ZipRecruiter is hiring : Technical Design Manager in Berkeley

Job Description

Location : Berkeley, CA

Employment Type : Full-Time

Compensation : $120,000-$140,000 annually

Do you dream of designing apparel that balances adventure and everyday life? At Royal Robbins, we believe great design is about more than just performance; it’s about enabling people to live well in the world. We’re seeking a Technical Design Manager who will lead our Technical Design team with expertise, creativity, and precision.

In this role, you'll combine a deep knowledge of garment construction, fit, and engineering with leadership skills to guide a talented team. You'll work in close daily partnership with Design and Merchandising, as well as Sourcing and Production, ensuring every piece of apparel upholds the integrity of the Royal Robbins brand.

What you will do Leadership & Team Development

Lead, mentor, and develop the Technical Design team, setting clear goals and ensuring accountability

Allocate and balance seasonal product load, aligning workload with team expertise and business priorities

Drive seasonal hindsight reviews and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, product upgrades, and collaboration

Support departmental and brand deadlines while also taking on special projects as needed

Product Development & Execution

Manage and oversee multiple apparel and accessory categories from concept to bulk production

Personally manage seasonal styles from proto to production, ensuring fit intent and construction standards

Manage and evolve the Technical Design strategy, processes, libraries, and operational methods

Develop, implement, and maintain quality, construction standards, and fit blocks across product categories

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work hand-in-hand with Design and Merchandising teams from concept through production, ensuring design vision, fit, and commercial goals come to life. Partner closely with Sourcing and Production to resolve cost or construction issues while protecting brand integrity.

Communicate with global partners, agents, and vendors to troubleshoot, educate, and ensure product excellence

Lead the fit model process, including budget and model evaluation for consistency and accuracy

Foster a highly collaborative culture, acting as a bridge between creative design vision and technical execution, so that cross-functional partners are aligned at every stage of the process.

What you bring Degree in Pattern Making, Fashion Design, Textiles, or related field plus 8+ years of technical design experience

Proven success in managing, coaching, and developing technical design teams

Expert knowledge of garment fit, construction, patternmaking, and engineering across categories

Familiarity with 3D design processes and tools (Clo3D or similar)

Experience with overseas factories, production timelines, and costing

Strong fabric and trim knowledge as it applies to construction and fit

Exceptional problem-solving, organization, and communication skills across teams and cultures

Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, Illustrator, Photoshop, and PLM systems

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while meeting deadlines and adapting to change

Collaborative spirit with the ability to build strong partnerships across the business

Optional :

Passion for the outdoors, adventure, and sustainability

Previous experience in the outdoor apparel industry

What we offer A stimulating work environment with passionate, enthusiastic co-workers

Opportunities for personal and professional growth that will elevate your career

A company that treasures sustainability and acts to create future stewards of nature

Medical, Dental, Vision, Critical Illness, Accident Insurance

401k with generous company match

PTO and a generous schedule of company-paid holidays

Product discounts on all Fenix Outdoor brands

Industry discounts and more…

About us Founded in 1968 by climbers Royal and Liz Robbins, Royal Robbins has been at the forefront of sustainable outdoor apparel for decades. Our heritage is rooted in Yosemite’s granite walls and the spirit of adventure, and our mission is to create clothing that’s technical enough for the trail yet stylish and comfortable enough for everyday life. Today, our collections are found in outdoor and specialty retailers worldwide, always designed with integrity, respect for nature, and a love for exploration.

Inspired to apply? Apply online and tell us how your experience and leadership can help continue the Royal Robbins legacy of adventure-ready, sustainable design.

Fenix Outdoor is committed to continually striving to create and promote a diverse and inclusive workplace for all employees. We provide equal employment opportunities. Our goal is to create a safe, fair and friendly work environment where everyone feels welcome and can thrive.

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