About ACHILLEION
ACHILLEION is a martial arts equipment company developing innovative combat training systems, including anatomically correct fighting dummies and advanced neoprene-based sports products.
We are seeking a highly skilled Lead Technical Designer – Sports Apparel to lead the development, fit, construction, and technical execution of our neoprene-based product systems.
This is not a traditional apparel production role.
We are looking for an experienced technical designer and product developer who can take products from concept through prototype and into scalable production. The ideal candidate understands technical soft goods construction, patternmaking, neoprene fabrication, fit refinement, and manufacturing processes.
This role requires someone who can think creatively, solve technical construction challenges, communicate effectively with manufacturers, and rapidly refine products during development.
The candidate must be highly hands-on and comfortable working directly with physical prototypes and anatomical forms in an R&D-driven environment.
Primary Responsibilities
Product Development & Technical Design
- Lead technical development of neoprene-based products from concept through production
- Translate product concepts into technical specifications, construction methods, and production-ready documentation
- Develop, modify, and refine patterns for complex 3D anatomical forms
- Create and maintain tech packs, specifications, BOMs, measurements, and development documentation
- Build scalable construction and fit standards across products
- Collaborate closely with operations and R&D teams to improve product fit, appearance, durability, and manufacturability
- Identify and resolve construction, fit, and production challenges during development
- Assist in transitioning prototypes into repeatable manufacturing processes
Prototype & Sample Development
- Lead prototype development, fit reviews, revisions, and sample approvals
- Conduct hands-on product evaluations and construction testing
- Make real-time adjustments to patterns, fit, and construction techniques during development
- Document and communicate detailed revisions and technical corrections
- Evaluate neoprene materials, trims, adhesives, stitching techniques, and fabrication methods
- Ensure products meet company standards for quality, durability, and appearance
Manufacturing & Vendor Communication
- Communicate directly with manufacturers and production partners regarding construction, fit, materials, and technical execution
- Review prototypes and samples to ensure alignment with design intent and production standards
- Collaborate with vendors regarding manufacturing feasibility and process improvements
- Support sourcing and material selection for neoprene and technical soft goods applications
- Track development timelines, revisions, and approvals
Industrial Sewing & Technical Construction
- Operate industrial sewing equipment including:
- Blind Stitch Machines
- Overlock Machines
- Heavy-Duty Zig-Zag Machines
- Walking Foot Machines
- Construct and modify neoprene prototypes and technical assemblies
- Execute precise stitching and finishing techniques for performance products
- Support development and refinement of manufacturing methods
Required Qualifications
- Minimum 5+ years of experience in technical design, product development, sports apparel, or technical soft goods manufacturing
- Strong background in neoprene construction and technical sewing
- Advanced patternmaking and garment construction experience
- Experience developing products from concept through commercialization
- Proven ability to create tech packs, specifications, BOMs, and development documentation
- Strong understanding of fit, construction methods, material behavior, and manufacturing processes
- Experience working directly with manufacturers and production vendors
- Ability to rapidly solve fit and construction issues during development
- Strong organizational and project management skills
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
- Ability to work in a fast-paced R&D and manufacturing environment
- High attention to detail and craftsmanship
Preferred Experience
Strong preference for candidates with experience in:
- Sports Apparel
- Protective Equipment
- Tactical Gear
- Wetsuits
- Performance Products
- Soft Goods Product Development
- Motorsports Apparel
- Athletic Equipment
- Technical Fabrication
Experience with:
- Adobe Illustrator
- CAD pattern development
- PLM systems
- 3D product development tools
- is a plus.
Bilingual English/Spanish is preferred.
What We Offer
- Full-time permanent W-2 employment
- Paid holidays
- Performance bonus opportunities
- Stable Monday–Friday schedule
- Weekends off
- Opportunity to help develop highly unique proprietary products
- Collaborative product development environment
- Long-term growth potential within an expanding company
To Apply
Please submit:
- Resume
- Portfolio or examples of relevant technical design/product development work
- Examples of neoprene, sports apparel, tactical gear, or technical sewing projects (preferred)
We are looking for a highly capable builder, designer, and technical problem-solver who is passionate about developing innovative products and bringing concepts to life.
Pay: $42.00 - $48.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
