TEMP Product Designer - Accessories & Soft Goods Packaging

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: TEMP Product Designer - Accessories & Soft Goods Packaging

Company: Kendo Brands, Inc.

Location: San Francisco, California, United States

Job Type: Full-time (Temporary)

Category: Product Design & Development

Date Posted: January 16, 2026

Experience Level: 5+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the end-to-end design and development of innovative soft goods and accessories packaging, ensuring strict adherence to brand guidelines and overarching marketing strategies.

• Conduct in-depth trend analysis specifically for soft goods, accessories, textiles, and construction techniques to inspire fresh, unique, and market-aligned concepts.

• Develop and present compelling design concepts for accessories and soft goods packaging, blending aesthetic appeal with essential functionality, portability, organization, and sustainability.

• Oversee the creation of technically accurate specifications for soft goods and accessories, ensuring production feasibility, high quality (durability, zipper strength, seam integrity), and cost-effectiveness.

• Foster robust collaboration with cross-functional teams including Marketing, Product Development, Sourcing, and Operations to align designs with product sizing, brand vision, cost targets, and sustainability goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on the design and development of soft goods and accessories packaging, which are distinct from formula-based beauty products. The emphasis on "non-product related items that elevate the brand experience" and specific examples like "makeup bags, cosmetic cases, brush rolls, travel pouches" indicates a need for a designer with expertise in materials, construction, and manufacturing processes unique to these items. The "Manager level" designation suggests a need for leadership in design projects and strong cross-functional influence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, design, and development of soft goods packaging and accessory projects from initial ideation through to final production, ensuring seamless integration with brand identity.

• Perform continuous market research and trend forecasting for beauty, fashion, and specifically accessories, focusing on materials, construction methods, and consumer preferences for items like bags, pouches, and promotional merchandise.

• Translate trend insights and brand objectives into innovative soft goods and accessory designs that meet functional requirements (e.g., organization, durability, portability) and aesthetic standards.

• Develop comprehensive technical specifications for soft goods, including detailed construction methods, material properties, color standards, and quality assurance criteria for elements like zippers, seams, and overall structural integrity.

• Collaborate extensively with Product Development, Marketing, Sourcing, and Operations teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, align with cost targets, meet sustainability objectives, and effectively communicate brand stories.

• Manage relationships and communication with external vendors specializing in soft goods manufacturing, providing clear design direction and feedback throughout the prototyping and production phases.

• Oversee the prototyping process for soft goods and accessories, ensuring accuracy in translating design intent into physical samples and managing testing protocols for durability, functionality, and user experience.

• Uphold and enforce brand guidelines across all soft goods packaging and accessory designs, ensuring visual consistency and reinforcing each brand's unique identity in the market.

• Effectively manage multiple design projects concurrently, ensuring timely delivery within defined project timelines and budget constraints, with a focus on efficient workflow and resource allocation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a strong technical understanding of soft goods manufacturing, including pattern making, sewing techniques, and material science, which is crucial for ensuring product quality and manufacturability beyond typical graphic packaging design. The mention of "hard goods expertise" for trims and hardware suggests a need for a designer who can bridge both soft and hard material applications within accessories.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School education required.

Experience: 5+ years of dedicated packaging and/or accessory design experience.

Required Skills:

• Deep passion for and comprehensive understanding of current trends in beauty, fashion, accessories, and merchandise, with a keen eye for the modern consumer, particularly Gen Z.

• Extensive knowledge of soft goods packaging materials (e.g., textiles, linings, closures), construction techniques (e.g., sewing, heat sealing), and manufacturing processes.

• Proficiency in visual communication, including strong sketching and rendering abilities to articulate design concepts clearly.

• Expertise in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, or equivalent design software, for creating detailed design assets and mock-ups.

• Proven experience in managing external vendors and collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams (Marketing, Product Development, Sourcing, Operations).

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, adhering to deadlines and budget constraints.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with hard goods manufacturing knowledge for trims, hardware, and zipper pulls.

• Familiarity with sustainability practices and materials relevant to soft goods packaging.

