Summer Intern - Collaborations/Special Projects

Who We Are:

Kontoor Brands is a portfolio of three of the world’s most iconic lifestyle, outdoor and workwear brands: Wrangler®, Lee® and Helly Hansen®. Kontoor Brands is a purpose-led organization focused on leveraging its global platform, strategic sourcing model and best-in-class supply chain to drive brand growth and deliver long- term value for its stakeholders.

Job Posting:

Kontoor Brands Summer Internship Program 2026 | Program Overview

Level up your fashion-industry experience with the teams behind Wrangler® and Lee® jeans, Kontoor Brands! We design, manufacture and distribute superior high-quality products that look good, fit right, and are crafted with respect to our planet to give people around the world the freedom and confidence to express themselves. Above all, our people are our business.

Purpose is in our Genes. People are our thread.

With a presence in over 60 countries and a legacy that dates back over 200 years, our massive global community is all about integrity, teamwork, performance, and entrepreneurship. We're on the hunt for inclusive, creative, and down-to-earth forward-thinkers passionate about meaningful and purposeful apparel.

Belonging starts with Influencers and Advocates. Become a Kontoor Brands Champion.

Kontoor Brands’ Summer Intern Program is packed with projects, networking socials, cross-functional learning, and the chance to connect with industry trailblazers like our Executive Leadership Team. Previous interns have taken on projects as subject matter experts and social architects to engineer solutions through social media, Go-To-Market strategies, and denim designs. Participants can also take advantage of opportunities to explore interests in Social Issues, Sustainability, Career Fairs, Community Outreach and more. This is a 10-week, full-time paid internship. Start your journey with us and take your career to the next level!

Apply to join the common thread and gain so much more!          

Program Overview:

• 10-week term
• Full-time paid internship
• Must be local or willing to relocate to Greensboro, NC

Find Your Fit at Kontoor if you are:                                    

• Currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program at a College/University and able to receive a paid internship
• Eligible to work in the US without restrictions
• Have previously demonstrated leadership skills through school, extracurricular activities and/or community involvement
• Exceptional at taking on challenges and using your particular set of skills to create solutions
• A self-starter, ability to work with others in a team environment, with a passion for helping others
• Knowledgeable of Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, etc.)

Full-time roles are up for grabs when the program concludes. Opportunities are based on performance and business needs. Don't miss out on this amazing experience and jumpstart your career with Kontoor Brands.

Project Role: Summer Intern - Collaborations/Special Projects

This Design Intern role is a development opportunity intended for individuals aspiring to grow into an Assistant Designer position. The intern will support the Wrangler Design team throughout the design and development process while gaining hands-on exposure to how product is created, developed, and brought to market at a global apparel brand.

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for a Design Intern who is a go-getter, team player, and naturally curious. Someone who is eager to learn, excited to explore new ideas and new ways of working, and motivated to grow within a fast-paced, collaborative design environment. This role is ideal for someone who takes initiative, asks thoughtful questions, and is excited about building a strong foundation to grow into an Assistant Designer role.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Support the design team in the development of seasonal product lines and special projects.
• Assist designers with Illustrator flats, simple CADs, and design updates as directed.
• Help build and maintain seasonal design decks, presentations, and CAD sheets.
• Enter and track virtual and physical prototypes and assist with maintaining design development trackers.
• Support organization of samples, materials, and presentation assets.
• Conduct trend, market, and consumer research to support seasonal storytelling and concept development.
• Compile visual inspiration and competitive analysis materials.
• Take notes in proto, fit, and key milestone meetings to support design execution.
• Gain exposure to cross-functional partners including Merchandising, Product Development, and Technical Design.
• Learn the go-to-market process and how design decisions are made from concept through execution.
• Draft content outlines: hook, concept, shot list, copy options, sound/music, and notes on timing/platform nuances.
• Partner with the team during content planning to ensure timely alignment with tentpole events and seasonal priorities.

Skills for Success:

• Intermediate Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop skills.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to take direction, apply feedback, and follow through.
• Curious mindset with a strong desire to learn and explore new ideas.
• Team-first attitude with a positive outlook and strong work ethic.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Education & Program Requirements

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Fashion Design, or a related field.
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and able to participate in a full-time, paid summer internship.
• Must be local or willing to relocate to Greensboro, NC for the duration of the internship.

Growth & Development Opportunity

This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience and mentorship within the Wrangler Design team. Successful interns may be considered for future opportunities as an Assistant Designer based on performance, demonstrated growth, and business needs.

Location Requirements:     

• Greensboro, North Carolina

Why Kontoor Brands?

At Kontoor, we offer a comprehensive benefit package to fit your lifestyle. Our benefits are crafted with the same care as our products.

When our employees are healthy, secure, and well, they bring their best selves to work. Kontoor Brands supports you with a competitive benefits program that provides choice and flexibility to meet your and your family’s needs – now and in the future. We offer resources to support your physical, emotional, social, and financial wellbeing, plus benefits like discounts on our apparel. Kontoor Brands also provides four weeks of Paid Parental Leave to eligible employees who are new parents, Flexible Fridays, and Tuition Reimbursement.

We are proud to offer a workplace culture centered on equitable opportunities and a sense of belonging for all team members. Here we have a global workforce of high-performing teams that both unlocks our individual uniqueness and harnesses our collaborative talents.