Senior Designer

5.11 • Costa Mesa, CA

3d

About The Position

5.11 is seeking a highly creative and technically driven Senior Apparel Designer to support the continued evolution of our apparel product line. This role will help develop innovative, purpose-built product solutions that serve professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and consumers who prioritize performance, durability, and versatility.

Requirements

• 7–10 years of apparel design experience within outdoor, workwear, active, performance, or technical apparel industries.
• Strong understanding of functional apparel construction, garment engineering, fit, and performance-driven design.
• Experience working with technical fabrics, trims, and performance materials.
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator.
• Strong communication, presentation, and organizational skills.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams.

Nice To Haves

• Experience designing women’s apparel is a strong plus.
• Sewing, patternmaking, or technical construction knowledge is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of innovative apparel concepts across multiple categories within the 5.11 product portfolio.
• Translate consumer insights, market trends, and brand strategy into commercially viable and technically sound product solutions.
• Create seasonal concepts, sketches, CADs, tech packs, and presentation materials that clearly communicate design intent.
• Drive innovation across fabrics, trims, garment construction, and functional performance features.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Product Development and Technical Design to ensure fit, functionality, manufacturability, and construction integrity.
• Partner with the Design Director and broader design team to evolve and maintain a cohesive product vision and brand aesthetic.
• Participate in fittings, prototype reviews, and product evaluations to ensure design intent and end-user performance standards are achieved.
• Research market trends, materials, and emerging technologies to inform future product opportunities and innovation.
• Present design concepts, material direction, color recommendations, and seasonal storytelling during key milestone meetings.

Benefits

• medical, dental and vision insurance
• a 401(k) program with employer match
• employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance
• Hospital Indemnity/Accident insurance
• Flexible Spending Account/Health Saving Account
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off/Paid Holidays/Sick Time
• Casual Dress Code
• Employee Discounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed