Apparel Color Designer

Apparel Color Designer

Our client is seeking an experienced Apparel Color Designer to drive the execution of color across a fast‑paced, high‑volume apparel product line. This role focuses on translating creative direction, consumer insights, and market trends into compelling, market‑ready color solutions. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic environment, collaborates seamlessly with cross‑functional partners, and brings a strong point of view grounded in apparel color design execution.

This role is a hybrid model in Beaverton, Oregon.

• Execute end‑to‑end color design for apparel products, ensuring color intent is accurately realized in final production.
• Own color outcomes across the product lifecycle, including reviewing samples, confirming changes, and driving final color approvals.
• Develop and maintain color calendars, timelines, and seasonal deliverables to support on‑time execution.
• Partner closely with design, product development, merchandising, and materials teams to align color solutions with product and market goals.
• Create and manage color assets, including line art, digital color files, product data systems, and sample coordination.
• Contribute to seasonal color direction by translating trend, consumer, and market insights into retailable color stories.
• Research consumer behavior, competitive landscapes, and cultural trends to inform relevant and compelling color solutions.
• Present color direction and seasonal color strategies clearly and effectively to cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Continuously build functional expertise in color, materials, tools, and processes to elevate overall design impact.

• Proven experience in true apparel color design, with a strong emphasis on execution rather than general color development.
• Prior experience with a large, fast‑paced apparel brand; experience within global athletic or lifestyle brands is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Microsoft Office tools; comfort working within digital product and color management systems.
• Familiarity with AI‑enabled design tools (such as Vizcom or similar) is a plus.
• Strong understanding of apparel materials, manufacturing considerations, and color application at scale.
• Ability to manage multiple work streams simultaneously while meeting tight timelines and shifting priorities.
• Clear, confident communicator with experience presenting creative work to diverse audiences.
• Bachelor’s degree in design or a related field, with approximately 2–4 years of directly relevant professional experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

As an eligible contract employee with Vander Houwen, you’ll have access to a full suite of benefits designed with your well‑being in mind. Our comprehensive package includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑ and long‑term disability, and a matching 401(k) to help secure your future.

What kind of recruiter do you see yourself working with? One who prioritizes your best interest, no matter what? Vander Houwen does, and we’re in it for the long game! Our recruiters focus on YOU, building meaningful, long‑term relationships while developing a deep understanding of companies’ staffing needs and workplace cultures. This approach helps us find an ideal job match that aligns with your unique career aspirations and goals.

Vander Houwen is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E‑Verify. Vander Houwen does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local, state, or federal civil rights laws.