Product Designer - Hosiery & Accessories

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer - Hosiery & Accessories

Company: Implus

Location: Durham, NC

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Design & Development

Date Posted: July 24, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the end-to-end product design process for hosiery and accessory categories, ensuring alignment with market trends and consumer needs.

• Translate conceptual ideas into tangible product designs, focusing on innovation in materials, aesthetics, and functionality relevant to the hosiery and accessories market.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including merchandising, marketing, and manufacturing, to ensure design feasibility and successful product launches.

• Develop detailed product specifications, mockups, and prototypes to communicate design vision and technical requirements effectively.

• Maintain a strong understanding of the competitive landscape, emerging trends, and consumer preferences within the hosiery and accessories sectors to inform design strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided job description is very brief and focuses heavily on the "what" without the "how" or "why." This enhancement infers a typical Product Designer role within a consumer goods company specializing in apparel accessories, focusing on the standard responsibilities and expectations for such a position. The core focus is on the design and development lifecycle of physical products.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, sketch, and develop innovative product designs for a range of hosiery and accessory items, from initial ideation to final product.

• Create detailed technical drawings, 3D models, and specifications (e.g., Bill of Materials, construction details) for manufacturing partners.

• Conduct market research, trend analysis, and competitive benchmarking to identify design opportunities and inform product development strategies.

• Prepare and present design concepts, prototypes, and final product proposals to internal stakeholders, including management and merchandising teams.

• Work closely with sourcing and production teams to ensure designs are manufacturable, cost-effective, and meet quality standards.

• Refine designs based on feedback from product testing, consumer insights, and manufacturing constraints.

• Develop and maintain product design documentation, including mood boards, color palettes, material libraries, and style guides.

• Ensure all designs comply with relevant safety regulations and brand guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the title "Product Designer - Hosiery & Accessories," the responsibilities have been elaborated to cover the typical scope of a product designer in a consumer goods environment. This includes ideation, technical specification, market research, cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring manufacturability, all tailored to the specific product categories.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, or a related field.

Experience: 2-5 years of professional experience in product design, with a specific focus on hosiery, apparel accessories, or related consumer goods.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to generate creative and innovative product concepts.

• Proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and ideally 3D modeling software (e.g., SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360).

• Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and construction techniques relevant to hosiery and accessories.

• Excellent sketching and visualization skills to communicate design ideas effectively.

• Ability to conduct market research and analyze trends.

• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CAD software for detailed technical drawings and 3D rendering.

• Knowledge of color theory, textiles, and material science.

• Familiarity with sustainability practices in product design.

• Experience working with overseas manufacturing partners.

• Understanding of branding and marketing principles in the consumer goods sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Qualifications" section in the original input was sparse. This enhancement provides a comprehensive list of typical educational backgrounds, experience levels, and specific technical and soft skills expected for a Product Designer in this niche. The preferred skills are added to differentiate candidates and align with industry best practices.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of design projects showcasing the product design lifecycle from concept to completion.

• Emphasis on projects related to apparel, accessories, hosiery, or similar consumer goods.

• Detailed case studies that illustrate problem-solving, design thinking, and the rationale behind design decisions.

• Visual documentation of sketches, 3D models, prototypes, and final product imagery.

• Evidence of understanding user needs, market trends, and manufacturing considerations. Process Documentation:

• Examples of design briefs or project scopes that guided the design process.

• Documentation of research and analysis methods used (e.g., trend reports, competitive analysis).

• Prototypes or pre-production samples that demonstrate technical execution.

• Case studies detailing how design challenges were overcome and how user feedback was incorporated.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design role, a portfolio is paramount. This section outlines what a strong design portfolio should contain, specifically tailored to product design and the given product categories. It emphasizes demonstrating the design process, problem-solving, and the ability to execute ideas into tangible products.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $85,000 per year (estimated)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick days, and holidays.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with company match.

• Employee discounts on Implus products.

• Opportunities for professional development and training.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (local time).

📝 Enhancement Note: The original input lacked salary and benefits information. Based on the "2-5 years" experience level, the "On-site" work arrangement in Durham, NC, and typical compensation for Product Designers in the US consumer goods sector, a salary range has been estimated. Standard benefits for a full-time position have also been included.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sporting Goods, Health & Wellness, Consumer Products

Company Size: Implus is a significant player in the consumer goods market, with a considerable employee base suggesting a well-established structure. (Company size information was not directly provided, inferred from company description and common knowledge of Implus).

