Associate Product Designer

It's no surprise people are passionate about the health and happiness of their pet and our Merchandising (buying) team is no different. When it comes to the products and solutions in our stores, our incredible teams of merchandising associates have everything covered – from head to tail! From keeping up with the top trends to developing new, innovative solutions, our buyers help ensure every pet parent can find exactly what their pet needs at PetSmart. Join our team and show your love for pets by creating products as special as pets themselves!

Collaborative Work Environment:
At PetSmart, teamwork and connection are core to how we thrive. This role is based at our Phoenix Home Office, with an expectation of working a minimum of four days in the office each week. In a standard work week, associates may work up to one remote “flex day” (with leader approval). Our hybrid approach is designed to foster strong collaboration while also supporting flexibility and individual success.

This role will be responsible for supporting the design team and developing innovative solutions for a variety of product categories; particularly in dog and cat product. As an Associate Product Designer, you’ll participate in trend and market research and be responsible for translating those learnings into fun, creative, and unique designs, which you will take from concept stage to sample stage.

Working in a fast paced corporate environment requires a creative thinker with a passion for design who is able to effectively communicate their ideas and receive feedback and who is comfortable working on several different projects at once, adhering to calendar dates and milestones. Must be proficient at following processes.

Candidate will work under the supervision of the Manager and will work collaboratively and cross-functionally with cross-functional partners to ensure objectives are met. Also, key to this role is a positive attitude, versatility, flexibility, creativity, and aesthetic sensibility.

**Please submit a portfolio/work samples with your application.**

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supports product design team by participating in competitive retailing, developing trend and concept boards, being flexible and providing support on all projects and product categories when needed
• Create print, pattern and graphics for seasonal product collections
• Manages the Points of Measurement process, monitoring, evaluating and consulting cross-functional partners
• Manages multiple projects at a time from concept through pre-production and manages the full scope of deliverables, including design specifications and technical drawings
• Communicates and presents designs to cross-functional partners and all levels of leadership
• Works closely with cross-functional partners to provide adequate information and/or sample feedback
• Participates/presents in weekly design meetings; aligning and preparing content for design reviews
• Conceptualizes multiple creative solutions and design options to address project strategies and product needs within given cost parameters
• Drives innovation by following the latest trends and using those learnings to develop creative concepts that translate into production-ready 3D products
• Collaborates with cross-functional partners, including brand, buying, legal, and quality assurance teams to make sure objectives are met

QUALIFICATIONS AND TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Demonstrates proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite – particularly Adobe Illustrator
• 3-5 years professional experience designing and developing products for mass production
• Ability to translate 2D artwork into specification via AI format for production
• Sketching, brainstorming, ideation skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to learn and receive feedback from colleagues
• Must be a self-motivated team player with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Basic knowledge of mass manufacturing techniques in soft and hard goods
• Experience collaborating with overseas vendors (virtual or in-person) is a plus; occasional travel to Asia for showroom or factory visits may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional

• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Illustration skills and/or experience designing toys (plush and/or molded) is a plus
• Apparel experience is a plus

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in design or related field
• 3-5 years professional experience designing and developing products for mass production
• Experience working in a team environment, good interpersonal skills
• Experience with a workflow management system is a plus
• Experience designing into cost structures a plus

• This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and face-to-face interaction with colleagues, leaders, and/or clients.
• Being in the office ensures access to leaders, cross-functional partners, and resources necessary to make timely decisions and drive results.
• On-site presence in accordance with our FlexSmart policy supports our culture of innovation, mentorship, and engagement, which is integral to our success in developing the best team.

* This is not intended to be an all-inclusive, exhaustive list of all essential job functions for this position. PetSmart retains the right to change or assign other required job duties to this position.

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. 

We’re more than a workplace, we’re Team PetSmart. Together, we grow, collaborate, and challenge ourselves to be the best in all we do. Our culture is built on belonging and shared purpose, where every voice and experience matters. Guided by our values, we strive to do what’s right, lead responsibly, and bring our passion for pets to life every day. Not sure if you meet 100% of the position requirements and whether you should apply? We’d still like to hear from you and encourage you to apply with us! You might be the right fit for this role or another opportunity across Team PetSmart.

Our home office offers outstanding amenities in a fun and rewarding workplace including:

• Pet-friendly environment, bring your pets to work and enjoy the on-site dog park!
• On-Site Events & Adoptions, enjoy community-building opportunities, including pet adoption days, seasonal celebrations, family events, art events, & holiday festivals
• “Top Dog” gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists, personal trainers, and wellness spaces
• “Sit & Stay” Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options, snacks, & more
• “Lil Paws” NAEYC-accredited onsite childcare facility providing high-quality early education
• Paid Volunteer Opportunities to spend time doing good for causes close to heart
• Print Center and Business Services, Dry Cleaning, Mother's Rooms, Sustainable Infrastructure & more

PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.