Design Assistant, KTB

Roots; Golden Horseshoe; On-site; CAD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Roots seeks a Design Assistant – Kids, Toddler, Baby (KTB) to join our Design team, reporting to the Design Director – KTB. You will provide both creative and technical support throughout the product development process, helping bring seasonal concepts to life and ensuring accurate execution from initial design handoff through pre-production sign-off.

We’re looking for a collaborative, hands-on team player who thrives in a creative environment and enjoys partnering with others to turn ideas into

Qualifications

• Diploma or higher in Fashion Design or a related creative field.
• 1–2 years of experience in Fashion, Accessories, or related design roles.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Microsoft Office.
• Experience with web PDM systems is an asset.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with an ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
• Foundational knowledge of merchandising and product construction.

Responsibilities

• Provide creative and technical support throughout the product development process, helping bring seasonal concepts to life.
• Ensure accurate execution from initial design handoff through pre-production sign-off.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to turn ideas into products.
• Maintain accurate product development BOMs and ensure fabrics and trims meet Roots standards.
• Participate in colour development, lab dips, and approvals while upholding seasonal colour standards.

Skills

Fashion design

Communication

Presentation

Education

Fashion Design diploma or higher

Tools

Adobe Illustrator

Microsoft Office

PDM systems

Job description

Established in 1973, Roots is a proudly Canadian lifestyle brand that celebrates authenticity, quality, and community. Inspired by the great outdoors, we create timeless, sustainable apparel and leather goods designed for comfort and everyday adventure. At Roots, we believe in fostering a culture of inclusivity, creativity, and teamwork – where every team member plays a role in shaping our brand’s legacy. If you bring passion to everything you do, lead with integrity, and believe in the power of collaboration to drive growth, we’d love to have you on our journey!

Nature & Scope

Your Role at Roots

We are seeking a Design Assistant – Kids, Toddler, Baby (KTB) to join our Design team, reporting to the Design Director – KTB. In this role, you will provide both creative and technical support throughout the product development process, helping bring seasonal concepts to life and ensuring accurate execution from initial design handoff through pre-production sign-off. We’re looking for a collaborative, hands‑on team player who thrives in a creative environment and enjoys partnering with others to turn ideas into products.

Key Responsibilities → How You’ll Make An Impact

• Conduct ongoing market and trend research to help identify seasonal fashion direction and opportunities.
• Support the development of seasonal Children's collections by creating original, brand-right design work under the guidance of the Senior Designer.
• Build and maintain accurate Product Development Bills of Materials (BOMs), ensuring all fabrics and trims meet Roots standards before use.
• Participate in the colour development process, including lab dips and approvals, while maintaining seasonal colour standards.
• Input and update product information in PDM systems, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Collaborate with cross functional teams across the organization
• Track and adhere to multi-season development calendars, ensuring key deadlines are met.
• Assist with the development of SMU (special make-up) requests by delivery as needed.

Qualifications & Experience → The Skills You Bring

• Diploma or higher in Fashion Design or a related creative field.
• 1–2 years of experience in Fashion, Accessories, or related design roles.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, and Microsoft Office.
• Experience with web PDM systems is an asset.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with an ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
• Foundational knowledge of merchandising and product construction.

This role supports our Fair Labour Association accreditation by applying Responsible Purchasing Practices that promote fair labour standards and responsible sourcing.

At Roots we appreciate that skills and expertise are cultivated through a range of experiences. We are committed to reflecting Canada’s diverse landscape in our products, team, and workplace culture. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to apply, even if you don’t meet every listed requirement. Accommodations are available for applicants throughout the recruitment process.

Please note: Roots uses technology‑assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to support parts of the recruitment process. These tools may be used to help review applications, assess qualifications, and support interview documentation. All hiring decisions are reviewed and made by our Talent team and key leaders involved in the recruitment process.

The posted salary range is intended to reflect the competitive market value of this role and is provided to support transparency in our hiring process. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to internal equity, relevant skills, demonstrated knowledge, experience, and overall fit for the position.