About the position
We are seeking an experienced Technical Design & Product Development Manager (Apparel & Soft Accessories) as our second key hire for our expanding soft goods team. Reporting directly to the Director of Soft Goods, you’ll establish technical design excellence while growing into product development leadership, translating creative designs into production-ready products. This role begins with 70% technical design focus and 30% product development, evolving toward greater PD responsibilities as our soft goods division and processes mature. The ideal candidate has deep technical design expertise with growing product development experience and a passion for building scalable processes.
Responsibilities
- Create comprehensive technical specifications, tech packs, and conduct fit sessions across apparel and soft accessories categories
- Establish grading standards, size specifications, and quality criteria that scale with company growth
- Lead technical reviews and troubleshoot complex construction, fit and quality issues
- Build technical libraries, documentation systems and training protocols to support future team expansion
- Partner with suppliers on material research, selection, and testing initiatives for fabric, trim, and hardware
- Coordinate sample development processes and support production timeline management with overseas manufacturers
- Collaborate on costing analysis and recommend technical modifications to meet target margins
- Evaluate and approve all production samples with technical authority while supporting vendor relationship management
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Technical Design, Textile Design or related field
- 7-10 years of experience in technical design, with 3+ years in product development
- 3-5 Years of leadership experience (mentoring, process development, or small team guidance)
- Expert proficiency in technical design software (Illustrator required and PLM systems preferred); CLO3D/Browzwear a plus
- Deep understanding of garment construction, fit principles, manufacturing processes, and fabric properties
- Experience with costing methodologies, overseas manufacturing, and international production management
- Proven track record of bringing technically complex products to market successfully
- Exceptional problem-solving skills with complex construction and fit challenges
- Excellent technical communication skills with complex construction and fit challenges
- Growth-oriented mindset with enthusiasm for expanding product development expertise
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision care
- 401k package with employer matching
- Paid Time Off
- Maternity/Paternity leave
- Full indoor basketball/volleyball court
- Fully equipped fitness center (cardio, weights, functional fitness area, lockers and showers, etc.)
- Yoga studio
- Meditation/Nap room
- And much more!
