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Apparel Design Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Degree in Apparel/Fashion Design/Textile/Print/Graphic Design * 7-10 years of experience * Strong design and conceptual skills * Strong knowledge of textiles, artwork techniques & fabric

Mens Apparel Designer - Denim

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

$37.05 - $39.42/hr

Design compelling assortments for assigned categories - Mens Denim Pants and Shorts * Develop ... BA or equivalent coursework in Apparel preferred * 3-4 years of experience in Apparel Design

SVP of Women's Design

Seattle, WA · On-site

$261K - $375K/yr

Degree in Fashion Design, Business, or related field preferred. * 15+ years of experience in women's apparel design including leadership of large and complex design organizations, showing a pattern ...

SVP of Women's Design

Seattle, WA · On-site

$261K - $375K/yr

Degree in Fashion Design, Business, or related field preferred. * 15+ years of experience in women's apparel design including leadership of large and complex design organizations, showing a pattern ...

SVP of Women's Design

Seattle, WA · On-site

$261K - $375K/yr

Degree in Fashion Design, Business, or related field preferred. * 15+ years of experience in women's apparel design including leadership of large and complex design organizations, showing a pattern ...

Senior Product Developer - Licensed Brands

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

$140K - $184K/yr

BA degree in Apparel Design, Product Development, or related field. * 7+ years of experience in apparel product development, design, production, or related function preferred, with demonstrated ...

New

BA degree in Apparel Design, Product Development, or related field. * At least 2 years of experience in apparel development, design, or related function preferred. * Strong Illustrator, Excel, Word ...

BA degree in Apparel Design, Product Development, or related field. * 5-6 years of experience in apparel development, design, or related function preferred. * Proficient with Adobe CS - Illustrator ...

TEMP Technical Design Assistant

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

$41K - $48K/yr

This role is a great opportunity for someone with foundational apparel technical design experience who is looking to grow within apparel fit, construction, pattern review, sample tracking, and cross ...

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Apparel Design information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$37.6K

$79.1K

$119.6K

How much do apparel design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for apparel design in Seattle, WA is $79,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,100.00 and $101,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is apparel design?

Apparel design is the process of creating clothing and accessories by conceptualizing, sketching, and developing garment ideas. Designers consider factors such as fabric, color, functionality, and style to produce wearable and appealing fashion pieces. They may work for fashion brands, manufacturers, or as independent creators, and their work involves staying up-to-date with trends and understanding consumer preferences.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an apparel designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apparel Designer, you need strong skills in fashion design, garment construction, textile knowledge, and often a degree in fashion or a related field. Proficiency with design software like Adobe Illustrator, CAD systems, and familiarity with industry-standard pattern-making tools is crucial. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help set designers apart in a competitive market. These abilities are vital for translating ideas into marketable garments that meet consumer trends and production standards.

What are some common challenges faced by apparel designers when collaborating with production teams?

Apparel designers often encounter challenges in translating creative concepts into technically feasible garments, especially when working closely with production teams. Differences in material availability, cost constraints, and manufacturing capabilities can require designers to adjust their original ideas. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as designers must frequently provide detailed specifications and adapt their designs to ensure both aesthetic quality and production efficiency. Building strong relationships with pattern makers and manufacturers helps streamline this process and leads to better final products.

What is the difference between Apparel Design vs Fashion Design?

AspectApparel DesignFashion Design
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in fashion or apparel designOften requires a fashion design degree or related certification
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, manufacturing facilities, retailRunway shows, design studios, fashion houses
Industry UsageFocuses on clothing production and technical designEncompasses the broader fashion industry, including trends and branding

Apparel Design primarily focuses on creating clothing items and technical specifications, while Fashion Design covers the broader scope of fashion trends, runway collections, and branding. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in work environments, but Apparel Design is more technical and production-oriented, whereas Fashion Design emphasizes creativity and trendsetting.

What can you do with a degree in apparel design?

A degree in apparel design prepares individuals for careers such as fashion designer, technical designer, product developer, or stylist. Graduates can work in clothing manufacturing, retail, or start their own fashion brands, often utilizing skills in CAD software, fabric selection, and trend analysis.

What does an apparel designer do?

An apparel designer creates clothing and accessory designs, developing concepts, sketches, and prototypes based on fashion trends and client needs. They use design software like Adobe Illustrator and may collaborate with pattern makers and manufacturers to bring their designs to production.

What are the most commonly searched types of Apparel Design jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Apparel Design jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Apparel Design jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Apparel Design jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Apparel Design jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Apparel Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Apparel Design job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,131 per year, or $38 per hour.

Adjunct Faculty Pool - Apparel Design and Merchandising

Seattle Pacific University

Seattle, WA

$800 - $950/wk

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

SPU's Apparel Design and Merchandising Program is an area in the College of Business and Technology that offers undergraduate majors in Apparel Design, Apparel Merchandising, and a minor in Apparel Design and Merchandising, provides students with excellent preparation for professional careers in the industry.

Our program is committed to building an excellent and diverse faculty who desire to be part of a supportive Christian community in which students are prepared to become responsible and effective servant-leaders.


What we need:

Adjunct faculty position in apparel design and merchandising.

Courses:Apparel Design, Basic Sewing, Flat Pattern, Draping, Fashion Illustration, Fashion Show Production, Visual Merchandising, Apparel Production, Retailing, Retail Mathematics, Global Sourcing, CAD Design, Portfolio, History of Fashion, Appearance and Culture, Textiles.

Responsibilities:Teach a course including grading and holding office hours.


Requirements:

  • Preferred master's degree or PhDin a relevant field.

  • Bachelor's degree applicants will be considered if accompanied with significant industry (+ 5 years) and/or teaching experience.

  • A personal commitment to Christian faith,enthusiasmabout supportingSPU's mission, alignmentwith theUniversity'sStatement of Faith, and willingnessto accept the lifestyle standards of the Christian community.

Compensation:

$800 - $950 per credit, DOE

Additional Information:

To Apply: Complete the online application through the Workday Careers site. Please attach a resume/CV and cover letter in the online application process.

Inquiries relation to apparel merchandising and design courses should be addressed to:

Gwia Kim, Assistant Professor of Apparel Design and Merchandising Program

College of Business and Technoloty

206-281-2465, gkim@spu.edu