Lead Technical Apparel Designer in Beaverton, Oregon - #72367 | VanderHouwen

Description

Job Id: 72367

Lead Technical Apparel Designer
Our client is seeking a highly experienced Lead Technical Apparel Designer to drive the technical execution of innovative performance apparel from concept through commercialization. This role is ideal for a technically strong product creation professional with deep expertise in outerwear construction, patternmaking, and fit development, who thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment and can confidently influence technical product decisions from prototype through production.

This role is a hybrid model in Beaverton, Oregon.

Lead Technical Apparel Designer Responsibilities

• Lead the technical design and development of assigned apparel product categories, with a strong focus on performance-driven outerwear and sports apparel.
• Own fit, construction, pattern integrity, and garment execution from initial concept through final commercialization and production handoff.
• Develop, maintain, and revise detailed technical documentation including tech packs, construction specifications, grading details, fit comments, and prototype notes.
• Facilitate fit sessions, evaluate garment performance, and recommend technical adjustments to improve fit, function, manufacturability, and overall product quality.
• Partner closely with design, product management, materials, development, and manufacturing teams to translate creative intent into technically executable product solutions.
• Identify construction, development, or production challenges early and proactively drive solutions to maintain timelines and product integrity.
• Establish and uphold technical fit and construction standards across assigned product categories to ensure consistency and quality.
• Collaborate with manufacturing partners and development teams to improve garment manufacturability, construction methods, and production readiness.
• Monitor development timelines, prototype progress, and technical deliverables to ensure milestones and launch deadlines are achieved.
• Stay informed on emerging apparel technologies, construction innovations, consumer expectations, and industry best practices to inform technical decision-making.
• Act as a senior technical resource within the team, offering guidance, mentorship, and technical expertise to cross-functional partners.

Lead Technical Apparel Designer Qualifications

• 8+ years of technical design experience within the apparel industry, including full product lifecycle ownership from concept through production.
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Technical Design, Textile Science, Product Development, or a related discipline; equivalent hands-on experience may be considered.
• Strong expertise in technical outerwear design, including advanced patternmaking, garment construction, fit development, grading, and apparel manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated experience creating technical specifications, construction standards, and detailed development documentation for production execution.
• Proficiency with Adobe Illustrator, CAD pattern design software such as Optitex, and 3D apparel visualization tools including CLO and/or Browzwear.
• Experience partnering with product creation, development, materials, and manufacturing teams in a high-volume consumer product environment.
• Strong ability to interpret design intent and translate concepts into technically sound, manufacturable product solutions.
• Proven problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot fit, construction, and production challenges independently.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple concurrent product initiatives.
• Experience working within established consumer apparel, performance product, or athletic product organizations is highly preferred.
• Self-starter mindset with flexibility, strong collaboration skills, and the ability to navigate ambiguity in a fast-paced development environment.

Compensation: Up to $48/hr. (DOE)

VanderHouwen Contractors Enjoy Exceptional Benefit Perks!
As an eligible contract employee with VanderHouwen, you’ll have access to a full suite of benefits designed with your well-being in mind. Our comprehensive package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, and a matching 401(k) to help secure your future.

Meet VanderHouwen
What kind of recruiter do you see yourself working with? One who prioritizes your best interest, no matter what? VanderHouwen does, and we’re in it for the long game! Our recruiters focus on YOU, building meaningful, long-term relationships while developing a deep understanding of companies’ staffing needs and workplace cultures. This approach helps us find an ideal job match that aligns with your unique career aspirations and goals.

VanderHouwen is an award-winning, Women & Diversity-Owned, WBENC certified professional staffing firm. Founded in 1987, VanderHouwen places experienced professionals across the nation! Our recruitment teams specialize in either Technology and IT, Engineering, Human Resources, or Accounting and Finance career markets. Partner with us to land your next exciting career!

VanderHouwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify. VanderHouwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.

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