• Experience in the beauty or luxury goods industry.

• Ability to analyze consumer feedback and market data to inform design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "5+ years of packaging and/or accessory design experience" combined with "High School education required" suggests that practical, hands-on experience and a strong portfolio are prioritized over advanced academic degrees for this temporary role. The emphasis on specific soft goods expertise indicates that candidates with a background in fashion design, textile design, or industrial design with a strong focus on accessories will be highly valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of past projects showcasing end-to-end design and development of soft goods and accessories packaging, including makeup bags, cosmetic cases, travel pouches, and similar items.

• Demonstration of strong conceptualization skills with clear visual narratives for how designs address brand identity, functionality, and consumer needs.

• Inclusion of technical specification examples for soft goods, illustrating understanding of materials, construction methods, and manufacturing feasibility.

• Case studies highlighting collaboration with cross-functional teams and vendors, detailing the process from initial brief to final product, with an emphasis on problem-solving and achieving project goals.

Process Documentation:

• Visual documentation of the design process, including mood boards, sketches, 3D renderings, and technical drawings for soft goods.

• Examples of how prototyping and testing phases were managed, including any iterative design adjustments made based on feedback or performance.

• Evidence of adherence to brand guidelines and quality standards throughout the design lifecycle for accessories and soft goods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio should heavily emphasize practical application and a deep understanding of soft goods construction. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their process for developing a specific accessory or soft good packaging item, detailing material selection, construction challenges, and how they ensured quality and brand alignment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $50 - $60 per hour.

Benefits: As this is a temporary position, benefits may vary from standard full-time roles. Typically, temporary employees may be eligible for:

• Paid sick leave (accrued based on local regulations).

• Potential for overtime pay if applicable and approved.

• Access to Kendo Brands' employee discount programs (details to be confirmed).

• Opportunities for professional development through project experience.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime depending on project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided as $50-$60 per hour, with the final offer dependent on experience and location. This range is competitive for a temporary, manager-level Product Designer role in San Francisco. Benefits for temporary roles are often limited compared to permanent positions, so candidates should inquire directly about specific offerings.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Beauty Brand Development and Wholesaling (Luxury Goods Retail segment).

Company Size: Kendo Brands is part of LVMH, a global luxury group, suggesting a sophisticated and high-standard operating environment. The direct company size is not specified but operates as a significant entity within the beauty sector.

Founded: Kendo Holdings, Inc. was founded in San Francisco. The company's ownership by LVMH Moët Hennessy - Louis Vuitton signifies a connection to luxury, innovation, and brand excellence.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Packaging Department, specifically focusing on soft goods and accessories. This team likely works closely with broader Product Development, Marketing, and Sourcing functions.

• Reporting structure is likely to a Packaging Manager or Director, with the role itself being at a manager level in terms of project leadership and responsibility.

Methodology:

• Kendo emphasizes a "Can Do" spirit, encouraging optimism, creativity, and entrepreneurial approaches to problem-solving.

• Advocacy, Diversity, and Inclusion are core values, fostering safe spaces for all voices to be heard.

• Storytelling is central to building trust and relationships with brands, partners, and consumers.

• Resilience is valued, viewing change as constant and agility as strength.

• Product Excellence is paramount, with a consumer-first approach focused on creating high-quality, desirable products.

Company Website: https://www.kendobrands.com/ (Note: The provided URL was myjobs.adp.com/kendo/cx/job-listing which is an ADP job portal. The company website is typically kendobrands.com).

📝 Enhancement Note: Kendo's affiliation with LVMH implies a culture that values premium quality, brand storytelling, and innovation within the luxury space. The "Can Do" spirit suggests an agile and proactive work environment where employees are empowered to take initiative.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a temporary, Manager-level Product Designer role focused on a specific area (soft goods packaging and accessories). While temporary, it offers significant project leadership and scope within its domain.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a Manager or Director within the Packaging Department, with extensive collaboration across various departments like Marketing, Product Development, and Sourcing.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's work directly influences the consumer's perception of brand quality and luxury through the tactile experience of packaging and accessories. Successful designs contribute to brand equity, consumer engagement, and ultimately, sales performance by creating compelling product presentation and utility.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in soft goods design, material science, and accessory manufacturing processes, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain comprehensive understanding of the end-to-end beauty product development lifecycle by working closely with diverse teams.

