Designer Assistant

Designer Assistant

The Designer Assistant provides technical, administrative, and prototype development support to assigned Product Designers. This position assists with sample preparation, prototype construction, material organization, documentation management, testing support activities, and project-related tasks to help ensure development projects progress efficiently through the product development process. The Designer Assistant supports product development efforts but is not responsible for originating product concepts, managing projects, directing testing activities, or approving final product designs.

Essential Functions (Primary accountability for specific functions and results):

Serve as a positive role model and uphold Polo's corporate culture at all times. Support Product Designers in the development, modification, construction, and testing of prototypes and samples. Prepare and stage materials, components, patterns, tooling, and equipment needed for product development activities. Perform hands-on prototype tasks, including pattern preparation, material cutting, sewing, assembly, and related fabrication activities. Assist with prototype testing by preparing samples, collecting data, documenting results, and communicating findings to the Product Designer.

Maintain and organize development records, project documentation, sample inventories, and prototype files. Prepare, distribute, and support development and production documentation, including information required for production masters. Track sample status, development activities, prototype logistics, material requests, and project communications as directed. Identify and communicate construction, material, or manufacturability concerns to the Product Designer. Participate in departmental, project, and cross-functional meetings and collaborate with team members as assigned.

Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment. Maintain dependable attendance and flexibility to support business needs.

Additional Responsibilities (Not essential & could be performed by others, if necessary):

Other duties as assigned. Supports special projects and continuous improvement initiatives. Assists Engineers when workload or business needs support. Participates in training and development opportunities. Ability to flex work schedule when required.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities (minimum required):

Strong organizational and time-management skills. Ability to follow written and verbal instructions. Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, patterns, and work instructions. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Mechanical aptitude and hands-on problem-solving ability. Basic mathematical and measurement skills. Strong team player who interacts well with others.

Dimensions of Authority:

Positions that report to this position:

- N/A

Limits of authority to change subordinates' salaries, job assignments, operating policies, etc.:

- N/A

Limits of capital expenditure authority:

- N/A

Other limits to authority:

- No supervisory, project ownership, design approval, customer approval, or production release authority.

Position Requirements (minimum required):

To perform at a proficient level and to be fully qualified, a person would be expected to have:

Education:

- High school diploma or equivalent required. Technical coursework or associate degree in a related field preferred.

Experience:

- Experience with sewing, sample construction, manufacturing, prototype development, or technical support activities preferred.

Licenses/Certifications:

(minimum required) - N/A

Physical Requirements (minimum required):

Performs visual work on a computer for long periods of time. Ability to read, write and communicate via phone, email, or in person. Moves frequently about the facility walking, bending, climbing and reaching. Occasionally lifts and/or carries objects up to 35 lbs.

Work Environment:

Usually in a typical office environment, when in the plant environment, could be exposed to noise, fumes, and variation in temperature.

Limitations and Disclaimer

The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level…