Technical Knit Designer and Product Development Manager

Technical Knit Designer and PD Manager | New York, NY

Reports to: RTW team leaders, in close partnership with the Founder

About the role: Owns technical execution and product development for the knitwear category - flat technical sketches, tech packs, fit, sourcing, and factory management - working from concepts and line plans set by the Founder.

Responsibilities:

• Develop detailed technical flat sketches, specs, measurements, and construction details for the knitwear category, based on provided design concepts.

• Flag relevant yarn, stitch, and technique trend information to inform the design team's direction-setting.

• Research stitches, source yarns and mills, and launch swatch development, ensuring they meet quality standards.

• Own day-to-day yarn/mill sourcing relationships and factory minimums; negotiate costing and target pricing at the execution level.

• Build and launch tech packs, following each style from initial proto through final production tech pack and PPS approval.

• Review and inspect samples ahead of fit sessions; attend fittings fully prepared; collaborate with pattern makers and sample makers to resolve fit and construction issues.

• Ensure consistency of proportions across the full-size range; update and release graded specs upon garment approval.

• Establish and maintain quality standards; conduct regular inspections addressing construction, fit, and finishing issues before production.

• Provide guidance to production teams to ensure smooth execution of knitwear designs.

• Work closely with cross-functional teams on cost optimization opportunities without compromising quality or design integrity.

• anage BOMs, PO due dates, budgets/invoices, and the knitwear development calendar; flag deadline risks and prioritize workload accordingly.

• Communicate and follow up with vendors to hold timelines, resolve development issues, and meet target prices.

• Maintain accurate documentation of all technical specs, pattern files, construction notes, and fit comments.

• Support ecomm approvals and specs.

• Partner with overseas team members and hold regular check-ins with the oversees team.

• Partner with the Founder and Merchandising team to define the seasonal knitwear strategy, assortment, and merchandising plan.

Requirements:

• Strong technical design background in knitwear - pattern, construction, and grading knowledge

• Hands-on experience with yarn/mill sourcing and day-to-day vendor negotiation

• Proficient in fittings, confident following styles from tech pack to production

• Good factory/supplier relationships; experience communicating with overseas vendors

• Knowledge of costing and Zedonk a plus

• Proficient in Microsoft Office/Google Workspace and Adobe Suite (Illustrator for flats, Photoshop, InDesign)

• Highly organized, self-motivated, strong cross-functional communicator, team player

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $85,000–$100,000 (dependent on experience and qualifications)

• Competitive medical benefits

• PTO plans

• 401k and Roth IRA retirement plans

To Apply

Please send your portfolio, resume, and cover letter to [email protected].