Lead Apparel Designer - Concept to Production, NYC

JCPenney; Lloyd's Corners (NY); On-site; USD 76,000 - 98,000; Full time

Job summary

Catalyst Brands in New York, NY is seeking a Designer for Nautica to lead creative development from concept to production. You will collaborate with Merchandising, Technical Design, and Production to deliver on-brand, high-volume apparel while meeting seasonal timelines.

The role emphasizes strong Illustrator/Photoshop skills, tech packs, trend research, and a proactive, detail-oriented design voice within a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design or related field.
• 5+ years of apparel design experience in a fast-paced environment.
• Menswear experience a plus; portfolio required.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
• Experience with AI tools for ideation (e.g., ChatGPT, Vizcom).

Responsibilities

• Develop seasonal concepts, color palettes, prints, and silhouettes aligned with brand direction.
• Create original sketches and technical flats using Illustrator.
• Manage tech packs, BOMs, and design intent through production.
• Collaborate with Merchandising, Technical Design, and Production to meet timelines.
• Present mood boards and line presentations for seasonal reviews.

Skills

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Photoshop

Miro

AI design tools

Garment construction

Sketching

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design

Tools

PLM

Miro

Job description

Catalyst Brands in New York, NY is seeking a Designer for Nautica to lead creative development from concept to production. You will collaborate with Merchandising, Technical Design, and Production to deliver on-brand, high-volume apparel while meeting seasonal timelines.

The role emphasizes strong Illustrator/Photoshop skills, tech packs, trend research, and a proactive, detail-oriented design voice within a fast-paced environment.