Associate Designer

Associate Designer – Shade Critters / 8 Oak Lane

Company: 8 Oak Lane, LLC
Job Type: Full-Time

Objective

The Associate Designer will support the design team with daily responsibilities of new product development—from concept to market delivery—while contributing innovative ideas, trend research, and creative development that align with each brand’s identity.

Responsibilities

Product Design & Development

• Contribute to the creative process through trend and market research across digital platforms, direct research, and competitive shopping.
• Sketch and develop new designs; create accurate tech packs for overseas factory partners.
• Design repeat vector prints and placement graphics using Adobe Illustrator.
• Manage fit approvals and communicate with factories to ensure accurate production.
• Work with sales teams to coordinate trade show sample needs and timelines.
• Assist with product marketing artwork, including hang tags, woven labels, and packaging.

Communication & Collaboration

• Clearly and consistently communicate with overseas factory partners to ensure timely sample approvals and production.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with sales, marketing, and operations teams to align design deliverables with brand goals.

Marketing & Content Creation

• Assist in creating digital content to support social media, email, and e-commerce platforms, including product photography, styling, and design assets.
• Partner with the marketing team to ensure brand consistency across creative campaigns.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or related field.
• 2–3 years of experience in fashion design (kids’ apparel and/or home accessories preferred).
• Strong knowledge of color and print theory, with the ability to bring forward an elevated aesthetic.
• Highly organized with digital file management and record-keeping (sample, fit, and marketing approvals).
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and MS Office.
• Strong communication skills—both written and verbal.
• Adaptable, team-oriented, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to travel as required.
• Experience in direct-to-consumer design and/or e-commerce is a plus.

About Us

8 Oak Lane, LLC is a design, manufacturing, and import company specializing in gifts, accessories, and apparel. We support both in-house brands and private label development for major U.S. retailers.

• Shade Critters: An award-winning UPF 50+ kids’ swimwear brand carried by leading global retailers. With stylish prints and sun-safe designs, Shade Critters delivers fashion-forward swimwear kids love and parents trust. www.shadecritters.com
• 8 Oak Lane: A modern home collection offering gifts and décor including stemware, tabletop accessories, holiday, and more. Inspired by all things current, clever, and creative, 8 Oak Lane delivers fresh and stylish solutions for today’s home. www.8oaklane.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $50,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• design: 1 year (Preferred)
• Adobe Illustrator: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person