Senior Technical Designer (Fort Wayne)

Organization : Berne Apparel is a manufacturer and distributor of work and outdoor apparel. The company offers a full line of industrial wear, insulated work clothing such as bib overalls, jackets, coats, coveralls, work jeans, shirts, sweatshirts and accessories for men, women and youth. Distribution of products is primarily concentrated within the United States to farm and home retailers, sporting goods retailers, uniform resellers and promotional products distributors.

Job Description : The Senior Technical Designer will own the full scope of technical development of our product lines, driving innovation, while ensuring consistent fit, quality, and performance. You will work closely with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, and manufacturing, leading the process from design vision to pre-production approval.

Primary Responsibilities

• Drive the technical design process, ensuring the seamless integration of fit, material, specifications, and construction elements across multiple product categories and channels.
• Create, approve, and track accurate technical documentation, including product specifications, technical sketches, construction details, and measurements and size charts.
• Lead efforts to optimize both design and production processes, ensuring consistency across categories and product lines. This includes maintaining vendor development SOPs and guiding vendors on Berne brand product standards.
• Manage and lead fit sessions, ensuring all relevant comments and adjustments are accurately documented and executed, maintaining fit consistency and functional performance within the brand.
• Identify areas for improvement and implement changes to optimize historical fits, construction, and durability, enhancing product performance and reducing risks across various sales channels.
• Track development timelines across multiple international sources, collaborating with the Sourcing team on production capabilities and adjusting as needed in the rapidly changing global environment.
• Collaborate with overseas vendors to manage the garment sampling process. This includes 3D fittings, sketches, measurements, patterns / grading, and final fit approvals.
• Understand and apply customer insights through various data points, including reviews, wear tests, and focus groups.
• For both historical styles and new development, assess and address fit, quality, and production challenges.

Qualifications :

Bachelors degree (B.A.) in apparel technical design, fashion design, apparel production, or closely related program

7+ years industry experience within Technical Design or Product Development, preferably in the workwear / outerwear industry.

Extensive knowledge of garment construction and fabric properties, and a passion for fit!

Strong patternmaking and grading skills, with experience in mens, womens, and youth garments.

Fluency in PLM systems for tracking development and approval of styles, as well as Adobe Creative Suite.

Experience with 2D and 3D digital apparel development, virtual prototype reviews, and pattern design (using Browzwear, Optitex or similar). Experience with 3D design creation is a plus.

Track record of building strong relationships with a wide range of factories.

Detail-oriented with excellent time management and organizational skills.

Strong communication and presentation skills.

Ability to work with multiple personalities in a diverse, fast-paced environment centered on collaboration and innovation.

Ability to work under pressure to meet strict deadlines in our dynamic environment.

Self-starter with a strong work ethic.

Benefits :

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Employee assistance program

Employee discount

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Vision insurance