Footwear Design Intern

Position Overview

Are you passionate about footwear, sustainability, and creativity? KEEN is offering an exciting opportunity for a Footwear Design Intern at its Global Headquarters in Portland, Oregon (on-site) for a 10‑week program. Join our innovative team and gain hands‑on experience working alongside industry experts. Compensation: $20/hour | Program Duration: Monday, June 16th – Friday, August 22nd.

Key Responsibilities

• Work alongside the Principal Footwear Designer to contribute to seasonal milestones and product assortments.
• Collaborate with product marketing, development, and other design teams to ideate and innovate.
• Gain hands‑on experience in design processes including sketching, 3D prototyping, and tactile construction.
• Prepare and share your portfolio; please include a portfolio link or a small PDF portfolio when applying.

Required Qualifications

• Must be enrolled in an accredited college or university at the Junior, Senior, or Graduate level, pursuing a degree in Product, Fashion Design, or a related field.
• Proficient in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; experience with 3D modeling software is a plus.
• Understanding of design processes with hands‑on experience in sketching, 3D prototyping, and working with materials like leather, textiles, and footwear components.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, outstanding attention to detail, and strong organizational abilities.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office programs (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint) and a willingness to learn new software tools.
• A passion for sustainability, creative problem‑solving, and the ability to work independently under tight deadlines.
• Commitment to a 40‑hour workweek during the internship period in Portland, OR.

Benefits & Perks

• Meaningful Work: Tackle real‑world projects and gain valuable hands‑on experience with a globally recognized brand.
• Collaborative Environment: Work closely with talented teammates and engage in group projects with fellow interns.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with industry experts and mentors to help shape your future career.
• Perks & Benefits: Enjoy product discounts, a subsidized cafeteria, and an inspiring workspace.
• Outdoor Adventures: Experience Portland’s vibrant outdoor scene with opportunities for hiking, biking, rafting, and more.