Senior Technical Designer

Free Fly Apparel • Charleston, SC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Free Fly Apparel is a Charleston, SC-based performance clothing company specializing in unique bamboo material blends. Before launching in 2011, we spent over two years of research and development to come up with the softest performance fabrics imaginable. Our design philosophy is anchored in fun and adventure while superior design and craftsmanship remains our focus. Whether you're on the water, exploring the mountains or hitting the gym, we're confident this will quickly become your favorite shirt. Free Fly's products are sold throughout 1,000+ specialty stores and they are also available through our website at www.freeflyapparel.com . As a Senior Technical Designer , you will play a critical role in guiding the technical execution of Free Fly’s seasonal product line, translating design intent into well-engineered, production-ready garments. You will partner closely with Developers, Designers, Product Managers, and vendor partners to establish fit, construction, grading, and quality standards that meet performance and lifestyle end-use requirements. From design handoff through commercialization, you will own technical specifications, lead fit development, and proactively solve construction and quality challenges to ensure consistent fit, function, and craftsmanship across the line. This role is based in Charleston, SC.

Requirements

• Degree from accredited Apparel Design/Development program
• 5+ years of industry experience in Technical Design and Product Development
• Technical Apparel experience required
• Experience working with Product Lifecycle (PLM) Software Management software systems (Centric is a plus)
• Knowledge of technical construction techniques, functional applications, production sewing/manufacturing methods, fabrications, and trims
• Expertise in technical design, i.e. fit optimization and troubleshooting, familiarity with grading and pattern-making
• Experience and understanding of performance materials, technologies, and technical products
• Effective communication of style updates, fit corrections, and quality improvements to in-house and factory partners
• Proven track record of meeting and maintaining schedules and deadlines
• Ability to troubleshoot and spot potential production, construction, and fit issues
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams and across departments
• Strong organizational skills with ability to multi-task and prioritize workload

Responsibilities

• Partner closely with Designers to define and recommend fit types, blocks, measurement specifications, and construction standards that support design intent and end use in alignment with Free Fly standards
• Own the creation and maintenance of accurate tech packs, including BOMs and spec sheets, and manage technical communication and workflow with vendors and factory partners
• Track and review all prototypes, sales, and pre-production samples against the tech pack specifications for fit, quality, design accuracy, and functionality, making informed recommendations and decisions for new, updated, and carryover styles
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of spec sheet and grading standards, ensure adherence to fit categories and specifications, prepare spec reports, and guide fit decisions throughout the development process
• Lead cross-functional fit sessions, both on mannequins and live models
• Serve as technical resource to proactively resolve grading, pattern, construction and quality issues
• Proactively communicate with vendor partners and contractors throughout the development process to manage changes, mitigate risk, and avoid costly errors and production delays
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives and process improvements that improve fit consistency, product quality, and development efficiency

What This Job Offers

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