Athletic Apparel Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

At DICK'S Sporting Goods, we believe in how positively sports can change lives. On our team, everyone plays a critical role in creating confidence and excitement by personally equipping all athletes to achieve their dreams. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workforce, reflecting the communities we serve.

If you are ready to make a difference as part of the world's greatest sports team, apply to join our team today!

OVERVIEW:

Note: As part of the application process for this role, please provide a portfolio of work for review.

The Designer is responsible for the entire design process for a specific apparel category or brand within the DICK's Sporting Goods portfolio of vertical brands. This includes completing global market research to identify trends and innovation, trend board creation, designing, sketching, tech packs and establishing expression of fit. The Designer must identify the needs of his/her target athlete and develop a product vision that aligns to these needs. Through the design of the upcoming seasonal product assortment, the Designer must bring his/her vision to life.

Core competencies required in this role include identifying and interpreting trend, sketching and design capabilities, establishing the expression of garment fit and knowledge of garment construction, fabric and trim. The Designer will work closely with the Design leadership team to align the design integrity of each season with the brand's aesthetic, drive differentiation in product offerings and create assortments that expand the market share of his/her assigned brand.

The ideal candidate for the role is a seasoned apparel designer, with relevant experience in the product categories he/she will lead (athletic, outdoor, golf) at a successful design firm or retailer. In addition, the ideal candidate must demonstrate a strong fashion sense, trend awareness and the ability to turn research into actionable strategies. Designers lead a team of 2-3 Associate/Assistant Designers by driving accountability, mentoring and providing actionable feedback and coaching.

Manage and Drive the Design Process:

• Own the seasonal line direction from concept to production for all product and assortment needs by owning the design and development process, leading the creation of product and driving the creative direction by executing innovative design solutions, incorporating technology, color, fabric/finish standards, print and pattern, trim and expression of fit for multiple products/genders/demographic based on category.

• Develop silhouette and product classifications, within the framework of the assortment plan, to reflect a balance between fashion/trend as well as core and emerging businesses for presentation to and selection by the Merchant and Product Development team.

• Responsible for the accurate and timely completion of tech pack creation and handoff to tech designers; coordinates the design and development process for multiple products/categories from concept sketches and technical packs through final prototype/adoption.

• Attend seasonal fit analysis and weekly fit sessions to drive the expression of fit for multiple brands. Work in partnership with the fabric specialist to achieve costing and aesthetic goals for the seasonal fabric palette.

• Communicate with overseas partners on trends, details and communicates any required changes to ensure the design vision for the brand is met.

• Present during seasonal line review with Leadership across Product Development and Merchandising with guidance from the Director of Design. Drive follow-up actions resulting from collaborative conversations throughout the feedback process.

Competitive Positioning (Market Research/Analysis)

• Research emerging trends across silhouette, fabric, trim and fit/styling in order to develop a seasonal assortment in alignment with the marketplace and athlete needs

• Research, establish, differentiate and communicate technology and fabric platforms for your business category.

• Introduce new initiatives and innovative ways to update key item programs based on information and inspiration from trade shows, online research, meeting with vendors, conducting competitive and aspirational shopping.

• Provide solutions for department challenges and new growth opportunities to Director of Design for alignment.

• Shop the market, including our stores, with product management and merchants to promote partnership and increase the understanding of each other's point of view. Collaborate with product management and merchants on a consistent basis to ensure that product has a singular point of view.

Time and Action:

• Ensure team adheres to the Time & Action calendar for their product/category.

• Supervise and provide guidance to teammates on key deliverables within the development calendar, holding teammate accountable to deadlines. This includes organizing and monitoring workload to ensure priority deliverables are fast tracked.

Supervise & Develop Talent

• Manage execution responsibilities and workload of direct/indirect reports to achieve department deliverables on time and with quality. Share timely and actionable feedback with teammates on deliverables to ensure accountability, coach and mentor as needed.

• Drive talent selection process for open direct report positions; Ensure all direct reports are appropriately trained and on-boarded

• Train and mentor new hires into roles by sharing experience, knowledge and best practices.

• Provide direct reports with timely and regular feedback to support teammate development/ growth in role.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's Degree in Design, Fine Arts, or related degree
• 7+ years design experience in apparel design; previous management experience preferred

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VIRTUAL REQUIREMENTS:

At DICK'S, we thrive on innovation and authenticity. That said, to protect the integrity and security of our hiring process, we ask that candidatesdo not use AI tools(like ChatGPT or others) during interviews or assessments.

To ensure a smooth and secure experience, please note the following:

• Cameras must be onduring all virtual interviews.

• AI tools are not permittedto be used by the candidateduring any part of the interview process.

• Offers are contingent upon a satisfactory background check which may include ID verification.

If you have any questions or need accommodations, we're here to help. Thanks for helping us keep the process fair and secure for everyone!