product categories or expanding into broader design leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site at Salomon's headquarters in Annecy, France. This location is known for its collaborative and innovative environment, deeply connected to the outdoor sports community.

Office Location(s): Annecy, France (74). This is a hub for Salomon's design, marketing, and R&D activities.

Workspace Context:

• Expect a collaborative studio environment where designers work closely together, sharing ideas and feedback.

• Access to design tools, workshops for prototyping, and potentially testing facilities will be available.

• The workspace is designed to foster creativity and innovation, inspired by the surrounding Alpine landscape.

• Regular interaction with cross-functional teams (marketing, product management, engineering) is integral to the daily workflow.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule, likely Monday to Friday, with flexibility to accommodate project deadlines and collaborative needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Being based in Annecy, a renowned hub for outdoor sports innovation, suggests a work environment that is both professional and deeply connected to the brand's passion for mountain sports.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter will review your application and resume for basic qualifications.

• Portfolio Presentation: You will be invited to present your portfolio to the design team. This is a critical step where you showcase your process, creativity, and technical skills. Be prepared to discuss your projects in detail.

• Technical/Design Interview: Discussions focused on design methodologies, software proficiency, understanding of materials, and problem-solving abilities related to product design.

• Cross-Functional Interview: Meetings with marketing, product management, and potentially engineering leads to assess collaboration skills and understanding of market needs.

• Final Interview: Likely with the Design Manager or Director, focusing on cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and overall suitability for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills and experience relevant to Snowboard/Alpine design.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your design process, your specific contributions, the challenges you faced, and the final outcome. Use visuals effectively.

• Showcase Process: Include sketches, mood boards, CAD models, renders, and prototype photos to demonstrate your journey from concept to completion.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Emphasize your proficiency with Adobe Suite, 3D modeling, and any other relevant tools.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: If possible, show how you worked with other teams or integrated feedback.

• Tailor to Salomon: Research Salomon's current product lines and design aesthetic. If you have relevant winter sports experience, highlight it prominently.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential design challenges that might involve sketching concepts for a new product feature or responding to a specific design brief.

• Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, focusing on user benefits and market relevance.

• Think about how you would approach integrating new technologies or sustainable materials into product design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a central part of the application process for design roles. Candidates should prepare to articulate their design thinking and process thoroughly.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for 2D design, concept visualization, mock-ups, and graphic elements (Photoshop, Illustrator,

InDesign).

• 3D Modeling Software: Critical for developing product forms, engineering details, and realistic visualizations. Common tools include:

  • SolidWorks: Widely used for mechanical design and product engineering.
  • Rhino (Rhinoceros 3D): Popular for complex surfacing and freeform modeling.
  • KeyShot / Blender / Autodesk Fusion 360: For rendering, visualization, and sometimes modeling.

• CAD Software: For detailed part design and manufacturing specifications.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design tasks, but understanding how products are managed and sold through CRM systems can provide context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering software is crucial for modern product design. The specific tools may vary, but the ability to create detailed 3D models and high-quality visualizations is non-negotiable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Performance: A core value driven by the company's heritage in competitive sports. Designs must enhance performance.

• Innovation: Constantly pushing boundaries with new ideas, materials, and technologies.

• Passion for Mountain Sports: A genuine love for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and the outdoors permeates the company.

• Commitment to Sustainability: Increasingly integrated into design and manufacturing processes, reflecting responsible outdoor practices.

• Diversity: Actively working to create an inclusive environment for all employees.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with designers working closely with product managers, engineers, and marketing specialists.

• Open communication and constructive feedback are encouraged within the design team and across departments.

• International collaboration is a key aspect, requiring clear communication and cultural awareness.

• A proactive approach to problem-solving and idea-sharing is valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values are deeply intertwined with Salomon's identity as a leading mountain sports brand. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing aesthetic innovation with the technical constraints and manufacturing realities of sports equipment.

• Staying ahead of rapidly evolving market trends and consumer preferences in competitive sports.

• Collaborating effectively with diverse international teams, overcoming potential communication barriers.

• Integrating sustainable materials and processes without compromising product performance or cost-effectiveness.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to master new 3D modeling, rendering, or simulation tools.

• Material Science Workshops: Learning about new and innovative materials used in sports equipment.

• Industry Conferences & Trade Shows: Attending events like ISPO to stay abreast of industry trends and competitor activities.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced designers and product leaders within Salomon.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining deeper insights into marketing, R&D, and manufacturing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges reflect the dynamic nature of the sports equipment industry, requiring adaptability and continuous learning. Growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing design expertise and broadening industry knowledge.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your design process for a recent Snowboard or Alpine product. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and outcome.)

• "How do you stay current with market trends and user needs in the winter sports industry?" (Show research habits and industry awareness.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Salomon and its mission in mountain sports?" (Demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with non-design teams like marketing or engineering?" (Highlight teamwork and cross-functional communication.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically (Introduction, Problem, Process, Solution, Outcome, Learnings).

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, renders, and videos. Keep text concise on slides.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, highlighting your role and impact.

• Technical Details: Be ready to discuss the specific software and techniques you used.

• Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges, and how you would adapt your approach for Salomon's specific needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design skill but also an understanding of Salomon's brand, market, and collaborative environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and clearly showcases your relevant design projects, with a strong emphasis on your process and technical skills. Tailor your presentation to highlight any winter sports or outdoor gear design experience.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to highlight key skills, experience, and achievements directly related to product design, 3D modeling, Adobe Suite proficiency, and any relevant industry experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, project outcomes, and how you approach collaboration. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail and answer questions about your motivation for joining Salomon.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Salomon's brand, history, product lines (especially Snowboard and Alpine), design philosophy, and sustainability initiatives. Understand their position in the market.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Salomon or through the official application process.