Technical Designer, Women's Cut & Sew Knits and Bottoms

J McLaughlin

$80K — $95K *
Retail & Consumer Goods
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Minimum 5 years of technical design experience
  • Degree in patternmaking/technical design preferred
  • Experience with knit tops and woven categories
  • Strong grasp of garment construction and pattern terminology
  • Ability to evaluate fit and review samples
  • Knowledge of grading and measurement specifications
  • Proficiency in PLM systems, Adobe Illustrator, and Microsoft Office/Excel
  • Strong attention to detail and clear communication skills

Responsibilities

  • Ensure technical accuracy across product categories
  • Drive development of technical packages and garment specifications
  • Evaluate samples at various development stages
  • Record fit comments and maintain technical documentation
  • Assess construction details for aesthetic and functional standards
  • Communicate fit comments and updates to vendors
  • Manage sample inventory and fitting logistics

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match
  • Generous paid time off and holidays
  • Hybrid or flexible work environment
  • Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
  • Clothing allowance and discounts on merchandise
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Full Job Description
Overview

We are seeking a Technical Designer for our Women's Cut & Sew Knits & Bottoms categories to support the Technical Design team in ensuring garments meet the brand's standards for fit, construction, grading, and quality while remaining scalable for production.

This role reports to the Director of Technical Design and partners closely with Design, Product Development, Production, and external vendors to help translate design concepts into technically sound garments. The Technical Designer will drive fit evaluations, technical documentation, and garment construction reviews to support consistent product execution across seasons.

The ideal candidate is highly detail-oriented, collaborative, and knowledgeable in garment construction, fit evaluation, and technical specifications.

This position is primarily based in our Greenpoint, Brooklyn office and follows a hybridschedule.

About the role

Essential Functions*:

Technical Design Execution

  • Ensure technical accuracy and consistency across product categories by supporting the development of fit standards, construction details, and garment specifications.
  • Drive the development and maintenance of the following for assigned catagories:
    • Technical packages (tech packs) and garment specifications
    • Measurement charts and grade rules
    • Construction standards and workmanship guidelines
    • Block libraries and seasonal updates
    • Ensure technical documentation is accurate, organized, and updated throughout the product lifecycle.


Fit & Sample Evaluation

  • Review and and evaluate samples at various development stages including:
    • Prototype (Proto)
    • Fit samples
    • Pre-production (PP) samples
    • Top of Production (TOP) samples, as needed
  • Evaluate garment fit, balance, and proportion and make appropriate corrections.
  • Record fit comments and maintain technical documentation following fittings.
  • Work with cross-functional teams and vendors to ensure fit corrections and revisions are implemented accurately.


Garment Construction & Engineering

  • Assess construction details to ensure garments meet both aesthetic and functional standards.
  • Evaluate fabric properties and how they impact garment fit, drape, and performance.
  • Provide recommendations for garment engineering improvements to enhance manufacturability and consistency.
  • Partner with Product Development and vendors to troubleshoot construction or pattern issues during development.


Vendor Communication & Sample Tracking

  • Communicate fit comments and technical updates clearly to vendors and internal teams.
  • Track sample revisions and ensure updates are reflected accurately in technical documentation.
  • Monitor and track development progress to support timely approvals and production readiness.

Fit Session Management:
  • Manage sample inventory, including receiving, cataloging, organizing, and preparing products for fittings.
  • Schedule and organize fitting sessions, coordinating calendars, preparing garments and materials, and ensuring all stakeholders are informed and prepared.
  • Point person with PD & Production for sample logistics, ensuring timely delivery, return, and organization of all products throughout the development process.


Additional Job Responsibilities:
  • Other related duties as assigned

Other duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

What we are looking for

Skills & Requirements:

  • Minimum of 5 years of technical design experience
  • Degree in patternmaking/technical design preferred
  • Experience working with knit tops and woven categories including pants, skirts and shorts.
  • Strong understanding of garment construction and pattern terminology
  • Experience evaluating fit and reviewing samples
  • Knowledge of grading and measurement specifications
  • Experience creating and maintaining technical packages
  • Proficiency in PLM systems, Adobe Illustrator, Microsoft Office / Excel
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Clear communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to manage multiple development timelines
  • Problem-solving mindset with strong technical curiosity


Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk, working on a computer, standing and bending.

  • Must be able to lift 15 pounds occasionally.
  • Must be able to access and navigate various departments at the organization's facilities.


Benefits at a Glance

At J.McLaughlin, we design our benefits with the same care and intention as our product. Our benefits are designed to support well-being, flexibility, and long-term growth.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company match (eligibility based on hours worked)
  • Generous paid time off and paid holidays
  • Hybrid or flexible work environment (role-dependent)
  • Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage
  • Optional Critical Illness and Accident insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Clothing allowance and generous discounts on J.McLaughlin merchandise
  • Discretionary bonus opportunities (role-dependent)
  • Employee referral incentives and commuter benefits


Pay Transparency & Disclaimer

$80,000 - $95,000 depending on experience, skills, and qualifications.

Compensation and benefits may vary based on role, location, and eligibility. J.McLaughlin reserves the right to modify compensation and benefit programs at any time, in accordance with applicable laws.

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