• Brand Portfolio Experience: Contribute to the design of packaging for a diverse portfolio of well-known beauty brands, expanding professional portfolio and industry network.

• Potential for Future Opportunities: Successful performance in this temporary role could lead to consideration for future contract extensions or permanent positions within Kendo Brands or the broader LVMH network, should openings arise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Although a temporary role, the "Manager level" designation indicates significant responsibility and autonomy. Growth here will be in specialized design skills, project management, and understanding the intricacies of luxury accessory production within a large corporate structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Kendo Brands' office in San Francisco (425 Market St, 19th floor), indicating a professional, corporate office setting.

Office Location(s): San Francisco, California, United States. This location is a hub for innovation and business, offering a dynamic work environment.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is expected to be collaborative, fostering interaction with design, marketing, and product development teams.

• Access to standard design tools and software (Adobe Suite) will be available.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with team members and stakeholders will be plentiful, promoting knowledge sharing and rapid feedback loops essential for design iteration.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, likely 40 hours per week, with an on-site requirement in San Francisco. Standard business hours are expected, with potential flexibility depending on project deadlines and team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The San Francisco location suggests a fast-paced, potentially demanding work environment common in the tech and creative industries, balanced by a structured corporate approach due to the LVMH affiliation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A preliminary review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience in soft goods and accessory design, and alignment with Kendo's brand aesthetic.

• Portfolio Review & Discussion: A dedicated session where you will present and discuss your portfolio, focusing on relevant soft goods and accessory projects. Be prepared to articulate your design process, material choices, construction understanding, and problem-solving approach.

• Cross-Functional Interview: Interviews with key stakeholders from Marketing, Product Development, or Sourcing to evaluate collaboration skills, understanding of brand needs, and ability to integrate feedback.

• Manager/Director Interview: A final interview to assess overall fit with the team, leadership potential, and strategic thinking related to packaging and accessory design.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on 3-5 of your strongest projects that specifically highlight soft goods and accessory design, construction, and material expertise.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your design process, key challenges, solutions implemented (especially regarding materials and construction), and the final outcome.

• Show Technical Detail: Include examples of technical sketches, material swatches (if possible, or detailed descriptions), construction details, and quality considerations.

• Highlight Brand Alignment: Demonstrate how your designs successfully translated brand identity and met consumer needs for the specific accessory or soft good.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about trend interpretation, material sourcing, manufacturing feasibility, cost considerations, and sustainability.

Challenge Preparation:

• While not explicitly mentioned, be prepared for a potential design exercise or a case study discussion related to a hypothetical soft goods packaging challenge.

• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, especially when discussing technical aspects of soft goods.

• Understand Kendo's brand portfolio and be ready to discuss how you would approach design for brands like Fenty Beauty or Ole Henriksen.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review suggests that practical demonstration of skills and experience is paramount. Candidates should be ready to deep-dive into the technical aspects of soft goods and accessory design, not just the aesthetic presentation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop is explicitly required for visual communication, sketching, rendering, and creating design assets.

• 3D Design Software (Preferred): While not explicitly stated, experience with 3D modeling software (e.g., Rhino, SolidWorks, Blender) can be highly beneficial for visualizing and prototyping complex accessory designs.

• Project Management Tools: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira may be beneficial for managing multiple projects and workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• This role is not directly involved with CRM or automation systems, but understanding how packaging and accessories integrate into the broader product lifecycle and consumer journey is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for visual design. Any additional 3D design skills or project management tool experience would be a significant plus for demonstrating efficiency and advanced design capabilities.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• "Can Do" Spirit: Embracing challenges with optimism and finding creative solutions, essential for navigating the complexities of soft goods development.

