Technical Designer - Denim, Outerwear, & Sportswear (Freelance)
$104,000–$114,400 year
On-site · New York City, New York, United States
Job Summary
Freelance Technical Designer responsible for ensuring fit, construction integrity, and technical accuracy of denim, outerwear, and sportswear from concept through production. Create and maintain detailed tech packs, graded specifications, BOMs, construction pages, and fit documentation using PLM and Excel. Apply advanced garment construction, patternmaking, grading, and fit knowledge when reviewing and refining styles. Conduct fittings independently and provide clear, detailed fit comments focused on consistency, functionality, quality, and commercialization. Evaluate and measure samples from prototype through TOP approval, ensuring consistency across size ranges and product categories. Partner closely with Design to maintain the intended aesthetic while resolving technical and construction challenges. Communicate effectively with factories and overseas partners regarding fit corrections, construction details, quality issues, and execution solutions. Track sample development and approvals against seasonal calendars to ensure on-time delivery. Establish and maintain fit standards across denim, outerwear, and sportswear categories. Troubleshoot category-specific construction and performance issues, including garment wash effects, fabric shrinkage, fit retention, insulation performance, seam construction, stretch recovery, and overall garment functionality. Collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Merchandising, Product Development, Sourcing, and Production teams to support end-to-end product development. Maintain accurate technical documentation and approvals within PLM systems. Manage multiple styles, categories, priorities, and deadlines effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Technical Design, Apparel Design, Textile Science, or a related field
- 5–7+ years of technical design experience with a strong focus on denim, outerwear, and/or sportswear
- Strong knowledge of garment construction, patternmaking, grading, fit development, fabric performance, and manufacturing processes
- Experience working with a variety of fabrics and constructions, including denim, wovens, technical fabrics, insulated garments, and performance apparel
- Proven ability to independently lead fittings from development through TOP approval
- Strong understanding of garment performance, durability, wash processes, shrinkage, and quality standards
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills with cross-functional teams and global vendors
- High proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Microsoft Excel, and PLM systems
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills
- Ability to manage multiple product categories and seasonal deadlines simultaneously
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