Assistant Designer
Assistant Designer
We are seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and process-driven Assistant Designer to join our team. This role plays a critical part in supporting both men's & women's design execution and production/sample management, partnering closely with the Design Director, Senior Designers, sales team, and overseas factories to keep development moving on schedule.
The ideal candidate is a strong communicator who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is comfortable managing multiple priorities simultaneously, and has a foundational understanding of the apparel design and development process from tech pack through bulk production. This individual should be a proactive team player, open to direction, and able to switch gears quickly across sample tracking, factory communication, CAD/tech pack support, and showroom preparation.
Key Responsibilities
Design Support
- Assist in the day-to-day operations of the design team and support the full development process from tech pack to prototype to salesman sample to bulk production.
- Create and update sketches, presentation CADs, tech packs, and print artwork.
- Assist Senior Designers with CADs and tech packs across other categories as needed.
- Update presentation boards and perform design and trend research as required.
- Provide general support to Design and Tech Design teams (cutting swatches, communicating approvals to factories, etc.).
Production & Sample Management
- Track, communicate, and follow up daily with overseas suppliers on all SMS, PP, and TOP samples.
- Receive and open incoming sample packages daily; log all samples into the tracking chart.
- Review samples with the design team and process each according to buyer guidelines, including completing and attaching all required forms.
- Prepare outgoing sample packages for FedEx pick-up and compose corresponding emails to buyers.
- Track samples sent out by the sales team.
- Communicate with factories on all approval items — lab dips, bulk fabrics, print patterns, and trims — collaborating with the design team as needed.
- Maintain electronic and physical records of production approvals by season; follow up with factories on rejected submissions.
- Meet all deadlines per the seasonal calendar.
Showroom & Library Management
- Maintain the sample archive, fabric library, and trim library.
- Prepare swatch cards and take product photos.
- Maintain the order and presentation of the showroom in anticipation of client meetings.
- Administrative tasks as required.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 1–3 years of fashion industry experience, preferably in design; recent graduates of design programs may be considered.
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and MS Office Suite (CAD samples will be requested).
- Sketching ability with technical accuracy.
- Highly organized, responsible, punctual, and reliable, with a sharp eye for detail.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and switch gears in a fast-paced environment.
- Team player, open to direction, and able to work well under pressure.
Salary range $55k to $65k