Tactical Apparel Designer

SureFire LLC•Fountain Valley, CA

1d•$70,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

This role oversees the full product development process for functional apparel, from concept through production for garments curated to meet a specific design. We are seeking an artful designer who brings a strong sense of aesthetic refinement to highly technical function. The position entails advanced knowledge of garment engineering, textile performance, material sourcing, patterning, and fitting to support the design. Responsibilities include designing, prototyping, and refining functional apparel. Additionally, the position requires identifying the necessary equipment and material that is established and support an effective fabrication and prototype development environment. The role works with concept designers, equipment manufacturers, and clothing manufacturers.

Requirements

Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations.
Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.
Written Communication / Oral Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information; Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback.
Judgment - Displays willingness to make decisions; Exhibits sound and accurate judgment; Supports and explains reasoning for decisions; Includes appropriate people in decision-making process; Makes timely decisions.
Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans.
Diversity - Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; Promotes a harassment-free environment.
Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds organizational values.
Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments.
Safety and Security - Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.
Attendance/Punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Arrives at meetings and appointments on time.
Dependability - Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Keeps commitments; Commits to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals. Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.
In-depth knowledge of textile properties, garment construction, and manufacturing processes.
Demonstrated ability to develop functional apparel that meets rigorous performance standards.
Ability to perform calculations utilizing arithmetic such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division normally attained through elementary school education.
Ability to perform calculations utilizing algebra and fractions.
Must be proficient in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook).

Nice To Haves

Experience working with advanced materials such as moisture-wicking fabrics, ballistic fibers, or flame-resistant textiles preferred.
Experience or familiarity with eCommerce platforms, digital merchandising, and online product presentation preferred.
Familiarity with user-centered design principles and ergonomic considerations for tactical gear.
Bachelor’s Degree in Apparel Textile Sciences, Fashion Design, Industrial Design, Textile Engineering and/or up to 3 years relevant work experience preferred.

Responsibilities

Conceptualize, design, and develop innovative products and functional apparel
Curate detailed design specifications, including technical drawings, material requirements, and manufacturing guidelines
Develop prototypes through various methods such as sewing, 3D modeling, 3D printing, or laser cutting to test and refine designs
Identify and collaborate with manufacturers and production companies to ensure designs are optimized for cost-effectiveness, manufacturability, and performance
Conduct user testing and gather feedback to iterate on designs to improve product/user experience
Support the transition of designs from prototype to full-scale production
Proficiency in fabrication techniques and procuring specified material
Ability to create detailed design sketches and technical drawings
Maintain good attendance and punctuality.
Maintain a positive and respectful attitude; cooperate with co-workers, management, internal and external customers, etc.
Execute daily process improvement using lean manufacturing methodologies.
Maintain work area by the use of 6S principles
Work safely at all times and report any unsafe conditions or injuries to your supervisor or manager immediately
Other duties, as assigned.