Assistant Designer

Nautica • New York, NY

4d • $55,000 - $66,300 • Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Designer, Nautica, supports the design team in developing apparel collections from concept through production. This collaborative, detail-oriented role assists with design execution, technical communication, and seasonal workflow while helping maintain brand aesthetic, quality, and timeline standards.

The role supports seasonal design concepts and product development, including technical sketches, tech packs, fit-session notes, sample management, and tracking product updates. It collaborates with Merchandising, Technical Design, Production, and overseas vendors and factories as directed. It also supports administrative and operational work such as organizing design files, updating line plans and BOMs, and conducting market, trend, and competitive research.

The position is based in New York, NY. A portfolio is required. The stated pay range is USD $55,000–$66,300 per year.

Requirements

• 0–2 years of experience in a design or product development role; internships included.
• A portfolio is required.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Strong sketching, illustration, and organizational skills.
• Understanding of Miro for collaboration with design and cross-functional teams.
• Basic understanding and hands-on experience using AI tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, or Vizcom for ideation, concept development, and design visualization.
• Basic understanding of garment construction, fabrics, and fit.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to lift and carry samples and sample boxes.
• Ability to attend fittings and seasonal reviews.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or a related field preferred.
• Apparel industry experience strongly preferred.
• PLM experience is a plus.
• Passion for fashion and a strong interest in product development.
• Eagerness to learn, proactivity, and receptiveness to feedback.
• Team-oriented approach and a positive, can-do attitude.
• Ability to balance creativity with structure and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing seasonal concepts, color palettes, prints, and silhouettes aligned with brand direction.
• Create and update technical sketches and flats using Adobe Illustrator.
• Support designers in fabric, trim, and color selection.
• Assist with mood boards, presentations, and line reviews.
• Use TikTok, Instagram, and digital collaboration tools such as Miro for inspiration and ideation.
• Create and maintain accurate tech packs, including measurements, construction details, and comments.
• Support fit sessions by taking notes and tracking revisions.
• Assist with sample management, including logging, organizing, and reviewing samples.
• Track product changes and updates throughout the development process.
• Liaise with Merchandising, Technical Design, and Production teams to help ensure design intent is executed.
• Communicate with overseas vendors and factories as directed.
• Support timeline management to help ensure deadlines are met.
• Organize design files, boards, and reference libraries.
• Update seasonal line plans, BOMs, and internal tracking tools.
• Assist with market research, trend research, and competitive analysis.

Benefits

• If eligible, medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Term life insurance.
• Paid vacation and holidays, subject to eligibility.
• 401(k) with Company match.
• Associate discount on Catalyst Brands merchandise.
• Eligible associates who receive paid vacation (MTO) are also eligible for eight paid holidays during the calendar year.
• Store hourly associates scheduled to work on a designated holiday receive additional compensation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level