Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or related field preferred
5+ years of apparel design experience
Experience in a fast-paced, high-volume apparel environment preferred
Menswear experience is a plus
Portfolio required
Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; PLM experience preferred
Demonstrated understanding of AI tools for design visualization
Responsibilities
Develop seasonal concepts, color palettes, prints, and silhouettes
Create original design sketches and detailed technical flats
Select fabrics, trims, washes, and colors in collaboration with teams
Build and present mood boards and concept decks for reviews
Conduct trend and market research to inform design direction
Create and manage accurate tech packs throughout development
Participate in fit sessions and provide feedback for revisions
Benefits
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Term life insurance
Paid vacation and holidays
401(k) with company match
Associate discount on all Catalyst Brands merchandise
Additional compensation for working on designated holidays
Full Job Description
Overview
Job Title: Designer
Department: Design Location: New York, NY
Position Overview
The Designer, Nautica, is responsible for leading the creative development and execution of apparel collections from concept through production. This role partners closely with Merchandising, Technical Design, and Production to deliver on-brand, commercially successful product while meeting seasonal timelines and quality standards. The Designer plays an active role in shaping the aesthetic, driving design development, and supporting execution across key categories.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Creative Development
Develop seasonal concepts, color palettes, prints, and silhouettes aligned with brand direction and customer needs
Create original design sketches and detailed technical flats using Adobe Illustrator
Select fabrics, trims, washes, and colors in partnership with cross-functional teams
Build and present mood boards, concept decks, and line presentations for seasonal reviews
Conduct trend, market, and competitive research using digital platforms (e.g., TikTok, Instagram, Miro, WGSN) to inform design direction
Product Development & Execution
Create, update, and manage accurate tech packs, including measurements, construction details, BOMs, and design intent
Participate in and lead fit sessions; provide clear feedback and track revisions through final approval
Review and manage samples throughout the development lifecycle, ensuring quality, fit, and consistency
Track product updates and maintain accurate records to support on-time development
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with Merchandising to align design with line plans, SKU counts, and financial targets
Collaborate closely with Technical Design and Production to ensure feasibility, cost targets, and quality standards are met
Communicate design intent and feedback to overseas vendors and factories
Support seasonal milestone meetings and ensure deliverables are met on schedule
Operational & Team Support
Maintain organized design files, reference libraries, and seasonal documentation
Update PLM systems, line plans, and internal tracking tools
Support market preparation, line adoptions, and collaboration launches as needed
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or a related field preferred
Experience
5+ years of apparel design experience
Experience within a fast-paced, high-volume apparel environment preferred
Menswear experience a plus
Portfolio required
Skills
Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; PLM experience required or strongly preferred
Proficiency in Miro for collaboration with design and cross-functional teams
Demonstrated understanding and hands-on experience using AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Gemini, Vizcom) for ideation, concept development, and design visualization
Strong sketching and design execution skills with attention to detail
Solid understanding of garment construction, fabrics, and fit
Ability to manage multiple styles and deadlines simultaneously
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Personal Attributes
Strong design point of view balanced with commercial sensibility
Proactive, organized, and solution-oriented
Collaborative team player with a positive, adaptable mindset
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Physical Requirements (if applicable)
Ability to lift and transport garment samples and sample boxes
Ability to attend fit sessions, line reviews, and market meetings
What you get:
If eligible, we offer a competitive benefits package including medical/dental/vision, term life insurance, paid vacation/holidays*, and 401(k) with Company match. All associates are eligible for an associate discount on all Catalyst Brands merchandise. For paid holidays, associates who are eligible for paid vacation (MTO) are also eligible for eight paid holidays during the calendar year. All store hourly associates scheduled to work on a designated holiday will receive additional compensation. *For paid vacation days, as well as eligibility requirements for other benefits, please visit www.catalystbrandsbenefits.com
