Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Product Development & Technical Designer to oversee the development of apparel programs from concept through production-ready samples.
This is a part-time opportunity for an experienced apparel professional who enjoys working independently while collaborating closely with our design and production teams. Freelancers, consultants, and independent contractors are encouraged to apply. The final employment arrangement (part-time employee or independent contractor) will be determined based on the selected candidate's experience, availability, and qualifications.
Work Arrangement
- Part-time position (approximately 15–24 hours per week)
- Freelancers, consultants, and independent contractors are welcome to apply
- Hybrid position
- Approximately 2 days per week in our Orange County office
- Remaining work may be completed remotely
- Regular travel throughout Los Angeles and Orange County is required for sourcing, factory visits, contractor meetings, sample reviews, and vendor management.
Responsibilities
- Lead product development for premium streetwear apparel.
- Develop first prototypes, fit samples, salesman samples, and production samples.
- Interpret design sketches, buyer specifications, reference garments, and technical requirements.
- Create and maintain:
- Technical Packs
- Bills of Materials (BOMs)
- Cost Sheets
- Pattern Cards
- Construction details and sewing instructions
- Review garment fit, construction, and workmanship throughout the development process.
- Recommend construction methods that improve quality, manufacturability, and cost.
- Source fabrics, trims, washes, prints, embroidery, garment dye finishes, and specialty components.
- Communicate directly with domestic and overseas factories regarding sample development, revisions, and production readiness.
- Manage product development calendars and sample timelines.
- Coordinate and oversee the work of patternmakers and sample makers, ensuring patterns, prototypes, and revisions are completed accurately and on schedule.
- Review and approve pattern revisions prior to sample production.
- Identify technical and construction issues before production and implement corrective solutions.
- Visit fabric suppliers, trim vendors, sample rooms, dye houses, printers, embroiderers, contractors, and sewing factories throughout Los Angeles and Orange County as needed.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors while sourcing new materials and manufacturing partners.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3 years of experience in apparel product development, technical design, or sample development.
- Experience developing streetwear apparel, including knit fabrics and cut-and-sew garments.
- Strong knowledge of:
- Knit fabrics
- Garment dyeing and specialty wash techniques
- Garment construction and sewing methods
- Pattern development and sample execution
- Ability to read and interpret garment specifications, technical drawings, and buyer requirements.
- Experience creating:
- Technical Packs
- Bills of Materials (BOMs)
- Cost Sheets
- Pattern Cards
- Experience coordinating and managing patternmakers and sample makers throughout the product development process.
- Strong understanding of garment fit, grading, shrinkage, and production tolerances.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel; Adobe Illustrator and PLM experience are a plus.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and project management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple development projects while meeting tight deadlines.
- Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and willingness to travel throughout Los Angeles and Orange County for sourcing and vendor meetings.
Preferred Experience
Experience developing products such as:
- Premium T-shirts
- Hoodies
- Fleece
- Sweatpants
- Shorts
- Jerseys
- Garment-dyed collections
- Printed, embroidered, and embellished apparel
Compensation
$35-$45 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
Why Join ESCY Corporation?
This is an exciting opportunity to work on premium streetwear and licensed merchandise programs for leading entertainment and lifestyle brands. You'll play a key role in bringing products from concept to production while collaborating with a talented network of designers, patternmakers, sample makers, factories, and suppliers. If you're passionate about apparel development and thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we'd love to hear from you.
Pay: $35.00 - $45.00 per hour
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Orange, CA 92865
