About Rip Curl
Founded in Torquay in 1969, Rip Curl is The Ultimate Surfing Company, born from a relentless pursuit for waves, adventure, and freedom, called 'The Search'. Today, The Search continues to inspire all that we do, from the products we make, the events we run, the athletes we support, and the values we strive to uphold. Built by surfers, for surfers, Rip Curl is a global company that has been leading the surf industry for over 50 years. As a certified B Corp, we aim to prioritise people and planet in everything we do. The Search is calling… apply today and become part of The Ultimate Surfing company.
About the role....
Rip Curl is looking for a creative and motivated Assistant Designer – Swimwear to join our Women's Swimwear Centre of Excellence at our global headquarters in Torquay. In this exciting role, you'll support the Swimwear Design Director in crafting innovative, performance-driven, and fashion-forward swimwear that reflects our vision of being the Ultimate Surfing Company.
You'll gain hands-on experience across the full design cycle—from concept development to product execution—while helping deliver swimwear that's fit for the surf and beach lifestyle.
Key Responsibilities
Design Support & Development
* Assist in designing seasonal swimwear ranges with a focus on trend, colour, fit, fabric, and styling.
* Support the team with design specifications, approvals, and supplier communications.
* Contribute to innovation and sustainability initiatives across the swimwear category.
Market & Customer Insight
* Develop a strong understanding of customer segmentation and global market needs.
* Assist in researching trends, testing new ideas, and refining fit and function for the beach and surf lifestyle.
Collaboration & Communication
* Work closely with the Swimwear Design Director, Head of Design, and global design teams.
* Collaborate with Product Development, Marketing, and Sales to ensure product excellence.
* Partner with the Men's Boardshort team to share insights and synergies where possible.
Creative Direction & Graphics
* Support the approval and development of graphics, artworks, and trims in collaboration with the Art & Graphics team.
* Help ensure seasonal creative direction is reflected across all women's swimwear products.
What You'll Bring
* A motivated, enthusiastic approach to design and teamwork.
* Strong understanding of garment construction, trims, and fabrications.
* Ability to forecast and apply fashion trends in a timely and relevant way.
* Excellent communication and time management skills.
* Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
* A genuine connection to the Rip Curl brand, its values, and its customer
Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at KMD Brands
At KMD Brands, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We're committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves.
We celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our people — across age, gender, identity, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and physical and mental ability. We know that when our team reflects the communities we serve, we create better outcomes for everyone.
We proudly acknowledge and pay respect to Tangata Whenua, the Indigenous Nations, First Peoples, and Custodians of the lands and waterways on which our brand head offices reside in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture continues to inspire and guide us.
Click APPLY and join us on The Search.
Join us in shaping a workplace where everyone belongs.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.