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Flexible Pattern Grading Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Senior Product Developer

Boston, MA · On-site

$82K - $105K/yr

... patterns, and production processes. Past exposure to developing and implementing new lasts ... Knowledge of grading. • Proven record of solving problems creatively. • Excellent communication ...

... patterns, and production processes. Past exposure to developing and implementing new lasts ... Knowledge of grading. Proven record of solving problems creatively. Excellent communication ...

Flexible Pattern Grading information

What is flexible pattern grading?

Flexible pattern grading is a process in the fashion and apparel industry where pattern sizes are adjusted to create a range of sizes for a garment, while allowing for custom modifications to accommodate different body shapes or design requirements. This approach differs from traditional grading by offering more adaptability and precision, ensuring that garments fit a wider variety of body types. Flexible pattern grading often utilizes digital tools to streamline adjustments and improve fit consistency across sizes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a flexible pattern grader?

To thrive as a Flexible Pattern Grader, you need strong knowledge of garment construction, pattern making, and grading principles, often backed by a degree or certification in fashion design or apparel technology. Familiarity with CAD pattern-making software such as Gerber AccuMark or Lectra is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication with design and production teams are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure accurate sizing, efficient production, and high-quality finished garments.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by professionals in flexible pattern grading, and how can they be overcome?

Professionals in Flexible Pattern Grading often encounter challenges such as adapting patterns to a wide variety of body types and fabric behaviors, maintaining accuracy while working under tight deadlines, and collaborating effectively with designers and production teams. To overcome these hurdles, it's important to stay updated on the latest grading software, communicate clearly with team members, and develop a keen eye for detail. Continuous learning and hands-on experience with different garments and materials can also help professionals anticipate and resolve common grading issues efficiently.

What is the difference between Flexible Pattern Grading vs Pattern Maker?

AspectFlexible Pattern GradingPattern Maker
CredentialsTypically requires pattern grading certifications or trainingUsually holds pattern drafting or sewing certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in design studios, manufacturing, or apparel companiesWorks in pattern development, sample rooms, or manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageUsed across fashion, apparel, and costume industriesPrimarily in fashion, apparel, and costume design

Flexible Pattern Grading focuses on adjusting existing patterns to different sizes, ensuring proper fit across sizes. Pattern Makers create original patterns from sketches or designs, developing the initial templates for garments. While both roles require knowledge of garment construction, grading emphasizes size adjustments, whereas pattern making involves creating new patterns from scratch.

What are popular job titles related to Flexible Pattern Grading jobs in Massachusetts?

For Flexible Pattern Grading jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Flexible Pattern Grading jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Flexible Pattern Grading jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Flexible Pattern Grading jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Flexible Pattern Grading job openings:

Senior Product Developer

New Balance

Boston, MA • On-site

$82K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


New Balance rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 104 rated fashion retailers


Job description

Who We Are:
Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.
JOB MISSION:
The Senior Product Developer fully coordinates tasks with team members for a category or collection of products demonstrating strong project management skills by maintaining transparency and issue escalation to maintain organizational alignment.
MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
• Leads and coordinates the product development for projects and monitor any associated deadlines.
• Responsible for maintaining open lines of communication with the sourcing, engineering, product management, design and development teams.
• Utilizes knowledge of shoe construction and manufacturing processes to evaluate prototypes.
• Identifies potential issues relating to material test data, technical wear test data, and technical drawings.
• Drives Product Validation process on all new models to ensure they meet all of the performance, fit, and specification requirements to ensure consistent product quality.
• Able to engage in product teardowns and cost analysis; can make recommendations to balance cost, manufacturability, and design.
• Able to do color ups, material ups, new uppers, and exposure to new tools. Maintains timelines and pro-actively identifies problems.
REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
• Bachelor's degree, Engineering degree a plus
• Minimum of 4 years development experience; 4 years footwear; experience with problem solving tools.
• Solid understanding of technical drawings, molding processes, materials, wear test data, footwear technology, patterns, and production processes. Past exposure to developing and implementing new lasts. Knowledge of grading.
• Proven record of solving problems creatively.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Domestic and international travel may be required
Boston, MA Headquarters - (NB) Only Pay Range: $82,000.00 - $105,800.00 - $129,600.00 Annual (actual base pay varying based upon, but not limited to, relevant experience, time in role, internal equity, geographic location, and more.)
Regular Associate Benefits
Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks - opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs - that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You'll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword - it's part of our culture.
Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.
Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.
Flexible Work Schedule
For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced "Work from Anywhere" (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.
Equal Opportunity Employer
New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.

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