Senior Lead - Pattern Engineer

Senior Lead
- Pattern Engineer 100%

We are seeking an internationally seasoned, highly specialized Senior Lead
- Pattern Engineer to spearhead the technical lifecycle of our global product lines from concept to production. This strategic leadership role requires an elite mastery of both digital and manual pattern architecture, combined with a proven track record of managing garment engineers while working closely with Design, Technical Design, and suppliers.

The successful candidate will directly lead, manage, and scale our internal team of pattern engineers. This position acts as the definitive global technical authority for pattern engineering – architecting scalable fitting systems, optimizing cross‑functional 2D/3D workflows, and driving the professional growth of their direct reports to reduce development timelines and ensure flawless global fit consistency.

• Lead, manage, and evaluate a dedicated internal team of Pattern Engineers. Design and execute internal training on advanced fitting techniques, complex pattern adjustments, and Gerber Accumark instruction.
• Manage team workflow distribution and capacity against dynamic seasonal product creation calendars.
• Establish global pattern standards and technical production standards relative to fit and quality benchmarks.
• Spearhead high‑profile franchise updates and complex special projects, translating technical sketches into scalable, production‑ready patterns.
• Implement and maintain robust systems for fitting processes, digital pattern management, and PLM pipelines to improve sample approval rates.
• Lead high‑level fit sessions on live models, acting as the ultimate cross‑functional expert between Design, Sourcing, and Materials.
• Drive the integration of 2D digital pattern making with 3D prototyping software (CLO/Browzwear) to optimize fabric efficiency.

• Minimum 8-12 years of combined industry experience in pattern making (preferably development through production) in apparel.
• Advanced proficiency in manual and digital pattern making.
• Strong proficiency in industry‑leading software such as Gerber, Lectra, PLM.
• Software, and illustrator 3D Software experience is an asset (CLO and Browzwear).
• Expertise in fit, balance, garment construction, fabric properties, and advanced sewing techniques.
• Ability to interpret, refine, and execute technical sketches and spec sheets with precision.
• Proficiency in operating industrial sewing machines and assembling complex garment samples.
• Problem‑Solving & Innovation:
  Strong analytical skills to troubleshoot fit and construction issues while providing creative, production‑ready solutions.
• Attention to Detail:
  High accuracy in pattern development, grading, and sample sewing to maintain quality and consistency.
• Collaboration & Communication:
  Ability to work cross‑functionally with design, sample‑making, and production teams to achieve best-in‑class garment execution.
• Project & Time Management:
  Expertise in balancing multiple projects within tight deadlines while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship.
• Strong team leader, player, collaborator and ability to work well cross functionally.
• Knowledge of product creation calendar and acute ability to work to meet deadlines and deliverables.
• Self‑motivated, strong sense of urgency, and passion for product and problem solving.
• Expertise in technical or performance apparel with an understanding of advanced fabric properties.
• Knowledge of draping techniques, grading, and fabric testing methodologies. Background in lean production principles and efficiency optimization to enhance workflow and reduce waste.

• Work location 8005 Zürich (ZH)
• Workload 100%
• Employment start Immediately
• Employment duration Permanent
• Qualification skilled
• Work experience More than 3 years
• Education Bachelor’s degree from a university or equivalent
• English – Oral Very good knowledge
• English – Written Very good knowledge
• Application method Online form