Apparel Sample Maker (Contractor)

S27a; Newark (CA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

S27a is looking for a Sample Maker to integrate advanced manufacturing techniques in Newark, California. This role blends expertise in traditional garment construction with innovative robotic and adhesive methods.

You will collaborate with engineers in R&D, manage sample production, and oversee multiple projects while shaping the future of apparel manufacturing at the intersection of craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.

The role requires a hands-on approach and the ability to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in garment sample making.
• Strong background in traditional garment construction.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent timelines.

Responsibilities

• Assemble garments using adhesive bonding systems.
• Collaborate with engineers for R&D on robotic systems.
• Manage workload across multiple project tracks.

Skills

Apparel R&D / Innovation

Traditional stitch-based construction techniques

Bonded apparel construction

Garment anatomy and pattern interpretation

Technical aptitude

Organizational skills

Written and verbal communication

Self-directed work style

Attention to detail

Collaborative approach

Job description

About CreateMe

CreateMe is an AI robotics company pioneering automated manufacturing for soft materials, starting with apparel. Built on the belief that the Future of Fashion is Bonded™, the company has developed a unified platform that combines advanced robotics, proprietary adhesive bonding, and Physical AI to deliver a new standard of precision, consistency, and speed.

By replacing stitch-based construction with digitally applied adhesives and automated material handling, the platform enables localized, on-demand production that reduces waste, shortens supply chains, and improves recyclability by design. Core technologies include Pixel™ micro adhesive bonding, the MeRA™ robotic assembly system, and Thermo(re)set™ reversible adhesive science, advancements that make scalable, automated production possible within compact, localized facilities.

CreateMe partners with brands and manufacturers seeking to modernize how products are made. With more than 95 patents across robotics, adhesives, and Physical AI, the company is defining the infrastructure for bonded manufacturing globally.

The Role

We are seeking a Sample Maker to join our growing manufacturing and R&D team. This is not a conventional sample making role. While deep expertise in traditional garment construction is essential, you will be working at the frontier of a new manufacturing paradigm — using novel machinery, materials, and processes to produce garments assembled without a single stitch.

Reporting to the Head of Apparel Product and working alongside our Senior Sample Developer, you will contribute to both production sample development and active research and development efforts. You will collaborate closely with engineers and scientists to inform the development of robotic systems, test prototypes, and provide structured, technically rigorous feedback. No two weeks will look the same, and success in this role requires comfort with ambiguity, a proactive orientation, and the ability to manage multiple workstreams across shifting priorities.

This position offers a rare opportunity to contribute directly to the modernization of apparel manufacturing — a sector largely unchanged for over a century. You will work at the intersection of traditional craft and advanced robotics, with your expertise actively shaping how future garments are made. You will be supported by a Senior Sample Developer who will provide onboarding and ongoing technical mentorship as you grow into the full scope of the role.

This position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship; candidates must have full authorization to work in the United States.

This role is onsite in Newark, CA and is not eligible for relocation assistance.

Responsibilities

Sample Development & Garment Assembly

• Assemble garments and samples using CreateMe's adhesive bonding systems and automated material handling equipment, applying knowledge of traditional garment construction to a new production paradigm.
• Interpret technical design specifications, patterns, and construction documentation to produce samples that meet quality and dimensional standards.
• Execute sample builds across concurrent internal and external project timelines, maintaining accuracy and quality under shifting deadlines.

R&D Collaboration & Robotic System Development

• Partner with the engineering team to provide subject‑matter expertise on garment construction sequences. Participate in testing of new assembly tooling to assist engineering in development and refinement of ease of use and quality, document results and communicate detailed, actionable feedback to engineers and scientists.
• Approach garment assembly challenges with both deep process knowledge and the willingness to question conventional methods when new approaches may yield better outcomes.

Planning & Operational Execution

• Manage workload across multiple simultaneous project tracks, proactively prioritizing tasks and communicating progress or blockers without requiring daily direction.
• Adapt quickly to shifting priorities while maintaining output quality and meeting commitments to internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain organized, accurate records of sample iterations, testing results, material usage, and process notes.

Cross‑Functional Communication

• Communicate clearly and precisely with engineering, science, and design counterparts — translating apparel construction knowledge into language and documentation that technical teams can act on.
• Participate in team reviews, stand‑ups, and feedback sessions, contributing observations and recommendations in a structured, specific manner.
• Operate effectively within a small, collaborative team environment, supporting colleagues and contributing to a culture of shared accountability.

Required Skills, Abilities, and Experience

• Background includes Apparel R&D / Innovation.
• Demonstrated experience in garment sample making, with proficiency in traditional stitch‑based construction techniques.
• Experience with bonded apparel construction.
• Deep understanding of garment anatomy, pattern interpretation, and apparel manufacturing processes — including the ability to identify where and why conventional methods may be adapted or reimagined.
• Strong technical aptitude, with the ability to engage meaningfully in discussions about iterative product development.
• Excellent organizational skills and experience managing work across multiple concurrent timelines.
• Clear, precise written and verbal communication skills; able to convey detailed technical observations to audiences with varying backgrounds.
• Self‑directed work style with demonstrated ability to manage responsibilities independently and take initiative without requiring active, daily supervision.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in both physical execution and written documentation.
• Collaborative approach and strong interpersonal skills suited to a small, close‑knitted team.

Preferred Skills, Abilities, and Experience

• Experience working in a dedicated sample room or development environment.
• Background in R&D contexts outside of apparel — including product development, industrial design, mechanical prototyping, or adjacent fields — demonstrating the ability to think across disciplines.
• Familiarity with materials testing, process documentation, or structured feedback methodologies.
• Experience working in an early‑stage or rapidly evolving organization.
• Experience in Google Docs and/or Notion.

At CreateMe Technologies, we value diversity and treat all employees and job applicants based on merit, qualifications, competence, and talent. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.