Founded: Implus has a history of growth and acquisitions, indicating a dynamic and evolving company culture. (Specific founding date not provided, but Implus has been operating for many years).

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely operates within a broader Product Development or Merchandising department.

• Designers collaborate closely with Merchandisers, Product Managers, Sourcing Specialists, and Marketing teams.

• Reporting structure would typically involve a Design Manager or Director of Product Development. Methodology:

• Data-driven insights from market research and consumer feedback inform design directions.

• Agile or iterative design processes may be employed to adapt to market changes.

• Focus on delivering high-quality, marketable products that meet consumer demands and business objectives.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Company culture and structure details were minimal. This section infers standard practices for a consumer goods company like Implus, focusing on how a Product Designer would integrate into their operations and collaborate with other departments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Product Design Career Level: This role represents a mid-level Product Designer position. It requires independent contribution and the ability to manage projects from ideation through to production-ready stages. The designer is expected to be a key contributor to product line development and innovation.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report to a Design Lead, Manager, or Director within the Product Development or Merchandising division. They will likely work in a collaborative team environment, interacting with various departments across the organization.

Design Impact: This role has a direct impact on the company's product portfolio and market competitiveness. Successful designs contribute to brand perception, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, revenue generation for the hosiery and accessories segments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific product categories like performance hosiery or technical accessories.

• Senior Designer/Lead Designer: Progress to leading design projects, mentoring junior designers, and taking on more complex product challenges.

• Design Management: Move into leadership roles, overseeing design teams and strategic product development initiatives.

• Cross-functional Roles: Transition into roles in Merchandising, Brand Management, or Product Management, leveraging design expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Experience Level" as "2-5 years" suggests a mid-level role. This section elaborates on the typical career path and impact expected for someone at this level within a product design function, highlighting opportunities for advancement and skill development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in a corporate office environment located in Durham, NC. This suggests a professional setting with typical office amenities and collaborative workspaces.

Office Location(s): 2001 TW Alexander Drive, Durham, NC 27709. This location is within a business park or commercial area, likely providing accessibility via car and public transport options in the greater Research Triangle Park region.

Workspace Context:

• Designers will likely have access to a dedicated workspace, potentially with design software, hardware, and material samples.

• The environment is expected to foster collaboration, with opportunities for brainstorming sessions, design reviews, and team meetings.

• Access to prototyping tools or partnerships with prototyping services may be available.

Work Schedule: A traditional Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM schedule is standard, allowing for predictable work hours and integration into the company's operational flow. Occasional flexibility may be required for project deadlines or urgent requests.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" work arrangement and specific address indicate a physical office location. This section describes the typical office environment and workspace expectations for a designer in such a setting, considering collaboration and access to resources.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A brief phone or video call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss your design portfolio. Expect to walk through your projects, explaining your process, design choices, and the outcomes.

• Technical/Design Interview: An interview with the hiring manager and potentially other designers or stakeholders. This may include design challenges, problem-solving scenarios, and discussions about your technical skills and experience.

• Cross-functional Interviews: You might meet with individuals from merchandising, marketing, or production to assess collaboration skills and understanding of business needs.

• Final Interview: A meeting with a senior leader to discuss overall fit, long-term potential, and finalize any offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Quality over quantity.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your process, your role, the challenges, and the solution/outcome. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Relevance: Emphasize projects related to hosiery, accessories, or similar consumer goods. Showcase your understanding of materials and manufacturing for these categories.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Anticipate questions about your design decisions, your ability to take feedback, and how you approach innovation.

• Digital Format: Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible digitally (e.g., PDF, personal website) and loads quickly.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for a design challenge that might involve sketching concepts for a new accessory or redesigning a piece of hosiery based on specific criteria.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely. Focus on problem-solving and creative ideation.

• Consider how your design would fit within the Implus brand and target market.

📝 Enhancement Note: Since this is a design role, the application process heavily relies on the portfolio. This section provides detailed advice on preparing the portfolio, what to expect during interviews, and how to approach potential design challenges, all tailored to a product design position.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Software:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for 2D design, illustration, and image manipulation (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign).

