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Director Apparel Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Columbia Sportswear Company

$110 - $140/hr

The Sr. Apparel Product Fit Engineer contributes to the product development process by working ... Influential without direct authority, able to build consensus and guide cross‑functional teams ...

MrBeast

Director of Apparel Design

New York, NY

... developers can execute without guesswork Own the construction pages within tech packs, bringing a ... directing designers and integrating graphic applications into apparel design Strong seasonal ...

MrBeast

Director of Apparel Design

New York, NY · On-site

... developers can execute without guesswork Own the construction pages within tech packs, bringing a ... directing designers and integrating graphic applications into apparel design Strong seasonal ...

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Activewear Apparel Product Developer

New York, NY · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

We are looking for an Activewear Apparel Product Developer who is passionate about building high ... You will have a direct impact on product development, not just support one small piece of the ...

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Director Apparel Engineer information

See salary details

$73K

$194.7K

$254K

How much do director apparel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for director apparel engineer in the United States is $194,709.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,500.00 and $253,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a director apparel engineer?

A Director Apparel Engineer is a senior professional who oversees the engineering and technical aspects of apparel production within a company. This role involves leading teams to develop efficient manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality, and integrating innovative technologies in clothing design and production. The Director collaborates with design, production, and supply chain teams to optimize workflows, reduce costs, and meet sustainability goals. They are also responsible for staying updated on industry trends and regulatory standards to maintain a competitive edge.

How does a director apparel engineer collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure product quality and innovation?

A Director Apparel Engineer typically works closely with design, production, sourcing, and quality assurance teams to drive product development from concept through manufacturing. They facilitate communication between creative and technical departments to ensure that designs are both innovative and manufacturable at scale. Regular meetings, prototype reviews, and technical workshops are common, allowing the Director to address challenges early and ensure alignment on quality standards, timelines, and cost targets. This collaborative approach helps achieve high-quality, market-ready apparel that meets both aesthetic and functional requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director apparel engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Apparel Engineer, you need a solid background in textile engineering, garment construction, and apparel production management, usually supported by a relevant engineering or fashion degree. Familiarity with CAD software, PLM systems, and quality assurance methodologies is typically required, along with knowledge of manufacturing technologies. Strong leadership, project management, and cross-functional communication skills help you lead teams and drive innovation. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient production, high-quality products, and successful collaboration across design, manufacturing, and business functions.

What is the difference between Director Apparel Engineer vs Apparel Product Manager?

AspectDirector Apparel EngineerApparel Product Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Textile Engineering, Fashion Design, or related field; often requires experience in apparel engineeringBachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Fashion, or related; may require experience in product management
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsMarketing teams, product development, sales departments
Employer & Industry UsageApparel brands, manufacturers, textile companiesFashion brands, retail companies, apparel companies

The main difference is that a Director Apparel Engineer focuses on technical aspects of apparel design, development, and manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality and innovation. In contrast, an Apparel Product Manager oversees product lifecycle, market strategy, and sales coordination. Both roles are vital in the apparel industry but serve different functions related to engineering versus product management.

What cities are hiring for Director Apparel Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Director Apparel Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Apparel Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Apparel Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Director Apparel Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Director Apparel Engineer jobs include:

Director Apparel Engineer jobs near you

Sr. Apparel Product Fit Engineer

Columbia Sportswear

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Columbia Sportswear rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 91 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 104 rated fashion retailers

Job description

This position is designated as a hybrid role based out of our headquarters near Portland, Oregon. The current expectation is for employees to work onsite four days per week, subject to change based on business needs. This in-office requirement may be adjusted at the discretion of the company.

The Sr. Apparel Product Fit Engineer contributes to the product development process by working closely with all functions within Product Creation to optimize garment fit and manufacturability. Remains true to the needs of the product and end user, while considering manufacturability of the product.

