Backpack & Cooler Designer - Freelance

We’re looking for a freelance Backpack & Cooler Designer to support our growing team! This role focuses on designing backpacks (for adults and kids), coolers, lunch bags, and luggage from concept to production. The ideal candidate has a strong eye for form and function, understands current design trends, and can quickly turn around market-ready, production-friendly designs. This is a project-based freelance role with the potential for ongoing work. We're looking for someone who can jump in quickly, collaborate with our in-house team, and help move key projects forward.

About the Role - Key Responsibilities:

• Design and develop backpacks, coolers, lunch bags, and luggage with a focus on style, functionality, and end-user appeal
• Create cohesive product assortments across categories that align with our brand and seasonal direction
• Prepare and present concept boards, sketches, and product renderings for internal and client reviews
• Develop sketches, technical drawings, and material specifications for production hand-off
• Research materials, trends, and construction techniques to inform design decisions
• Collaborate with Product Development to ensure designs meet quality, cost, and timeline goals
• Support packaging and branding efforts when needed (experience in packaging/graphic design is a plus)
• Communicate with factories/vendors to support sample development and revisions
• Stay aware of market trends and competitive product designs

Qualifications:

• 3+ years of product design experience in soft goods, including backpacks, coolers, lunch bags, or similar categories
• Strong skills in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop for concept and technical design
• Knowledge of materials, construction, and manufacturing processes for bags and soft goods
• Excellent visual communication and storytelling skills (sketching, renderings, mood boards)
• Ability to design full assortments or collections with a cohesive look and feel
• Experience with packaging design is a plus
• Familiarity with 3D design software (e.g., Solidworks, Keyshot) is a plus, but not required
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and collaborate with cross-functional teams
• Available to start immediately

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and portfolio, and a brief note highlighting your experience with backpack and cooler design. We’re excited to see your creative perspective and how you can help bring our products to life!