1

Pattern Making Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Technical Designer, Young Adult

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $128K/yr

Software Proficiency in pattern making software, Excel, Google Sheets preferred. * Attention to Detail: Exceptional accuracy in creating and reviewing technical specifications. * Ability to thrive in ...

Soft Goods Designer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$137K/yr

Lead the design and technical development of the MO/GO integration pant from concept through production - pattern making, material selection, fit iteration, and factory handoff * Define the ...

Senior Technical Designer

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Expert knowledge of fit, pattern making, grading, garment construction, sewing, and technical drawing * Exceptional eye to identify fit issues and recommend fit solutions for men's and women ...

Expert knowledge of fit, pattern making, grading, garment construction, sewing, and technical drawing * Exceptional eye to identify fit issues and recommend fit solutions for men's and women ...

Minimum 5 years of experience in technical design, pattern making, or quality assurance, or a combination of education and work experience. * High School Diploma required a four (4)-year college ...

Minimum 5 years of experience in technical design, pattern making, or quality assurance, or a combination of education and work experience. * High School Diploma required a four (4)-year college ...

Garment Developer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Bachelors degree (7+ years combined college education, pattern-making training and work experience may be substituted for a degree); Design school degree a plus. " * Minimum 5 years experience ...

Minimum 5 years of experience in technical design, pattern making, or quality assurance, or a combination of education and work experience. * High School Diploma required a four (4)-year college ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Pattern Making information

See California salary details

$33.1K

$76.4K

$124.3K

How much do pattern making jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for pattern making in California is $76,363.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,400.00 and $84,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Pattern Makers in the apparel industry?

Pattern Makers often encounter challenges such as accommodating unique design specifications while ensuring garments maintain proper fit and functionality. Balancing creative vision with technical limitations, especially when working with new fabrics or manufacturing processes, can require innovative problem-solving. Additionally, managing tight deadlines and frequent iterations with design and production teams demands strong organizational skills. Collaborating closely with designers, sample makers, and production staff is key to overcoming these challenges and achieving high-quality, finished products.

How much do patternmakers make?

Pattern makers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Skilled pattern makers with advanced knowledge of CAD software and sewing techniques can earn higher salaries, especially in fashion and apparel manufacturing environments.

What is a Pattern Making job?

A Pattern Making job involves creating templates or blueprints for garments, accessories, or other textile-based products. Pattern makers translate design sketches into accurate patterns that guide the cutting and sewing process in production. They use specialized software or manual techniques to ensure proper fit, proportions, and construction details. Precision and attention to detail are essential, as patterns dictate the final look and functionality of a product.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In pattern making, highly experienced freelance pattern makers or those working with luxury fashion brands can earn around $10,000 per month, especially with specialized skills, a strong portfolio, and a good reputation. Achieving this income typically requires years of experience, advanced technical skills, and often working independently or in high-end production environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Pattern Making position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Pattern Making, a strong understanding of garment construction, dimensional accuracy, and textile properties is essential, often supported by coursework or experience in fashion design or apparel technology. Familiarity with pattern drafting software like Gerber, Optitex, or CAD systems is typically required, and formal certifications can be an advantage. Attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure the creation of functional, well-fitting garments and facilitate smooth collaboration within the production team.

How much do pattern cutters get paid?

Pattern cutters typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled pattern makers with advanced knowledge of CAD software and garment construction can earn higher salaries, especially in fashion hubs or with specialized expertise.

Do patternmakers still exist?

Yes, patternmakers still exist as skilled professionals who create detailed patterns for garments, accessories, and other products. They often work in fashion, apparel manufacturing, and costume design, using tools like pattern paper, CAD software, and sewing techniques. The role remains essential in the product development process, especially in custom and high-quality production environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Pattern Making jobs in California? The most popular types of Pattern Making jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Pattern Making jobs in California? For Pattern Making jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Pattern Making jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Pattern Making jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Pattern Making jobs? Cities in California with the most Pattern Making job openings:
Infographic showing various Pattern Making job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,363 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Senior Technical Designer, Bridesmaid Dresses

Senior Technical Designer, Bridesmaid Dresses

Quince

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Job description

ABOUT QUINCE
Founded in 2018, Quince was built to challenge the idea that nice things have to cost a lot. Our mission is simple: to make really high quality essentials for really low prices, produced fairly and sustainably. We believe everyone deserves exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design without the traditional markups. Quince is a direct-to-consumer (DTC) model that cuts out middlemen and leverages just-in-time manufacturing to minimize waste and maximize value.
Quince is a tech company disrupting the retail industry by putting AI, analytics and automation at the center of everything we do. Our unwavering commitment to excellence and company values guide our teams and actions:
  • Customer First: We prioritize customer satisfaction in every decision.
  • High Quality: True quality means premium materials and rigorous production standards you can feel good about.
  • Essential Design: We focus on timeless, functional essentials instead of chasing trends.
  • Always a Better Deal: Innovation and transparency ensure value for both customers and partners.
  • Social & Environmental Responsibility: We commit to sustainable materials, ethical production, and fair wages.