• Advocacy, Diversity, and Inclusion: Contributing to an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, which can enrich design outcomes.

• Storytelling: Understanding how packaging and accessories can be powerful tools for communicating brand narratives and connecting with consumers.

• Resilience: Adapting to change and embracing the dynamic nature of the beauty industry and product development cycles.

• Product Excellence: A commitment to creating high-quality, desirable accessories and packaging that delight consumers and uphold brand standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working collaboratively with marketing, product development, sourcing, and operations teams to ensure design feasibility, brand consistency, and timely execution.

• Vendor Partnership: Maintaining open and effective communication with external manufacturers specializing in soft goods to translate design concepts into production realities.

• Feedback Integration: A willingness to receive and incorporate feedback from various stakeholders to refine designs and achieve optimal results.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are deeply embedded in Kendo's identity and are likely to be a significant factor in team dynamics. Candidates should demonstrate how they embody these values in their work and approach to collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality: Creating soft goods and accessories that are visually appealing while also being durable, practical, and cost-effective.

• Material Sourcing and Sustainability: Navigating the complexities of sourcing appropriate materials that meet quality, cost, and sustainability targets for accessories.

• Rapid Trend Cycles: Keeping pace with fast-moving trends in fashion and accessories within the beauty industry to ensure designs remain relevant and aspirational.

• Technical Manufacturing Nuances: Understanding and effectively communicating detailed construction requirements to vendors to ensure high-quality production of soft goods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Soft Goods Manufacturing: Gaining hands-on experience and knowledge of various textile properties, sewing techniques, and accessory construction methods.

• Brand Strategy Integration: Enhancing understanding of how packaging and accessories contribute to overall brand equity and marketing strategies for luxury beauty brands.

• Cross-Functional Acumen: Developing a broader perspective on the product development lifecycle by collaborating with diverse departments.

• Industry Exposure: Working with a portfolio of high-profile beauty brands provides significant industry exposure and portfolio enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents an opportunity to specialize in a niche area of product design within the beauty industry. The challenges are inherent to product development, requiring a blend of creativity, technical skill, and business acumen.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you designed a soft good or accessory that faced significant manufacturing challenges. How did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on technical problem-solving, material knowledge, and vendor communication.)

• "How do you stay current with trends in accessories and soft goods, particularly for the beauty consumer? Can you give an example of a recent trend you incorporated into a design?" (Assess trend analysis skills and ability to translate trends into practical designs.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Kendo Brands and our portfolio of brands like Fenty Beauty and Ole Henriksen?" (Demonstrate research into the company and its brands.)

• "How would you contribute to Kendo's 'Can Do' spirit and commitment to Product Excellence in this role?" (Align your work style with company values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of your relevant experience, then present 3-5 key projects, dedicating 5-7 minutes per project. Conclude with a summary of your skills and fit.

• Technical Focus: For each soft goods project, clearly explain: the objective, your design concept, material selection rationale, construction techniques employed, manufacturing considerations, and final results (including any quality or performance metrics).

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, renderings, and technical drawings. If possible, bring physical samples or high-resolution photos of prototypes.

• Storytelling: Frame your projects as solutions to specific problems or opportunities, showcasing your problem-solving approach and impact.

• Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about every aspect of your presented work, especially regarding materials, construction, and manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on your ability to demonstrate practical expertise in soft goods and accessory design. Be ready to discuss the "how" and "why" behind your design decisions, not just the aesthetic outcome.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this temporary Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP portal link.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your resume and portfolio are tailored to highlight your experience in soft goods and accessory design, emphasizing specific projects related to makeup bags, cosmetic cases, travel pouches, and similar items.

• Achievement-Oriented Resume: Quantify your achievements where possible, detailing project scope, impact, and your specific contributions to successful product launches.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, technical knowledge of soft goods, and understanding of brand alignment. Prepare your portfolio presentation, focusing on relevant case studies.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Kendo Brands' portfolio, their core values, and their position in the luxury beauty market. Understand the unique brand identities of their key brands.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.