3d Footwear Designer

The Bata Group is one of the world's leading manufacturers and retailers of quality footwear. A global company with more than 30,000 employees, over 5,000 stores in more than 70 countries worldwide, Bata has been providing the best shoes at the best value for money, backed by unparalleled service, for more than 120 years. Since its founding in 1894 by Thomas Bata, the Company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to responsible and innovative business models in the belief that capital is not just money, but, above all, people, knowledge and core values. Today, Bata's pioneering principles enable the company to adapt quickly to market changes. It also continues Bata's long tradition of being sensitive to cultural and national differences and enables it to function proudly as an inclusive company in every country in which it operates.

DESCRIPTION OF THE ROLE:

This role will support Bata’s digital transformation journey within the casual and athleisure footwear category. The 3D Footwear Designer will focus primarily but not exclusively, on upper development, translating seasonal design concepts into accurate, production-aware 3D digital models. The position, reporting directly to our Chief Bata Design, plays a key role in reducing physical samples, accelerating decision-making, and improving cross-functional alignment

KEY RESPONSABILITIES:

• Develop detailed 3D models from 2D briefs, sketches, and seasonal direction.
• Digitally build patterns, overlays, stitching, and material layering for commercial casual footwear.
• Ensure correct fit alignment with approved lasts and outsole geometries.
• Create realistic material simulations for leather, synthetics, textiles, and knit constructions.
• Collaborate closely with outsole engineers to ensure upper/outsole integration accuracy.
• Prepare 3D assets for range meetings, sales presentations, and e-commerce visualization.
• Build and maintain a structured digital library of upper components and constructions.
• Support sample reduction initiatives through digital validation workflows.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

We are looking for a candidate who can make a significant impact. The profile should include:

• Bachelor’s degree in Footwear Design, Industrial Design, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in casual or lifestyle footwear design.
• Advanced proficiency in 3D software (ICad3D+, Rhino, Clo3D, Blender, or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of upper constructions (cemented, strobel, cupsole, slip-lasting, etc.).
• Experience working with global factories and development teams.
• Strong commercial sensitivity and cost-awareness.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Strong aesthetic judgment aligned with Bata’s commercial positioning.
• Precision in digital pattern creation and upper detailing.
• Cross-functional collaboration mindset.
• Structured, deadline-driven execution.

LOCATION:

• Limena, Italy (PD)
• Possibility of working in Smart Working for part of the week after an initial on-site training period
• Willingness to travel