Outerknown
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Design / Product Design
Technical Designer Full Time
Outerknown is deeply committed to creating a world where people and the planet prosper. Our mission is to protect workers and natural resources, reimagine design, and embrace circularity. To deliver on these commitments, we prioritize innovative solutions and responsibly sourced materials that align with both our brand and industry standards.
Main Purpose and Major Challenges of the Role
We are looking for an experienced Technical Designer with a strong background in both men’s and women’s apparel to join our team. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of garment construction, fit, and pattern making, ensuring our products meet the highest standards. This role requires collaboration with cross-functional teams, including design, product development, and production, to bring concepts to life while maintaining brand integrity and quality.
This is a hybrid role with in-office expectations.
ACCOUNTABILITY:
Technical Design
- Develop and execute detailed tech packs, including construction details, fit intent, and measurement specifications.
- Manage/Maintain all specs and grades from initial set up through production (protos, PPs, Size Sets, TOPs)
- Partner with design up front to interpret style concepts.
- Collaborate with designers, product developers, and overseas factories to refine prototypes and production samples.
- Analyze and troubleshoot fit and construction issues, proposing effective solutions to maintain design intent.
- Collaborate with the production team to understand calendar and execute accordingly.
- Work closely with factories to ensure adherence to specifications, quality, and construction standards.
- Understand and execute efficiently and cost effectively all technical aspects.
- Stay updated on industry trends, fabrications, and finishing techniques to continuously enhance product quality
- Work closely with the Technical Design Manager to enhance and evolve processes and procedures, as business evolves, while driving to elevate the quality of the product.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Technical Design Manager
Fitting & Specifications
- Lead fit sessions and provide clear, concise feedback to vendors and factories.
- Maintain fit schedule by utilizing fit time efficiently.
- Prepare samples for fitting.
- Provide clear and actionable feedback to ensure all specs fit comments and detailed drawings are conveyed accurately and on time.
- Create and revise digital patterns to ensure superior fit and functionality.
- Evaluate and adjust fit and functionality with keen attention to detail and precision.
- Maintain and update block libraries, fit standards, and grade rules for consistency across categories.
- Check and review graded specs for any discrepancies.
- Understand fabrics and how specifications impact garment fit – stretch, recovery, etc.
- Gain alignment with key stakeholders when necessary.
Vendor Relationships and Management
- Build and sustain strong partnerships with factories and vendors to communicate technical details, troubleshoot issues, and maintain product integrity throughout the sampling and production process.
- Foster collaboration and encourage innovation to maintain a competitive advantage.
- Regularly evaluate vendor performance, providing feedback and making recommendations for improvements or changes as necessary.
- Collaborate with vendors to troubleshoot and resolve any development or production challenges.
Brand mission:
- Ensure the alignment of product vision, quality, and functionality with the goal of minimizing environmental impacts.
- Ensure sustainable practices are embedded in every stage of the product development process, prioritizing practicality and efficiency.
- Encourage innovative solutions to reduce environmental impacts while maintaining design and quality standards.
- Demonstrate a passion for sustainability in all aspects of product development.
- Foster a high-performing, team-oriented, and cross-functional work environment.
Balancing Multiple Stakeholder Needs:
The role requires balancing the needs of different stakeholders, including internal departments, customers, and vendors. Ensuring smooth communication and meeting diverse requirements can be challenging, especially when priorities shift.
