Technical Associate

The Technical Associate manages the technical design process for the brand and provides technical expertise to evaluate apparel merchandise in terms of style, measurement and construction to achieve the appropriate fit, quality and design interpretation for the manufacturer to follow. Reporting to the Director of Product Development, this position will work closely with Design, Merchandising and Sourcing during the development process to ensure garment fit, aesthetics and construction standards are developed. Technical Associate is responsible to establish standard blocks as company standards. Communicate all fit related specifications for the brand. Guide vendors during pre-production development and sample approval with fit and workmanship standards.

Responsibilities:

· Translates the design concept developed by Design/Merchandising into specification packages which detail garment measurements, design features and construction requirements. Create and maintain season design POM template in Blue Cherry. Review design and issue tech pack with detailed garment construction, sewing and size specification by collaborating with cross­ functional partners to obtain clear direction and consensus on design aesthetic, fit intent and construction. Ensure size and fit consistency within product category.

· Evaluates samples for fit, measurement, construction, pattern shaping and functionality to ensure fit and proper styling. Communicates to vendors accept or reject fit status

· Create and maintain consistent fit, construction, grade rules and tolerances

· Provides technical direction, internally and externally, on corrective actions needed to bring samples to brand fit standards. Utilizes written comments, sketches, photos or pattern making as needed to communicate. Shares information across divisions to ensure continuous implementation of best practices.

· Issues grading guidelines to vendors after fit approval. Understands the issue, resolves problems, and uses experience and knowledge to generate solutions and/or alternatives to finalize fit.

· Build relationships/partnerships with cross functional team members, such as Design and Sourcing.

· Meet weekly with Production Team regarding the sample approval status in order to maintain company time/action calendars.

· Involves Design/Merchandising in the resolution of problems, as necessary; informing them of vendor’s capabilities to meet technical design standards.

· Research and resolve fit and construction issues using appropriate resources.

· Align and deliver to agreed calendar milestones.

· Schedule and lead fit 3D Browzwear fit sessions and communicate changes to achieve final fit and construction to meet brand requirements.

· Creates and maintains accurate files, history and reports.

· Perform other duties as assigned

· Domestic & International travel as needed

Education:

· Minimum 7 years’ experience in apparel or textile industry with emphasis on fit and pattern making and technical design

· Bachelor's degree in fashion - apparel/textile design, manufacturing, product development, merchandising or equivalent work experience in related field

· Prior experience in a childrenswear a must

Technical Qualifications:

· Patternmaking/Draping and fitting technique skills

· Sewing knowledge

· Thorough understanding of the design & development process from inception through production.

· Expert knowledge of industry construction standards and manufacturing, including hardware development

· Strong design, prototyping, and research skills

· Strong sketching ability and comprehensive understanding of adobe illustrator

· Understands the grade sequence and can participate in determining grade rules for specific garment measurements.

· Adept at translating the designers’ vision in fit terms to the vendor partners

Skills:

· Results oriented and committed to producing quality deliverables every day

· Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines, have impeccably time management skill and adapt quickly to change.

· Clear and effective written and verbal communication and strong interpersonal skills

· Strong organizational skills with an ability to prioritize effectively and acute attention to detail

· Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with cross functional teams and external partners

· Ability to multi-task, proactively trouble shoot, problem solve, and the ability to effectively influence

· Proficient in 3D Browzwear

· Proficient in Microsoft Excel

· Proficient in Microsoft Office

· Knowledge of Blue Cherry a plus

· Driven by deadlines with a high sense of urgency.

· Ability to understand and fully incorporate the brand’s aesthetic.

Reporting Structure:

· Reports to Director of Product Development

· Manage Digital Product Creation Team

Status:

· Exempt