HOW YOU'LL MAKE A DIFFERENCE

  • Partner closely with Merchandising, Design, Product Development, Materials Research, Quality Assurance, Development Centers, and global merchandising teams to deliver a seamless apparel engineering process.
  • Lead and participate in fit sessions, ensuring consistency across styles and categories throughout the product development lifecycle.
  • Validate product fit and comfort for the consumer, clearly communicating fit-related recommendations and solutions to both domestic and international partners.
  • Collaborate with Fit Engineering leadership to establish and maintain fit standards, measurement parameters, quality requirements, and construction specifications.
  • Build and maintain accurate measurement charts in PDM, ensuring fit, pattern, and specification details are documented throughout development.
  • Review and approve graded size specifications from factories and development centers.
  • Develop tools, systems, and processes that improve efficiency and accuracy while managing a high-volume product workload.
  • Partner with Product Developers to identify and communicate construction details that impact garment fit and performance.
  • Provide fit leadership during prototype evaluations, ensuring products meet design intent, merchandising objectives, fit standards, and quality expectations.
  • Recommend and implement process improvements that streamline fittings and accelerate product creation.

YOU ARE

  • A collaborative partner who builds strong relationships across functions and geographies.
  • Experience working with product development teams and cross-functional apparel creation partners.
  • A fit and apparel construction expert who understands how product decisions impact consumer experience.
  • An effective communicator who can explain technical fit and construction concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Strong data analysis, measurement interpretation, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to collaborate with global partners.
  • Strong organizational skills and exceptional attention to detail.
  • Detail-oriented and highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • A proactive problem solver who works independently while knowing when to seek alignment on complex issues.
  • Process-minded and innovative, always looking for ways to improve efficiency and product quality.
  • Influential without direct authority, able to build consensus and guide cross-functional teams toward decisions.
  • A trusted resource and mentor for teammates, sharing subject matter expertise and supporting team success.
  • Comfortable operating with a high degree of autonomy while contributing to broader business objectives.

YOU HAVE

  • Bachelor's degree, relevant certification, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 5+ years of professional experience, preferably in patternmaking, garment engineering, fit engineering, or apparel development.
  • 8+ years in fit engineering/apparel development preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of patternmaking, grading, garment construction, fit engineering, and apparel manufacturing processes.
  • Familiarity with PDM systems and measurement specification management.
  • Patternmaking and grading software skills preferred.
  • Experience supporting apparel development in Asia and/or large-scale factory environments is a plus.
  • Understanding of outdoor apparel consumers, retail channels, and industry trends preferred.

#LI-CR1

This job description is not meant to be an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities, but constitutes a general definition of the position's scope and function in the company.

Columbia Sportswear Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. Columbia Sportswear is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12.pdf. If you need reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please notify your recruiter.At Columbia Sportswear Company, we're proud to offer regular full-time employees a benefits package that includes a variety of services and products to help make your life and work more rewarding. Our benefit programs contribute to overall employee well-being by aligning those programs with the fundamental elements of well-being: physical, social/emotional, financial, career and community. Benefits that can protect your family's financial future and help you save money through our 401k plan plus a generous company match. Columbia offers medical, dental, vision, life Insurance, disability, flexible spending accounts, health savings account, and an assortment of voluntary benefit offerings (accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and legal services). In addition, Columbia offers EAP + which is free and confidential 24/7/365 counseling services. We have extensive wellness benefits, employee discounts and a generous time off program available.If you need an accommodation/adjustment to successfully complete and submit your application, please reach out to AskHR@columbia.com with the Subject: Applicant Assistance Requested.

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About Columbia Sportswear

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Columbia Sportswear Company and our portfolio of brands, including Columbia, SOREL, Mountain Hardwear and prAna, know a thing or two about adventures. After all, we've been on one since 1938, working to perfect the art of enjoying the outdoors. Behind everything we make is an employee who's found that the greatest adventure starts with joining a company that strives to do the right thing.

Industry

Apparel and accessories stores

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1938

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