Quince partners with world-class manufacturers across the globe and serves millions of customers. With strong investor backing and a focus on sustainable growth, we are a company that is rapidly scaling while maintaining a commitment to quality, simplicity, and radical price transparency.
OUR TEAM AND SUCCESS
At Quince, you will be part of a high-performing team that is redefining what quality, value, and sustainability mean in modern retail. We are a destination for builders, innovators, and operators to come together and challenge the status quo. Our collective ambition is bold. We are creating an entirely new category and customer experience - one that democratizes luxury and provides high quality products at radically low prices. That mission demands a world-class team committed to excellence.
If you are motivated by impact, growth, and purpose, you will find a strong sense of belonging at Quince.
THE ROLE
Sr. Technical Designer, Bridesmaid Dresses
In this role, you will own and lead technical design and fit for your category.
Success in this role means turning fit into a true competitive advantage for Quince, directly impacting customer satisfaction, reducing returns, and driving repeat purchases. You will evaluate and evolve fit standards and processes, ensuring consistency and accuracy across our most important products.
This role partners closely with global teams, both internal and external, to develop fit blocks, assess samples, recommend revisions, and move products through Pre-Production approval. You will work cross-functionally with merchandising, sourcing, product development, and production to ensure fit and quality are embedded at every stage.
The goal is simple: deliver best-in-class fit, improve customer experience, and enable faster, more scalable product development as we grow.
Responsibilities
  • Build fit blocks for key styles that can be utilized as a starting point for future garment development.
  • Manage the fit process from 1st Proto to Bulk production.
  • Develop, maintain, and update technical spec pages for all styles, ensuring accuracy and consistency by category.
  • Spec garments, conduct fit sessions, and create detailed fit comments for vendors and factories.
  • Collaborate with technical design teams internationally to build fit processes that can be consistently maintained by teammates abroad.
  • Work directly with merchandising teams to maintain quality and consistency across all products while incorporating feedback based on customer and sales data.
  • Evaluate paper and digital patterns and make revisions and recommendations to perfect the fit appeal of our garments.
  • Sketch detailed flats and leverage Google Sheets and Excel for communication with internal teams and external teammates.
  • Ensure all garments align with company standards for fit, construction, and quality.
  • Troubleshoot and provide solutions for pattern and construction issues as needed.

Qualifications
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 8+ years as a technical designer with deep category expertise
  • Comprehensive understanding of pattern making, garment construction, and grading.
  • Software Proficiency in pattern making software, Excel, Google Sheets preferred.
  • Attention to Detail: Exceptional accuracy in creating and reviewing technical specifications.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Creative and resourceful in addressing technical challenges.

Physical Requirements:
  • Lifting up to 50 pounds
  • Standing and walking throughout the entirety of your shift
  • Ability to go up and down stairs, use of ladders throughout the day as needed
  • Bending, twisting, or kneeling may be required throughout the day for lifting or maneuvering objects
  • May be asked to work outside or travel to shoots off-site as needed

*This role works onsite 5 days per week in our San Francisco office. We cannot support remote or Hybrid schedules.
All posted ranges are reflective of base salary and may vary depending upon experience level and location. Bonus and equity may also be provided for eligible roles.
Pay Range
$120,000-$140,000 USD
WHY QUINCE?
Joining Quince means being part of a mission-driven team reshaping retail. You will work alongside talented colleagues, tackle meaningful challenges, and contribute to building a more sustainable, accessible future for customers and partners alike.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY & HIRING INTEGRITY
Quince provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applications for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Quince is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to complete your application or to perform the essential functions of a role at Quince, please let us know by completing this accommodation form. We review all requests individually and will work with you to determine appropriate accommodations on a case-by-case basis.
Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Quince will conduct background checks in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Security Advisory: Beware of Frauds
At Quince, we're dedicated to recruiting top talent who share our drive for innovation. To safeguard candidates, Quince emphasizes legitimate recruitment practices. Initial communication is primarily via official Quince email addresses and LinkedIn; beware of deviations. Personal data and sensitive information will not be solicited during the application phase. Interviews are conducted via phone, in person, or through the approved platforms Google Meets or Zoom-never via messaging apps or other calling services. Offers are merit-based, communicated verbally, and followed up in writing. If personal information is requested to initiate the hiring process, rest assured it will be through secure and protected means.