• 3D Modeling/CAD Software: Proficiency in tools like SolidWorks, Rhino, Fusion 360, or Blender is highly desirable for creating detailed product models and technical drawings.

• Prototyping Tools: Familiarity with digital prototyping software (e.g., Figma, Adobe XD for UI/UX if applicable, though less likely for physical products) or physical prototyping methods.

Visualization & Presentation:

• Keynote/PowerPoint: For creating compelling design presentations.

• Rendering Software: Tools for creating realistic product visualizations (e.g., Keyshot, V-Ray if integrated with CAD).

Collaboration & Project Management:

• Project Management Tools: Familiarity with tools such as Asana, Trello, Jira, or Monday.com for task tracking and workflow management.

• Cloud Storage/File Sharing: Platforms like Google Drive, Dropbox, or SharePoint for collaborative document management.

• Communication Platforms: Slack, Microsoft Teams for daily team communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the typical software and technology stack a Product Designer would use. It differentiates between primary design tools, visualization software, and collaboration platforms, which are crucial for a designer's workflow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Design Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A drive to push boundaries and develop unique, market-leading products.

• User-Centricity: Designing with a deep understanding of the end-user's needs, preferences, and experiences.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to producing well-designed, durable, and aesthetically pleasing products.

• Collaboration & Communication: Valuing teamwork, open dialogue, and constructive feedback to achieve collective goals.

• Problem-Solving: Approaching design challenges with analytical thinking and a solutions-oriented mindset.

Collaboration Style:

• Expected to be highly collaborative, working closely with cross-functional teams.

• Openness to feedback and iterative design processes is key.

• Emphasis on clear communication of design intent and technical specifications.

• Team members likely share knowledge and best practices, fostering a learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific company values weren't listed, typical values for a product design team within a consumer goods company are inferred. These focus on creativity, user focus, collaboration, and quality, which are essential for successful product development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Commercial Viability: Designing products that are innovative yet manufacturable within budget and market constraints.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Rapidly evolving fashion and consumer trends in hosiery and accessories require constant adaptation.

• Cross-functional Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders (marketing, sales, production) are aligned with the design vision and requirements.

• Material and Manufacturing Constraints: Working within the limitations of available materials and production capabilities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to master new CAD or rendering software.

• Material Science Workshops: Deepen knowledge of textiles, polymers, and manufacturing techniques.

• Trend Forecasting Seminars: Stay updated on industry trends through attending webinars, conferences, or subscribing to industry publications.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from senior designers or product development leaders.

• Exposure to New Product Categories: Potential to work on a diverse range of accessories beyond initial specialization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges inherent in product design roles, especially in fast-paced consumer goods, and outlines avenues for professional growth and skill enhancement relevant to a designer's career trajectory.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a product you designed that you are particularly proud of. What was the challenge, your process, and the outcome?" (Focus on demonstrating problem-solving, design thinking, and impact.)

• "How do you stay updated on fashion and accessory trends?" (Showcase your research habits and industry awareness.)

• "Imagine we want to launch a new line of sustainable performance socks. What would be your initial design considerations?" (Assess your approach to innovation, materials, and market needs.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or conflicting feedback on your designs?" (Evaluate your collaboration and adaptability.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Implus and our product offerings?" (Demonstrate your research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you see your design style fitting with our brand aesthetic?" (Show your understanding of brand identity.)

• "Describe your ideal work environment and team collaboration style." (Assess cultural fit.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, starting with an overview, then diving into 2-3 key projects. For each project, follow the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, sketches, and renderings. Keep text minimal on slides.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story about each project. Explain your thought process, the "why" behind your decisions, and the impact of your design.

• Technical Details: Be prepared to discuss materials, manufacturing feasibility, and cost considerations if asked.

• Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, challenges faced, and how you approach problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: Tailored interview questions and preparation strategies are crucial for design roles. This section provides specific examples of questions candidates might face, focusing on design process, technical skills, and cultural fit, along with actionable advice for presenting their portfolio effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Paycom link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience and skills directly relevant to product design, hosiery, and accessories. Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased product appeal by X%" or "Contributed to Y new product launches").

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is polished, up-to-date, and showcases your best work, especially projects related to apparel or accessories. Include case studies that demonstrate your design process.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and answering common interview questions, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating your problem-solving abilities.

• Research Implus: Understand the company's mission, brand values, and current product lines to articulate your interest and cultural fit.

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