Technical Apparel Designer - Veridian

Company Overview

Since 1992,
Veridan Fire Protective Gear has grown to be an industry leader in the production of high-quality, innovative fire protective garments and accessories. Acquired by Lakeland Fire + Safety at the conclusion of 2024, Veridian joins a global network of PPE brands producing a range of protective apparel that spans across oil & gas, the fire service, aerospace, electric utilities, clean rooms and controlled environments, hazardous waste sites, and more.

Veridian Fire Protective Gear products are worn by first responders and military personnel across the globe. Our employees share a sense of pride contributing to the life saving actions of first responders worldwide. At Veridian, we look for unique talent, skills, and above all else passion. Veridian is an all-hands in, and hands-on environment, with an entrepreneurial spirit. Employees at Veridian are trusted to work independently, but are team players at heart: sharing ideas, support and resources.

We are seeking an experienced full-time, onsite, Technical Apparel Designer to join our Fire product development team. This vital position is located in Des Moines, Iowa at Veridian's headquarters and glove manufacturing production facility but will include occasional travel. Important to note the production environment includes loud equipment, fabric dust, cowhide leather
, and yes, the occasional visit from our office dog, Bentley.

The position's scope includes continuous improvement to the fit and functionality of all current lines, along with developing the next generation of products. In this position, you will be instrumental in executing all aspects of the design and development process from initial development to in-line production process improvements. We don't draw boundaries between creative and technical design, development, engineering, or as we call it product realization.

This role is ideal for someone eager to engage in the full product lifecycle — from meeting end users and ideating new solutions, to revising construction and patterns, collaborating with vendors on materials, analyzing production efficiency, educating operators and sales teams, and troubleshooting quality or testing challenges.

Because this team moves quickly, we are seeking a candidate with a solid foundation of experience who can adapt and contribute at a rapid pace. Training will be provided, but the expectation is that you can step into a variety of responsibilities with confidence.

We’ve been intentional in outlining the breadth of responsibilities, as all of these areas will be part of the role at different times. For the right candidate, there is no limit to what can be achieved — your passion, skills, and expertise will help drive our ongoing pursuit of innovation and excellence.

• Design or redesign products as determined by Product Management.
• Independently document the product development process including sourcing, costing, sample revision, feedback, wear trials, etc.
• Accurately provide costing of production processes by performing sampling, time studies, and efficiency improvements.
• Audit bills of material and operations to calculate margin of existing product.
• Pattern development, maintenance, alteration and customization within Lectra Accumark Pattern Design Software (PDS).
• Pattern grading and model creation within Lectra Accumark PDS.
• Maintenance of product library for digital cutting platform.
• Sew or construct first samples and prototypes using industrial sewing equipment.
• Train or work closely with the production line to transfer new product design or process information to the production team.
• Creation and maintenance of illustrated technical package and work instructions combining work in Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, and Excel.
• Development of Bill of Materials, Cutters Must, Order of Operations, Construction call outs, Seam and Stitch Identification, etc.
• Write technical specifications for reference by sales, customers, and marketing.
• Photograph products and perform minor editing in Adobe Photoshop.
• Prepare and maintain product labeling and user information resources.
• Create art sheets for product…