Technical Design Assistant

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Vantage Apparel is the nation’s top source for custom logo apparel, serving as the premier choice of renowned global brands. Established in 1977, we have consistently demonstrated B2B innovation in the promotional apparel industry and earned the prestigious designation of one of the “Best Places to Work” in our field. In 2024, our commitment to excellence in apparel decoration was underscored by consecutive securing the 29th PPAI Gold Pyramid award for embroidery, consistently recognized in ASI Counselor® Magazine’s Top 40 company, and the PPAI Gold Pyramid for Marketing content.

These honors affirm our persistent dedication to setting industry standards.

As a Technical Design Assistant, this role collaborates with cross‑functional teams to facilitate the development and production of merchandise. With strong understanding in technical design, garment fit and construction, this individual upholds technical standards to ensure consistency and quality across styles. Their attention to detail and proactive approach support strategic product execution, enabling the brand to maintain a strong and cohesive customer experience in a competitive and fast‑paced market.

• Create and maintain detailed tech packs including BOMS, specs, tolerances, grading, detail sketches with construction/stitching direction.
• Measure and evaluate garments from proto sample through TOP samples, ensuring consistency with technical specifications and high‑quality standards.
• Maintain communication with overseas vendors, addressing technical issues, providing clarifications, and ensuring timely delivery of samples and production.
• Lead and conduct fit sessions on live models to evaluate samples for fit, measurement, construction, pattern shaping and functionality.
• Provide technical direction, internally and externally, on corrective actions needed to bring samples to brand fit and styling requirements.
• Issue grading guidelines to vendors to maintain fit consistency across various sizes, ensuring adherence to brand standards.
• Coordinate the shipment of reference garments, color swatches, and trims, while maintaining accurate tracking documents.
• Manage and communicate approvals for labels, hangtags, accessories, and trims.
• Update and maintain trim and packaging guidelines for consistency and quality standards.
• Work closely with merchandisers to translate creative concepts into technical specifications, ensuring feasibility and manufacturability without compromising design intent.
• Maintain close partnership with merchandising and sourcing teams to maintain on‑time delivery throughout the pre‑production process and proactively monitor seasonal workload.
• Undertake special projects assigned by the Merchandising Manager, showcasing flexibility and adaptability.
• Participate in continuing education and training programs for professional development in color rating, fibers, technical aspects, and product design.

• Solid technical knowledge of garment construction, fit standards, grading, fabrics, trims, and sewing techniques.
• Proficient in measurement techniques and interpreting technical specifications.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical and creative solutions.
• Strong ability to lead fittings and document detailed, accurate notes.
• High accuracy in math skills for precise spec revisions.
• Highly organized and self‑motivated, with excellent time‑management skills and the ability to prioritize multiple projects.
• Effective collaborator, able to work cross‑functionally and build strong relationships across all organizational levels.
• Confident decision‑maker with a proactive approach to problem‑solving.

Degree in Apparel Technical Design, Fashion Design, or a related field, or a minimum of 2+ years of equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential functions of the job, as determined by the company.

• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Creative Suite, and InDesign software for creating technical sketches and specifications.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

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