1

Apparel Technical Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Manager, Technical Design

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Attend fittings to develop and establish Regular and Plus size apparel. * Establish fit and quality ... Build and maintain technical design data libraries in Centric PLM. * Create fit blocks and product ...

PBS Technical Design Manager

Lynnwood, WA · On-site

$184K - $213K/yr

Position Summary The Technical Design Manager leads the technical design function for apparel, overseeing fit execution from development through bulk production while ensuring garments meet Zumiez ...

Technical Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$112K - $113K/yr

The Technical Design Manager is responsible for working closely with the Development team to ensure apparel products meet the highest standards of fit, construction, and quality. This role focuses on ...

Significant technical design experience with fabric and garment construction, pattern/blocks and ... Prior experience working in an apparel retail company * Ability to assess relatively complex ...

Technical Design Manager

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$112K - $113K/yr

We embrace working hard, being kind and doing right by our customers, aiming to set a higher standard for the apparel industry. The Technical Design Manager is responsible for working closely with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Apparel Technical Design information

See salary details

$35.5K

$80.3K

$126K

How much do apparel technical design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for apparel technical design in the United States is $80,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $92,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an Apparel Technical Designer typically collaborate with pattern makers and production teams during the development process?

Apparel Technical Designers work closely with pattern makers to ensure that design sketches are translated accurately into production-ready patterns. They review and adjust technical specifications, fit samples, and construction details, often providing feedback after fittings. Collaboration with production teams is essential for troubleshooting manufacturing issues, refining garment construction methods, and ensuring that finished products meet quality and fit standards. Regular communication and teamwork help streamline the process from initial concept to final product delivery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apparel Technical Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apparel Technical Designer, you need a strong background in garment construction, pattern making, and textile knowledge, often supported by a degree in fashion design or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software (such as Adobe Illustrator or CLO 3D), technical specification tools, and garment fitting procedures is essential. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with design and production teams and ensure accuracy in technical packages. These capabilities are crucial for delivering well-fitting, manufacturable apparel that meets design intent and quality standards.

What is the difference between Apparel Technical Design vs Apparel Pattern Maker?

AspectApparel Technical DesignApparel Pattern Maker
Primary FocusCreating technical specifications, fit standards, and construction details for garmentsDeveloping and drafting garment patterns based on design concepts
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of technical design software, fit analysis, and industry standardsPattern drafting, grading, and sewing techniques
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with designers, production teams, and technical staffWorks closely with technical designers and sample makers
Industry UsageCommonly employed in apparel brands, manufacturers, and technical design teamsPrimarily found in pattern making departments within apparel companies

Apparel Technical Design and Apparel Pattern Maker roles are closely related but distinct. Technical designers focus on translating design concepts into technical specifications and ensuring fit and construction standards, while pattern makers develop the physical patterns used to produce garments. Both roles require specialized skills and often collaborate throughout the product development process.

What is apparel technical design?

Apparel technical design is the process of transforming fashion design concepts into ready-to-produce garments by focusing on fit, construction, and technical specifications. Technical designers work closely with fashion designers, pattern makers, and manufacturers to create detailed tech packs, oversee sample development, and ensure garments meet quality and sizing standards. They act as the bridge between creative design and production, solving technical issues to ensure the final product fits well and is manufacturable.
More about Apparel Technical Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Apparel Technical Design jobs? Cities with the most Apparel Technical Design job openings:
What states have the most Apparel Technical Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Apparel Technical Design jobs include:
Technical Designer - Rockfit

Technical Designer - Rockfit

FAM Brands

Beverly Hills, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

The Technical Designer in Fam Brands is responsible for overseeing the technical development of products from concept through production, ensuring each garment meets the highest standards of fit, construction, quality, and craftsmanship. This role partners closely with Design, Product Development, and Production teams to translate creative vision into technically sound, production-ready pieces while preserving design integrity.

The Technical Designer manages the fit process, creates and maintains detailed technical documentation, and communicates clear construction and measurement standards to vendors and factories. This position plays a critical role in upholding brand quality, driving consistency across categories, and ensuring timelines are met without compromising precision or detail.

Key Responsibilities:

Technical Specifications & Development / Fit and Function / Collaboration / Fabric and Trim Testing / Process Improvement / Quality Assurance

  • Partner cross-functionally with Design, Merchandising, Product Development, and Production to ensure alignment on brand aesthetic, seasonal timelines, and key product details while proactively identifying and resolving development risks.
  • Create and maintain detailed technical packages in collaboration with Design, clearly outlining garment measurements, fit intent, construction standards, and quality expectations across product categories.
  • Lead and manage technical fit sessions, leveraging prior development history to evaluate samples, identify discrepancies against specifications, and uphold fit consistency and performance standards.
  • Provide thorough, actionable fit comments using PLM and digital tools to support critical development milestones and ensure timely sample approvals.
  • Maintain fit blocks, grading standards, construction libraries, and sample tracking reports to support consistency and efficiency throughout the development process.
  • Oversee fit development from initial handoff through pre-production approval, including graded specification review and approval for bulk production to ensure on-time delivery.
  • Analyze competitive products and market trends to inform fit, construction, and product enhancements aligned with target customer expectations.
  • Contribute to ongoing product improvement initiatives in partnership with Technical Design leadership.
  • Communicate directly with domestic and international vendors, including participation in meetings across time zones as needed.
Qualifications:
  • Education:

    • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design, Technical Design, Apparel Development, or related field.
  • Experience:

    • 3-7 years of experience in apparel technical design, pattern making, and pattern analysis, with a strong understanding of the product lifecycle from concept through production.
  • Skills:

    • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word) and Google Workspace.
    • Proficiency in PLM systems (Centric experience preferred).
    • Expertise in Adobe Illustrator and other design software.
    • Familiarity or proficiency with Gerber pattern making software and/or 3D design platforms such as CLO or Browzwear is preferred.
    • Knowledge of pattern making, grading, garment construction, sewing techniques, technical drawing, measuring, and leading fit sessions.
    • Experience working directly with Pattern Engineers (both internal and overseas) to execute fit intent and construction standards.
    • Strong understanding of garment construction methods across multiple fabrications, including woven, knit, and engineered knit categories.
    • Ability to effectively communicate with international vendors and cross-functional teams on a regular basis (written and verbal).
    • Exposure to international manufacturing and production environments is a plus.
    • Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple seasons and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Additional Qualifications:

    • Knowledge of activewear trends and market demands.
    • Familiarity with performance fabric properties and testing.
    • Experience working with international vendors and factories is a plus.