Assistant Footwear Technologist - Childrenswear
Location Leicester
Job Schedule Full time
Posting Date 16/02/2026
Apply Before 02/03/2026
About the Role:
Based in Enderby, Leicester Head Office.
We have an exciting opportunity for an Assistant Footwear Technologist to join the Next Childrenswear team.
When it comes to UK retail, it’s hard to find a company with a bigger focus on quality. Our loyal customer base comes back to us time and time again for our renowned quality products. For anyone in the Footwear technology field - this is the place to learn, to grow and to thrive.
Reporting to the Technologist, you will support the whole footwear technology process from design concept to the customer; elevating quality is key in Next Childrenswear.
-Developing the range; focusing on front end product development, driving technical innovation and product improvements whilst promoting collaborative and close working relationships with the product team and suppliers. Approving and progressing the range; delivering excellent quality standards, providing clear and concise written and verbal communication internally and externally; whilst managing supply base to meet expectations.
-Responsibility for risk assessment, and requesting and analysing product test data, to ensure compliance with all performance, legal and safety standards.
-Implementing Next policies and sustainability target.
-Managing in season; reviewing product quality throughout season, auditing and utilising information to further improve quality.
-Supporting the team to meet objectives, while managing critical path, workload and priorities.
About You:
A team player; you will have great people skills to communicate effectively within a multi functional team. Using your technical experience & exceptional eye for technical detail, you will be able to demonstrate an excellent understanding of footwear manufacturing, construction, fit and performance. You’ll show drive and initiative to generate and implement new ideas in your department.
Your Team:
The Childrenswear Technology team at NEXT has a wealth of knowledge and experience across territories. This is an ideal opportunity to show us what you can do and to also soak up all the knowledge of those around you.
Sponsorship:
Candidates wishing to apply who would require sponsorship for this role will be required to meet the Home Office sponsorship requirements. For further information please see: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa .
* Profit-related bonus - based on company performance
* Private health insurance- surgery choices
* Sharesave scheme - make savings from your net pay to buy NEXT shares at a discount
* Pension - fixed contribution rates from both an employer and employee perspective, but you're also able to make additional voluntary contributions (AVCs) if you wish to save more.
* 25% staff discount on most NEXT products - plus discount on other products
* Wagestream - helping you make the most out of your money
* Salary finance - offers access to affordable loans repaid through salary, simple savings and free financial education.
* Life assurance
* Direct to work - NEXT orders delivered free to the office for collection
* VIP sale - early access to the NEXT sale
* Access to NEXT staff shops
* Octopus energy - like cycle-to-work, but for electric vehicles
* Free parking (excluding London locations)
* National and local discounts on goods and services - this includes things like discounted cinema tickets
* Wellhub - includes access to discounted gym membership
* Simply health - a healthcare subscription service
* Aviva Digicare Workplace+ healthcare service - 7 Free services including Digital GP appointments and an annual health check.
* A range of dedicated 3rd party wellbeing partners
* Free eye testing - voucher to use at specific locations
Conditions apply to all benefits. These benefits are discretionary and subject to change.
We aim to support all candidates during the application process and are happy to provide workplace adjustments when necessary. Should you need support with your application due to a disability or long-term condition, feel free to get in touch with us by email headoffice_careers@next.co.uk (please include 'Workplace Adjustments' in the subject line), or call us on 0116 284 2486 and leave a voicemail.
What's Next?
Show us what you can do. Submit your application online and our recruitment team will take a first look at your experience and strengths.
Inform
Let’s talk. We will get in touch for an initial conversation by phone or video to learn more about you and share what the team is looking for.
Review
If you are invited to an interview, you may be asked to present an interview task or portfolio and talk through your experience in a competency based interview. It is also your chance to ask questions and get to know us.
Offer
If it’s the right match, our recruitment team will be in touch with a job offer and next steps. This is where your journey with NEXT begins.
Team Overview
This is where ideas become incredible collections. Designers, Buyers, Merchandisers, and Technologists collaborate to create products our customers love. You'll spot global trends, strategically balance our range plans and meticulously test quality so every season feels fresh, inspiring and exceptional.
Explore similar opportunities across our business.
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