Technical Designer

The Cato Corporation; Charlotte (NC); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

The Cato Corporation is seeking an experienced Patternmaker/Technical Specialist to support apparel development for its fashion buyers and vendors in Charlotte. You will analyze samples, ensure sizing consistency, and communicate fit corrections to vendors to maintain core specs and construction standards.

Responsibilities include creating Bid Packages, training assistants, and collaborating with Merchandising, Sourcing and QA to drive quality and timely delivery.

Qualifications

• Pattern-making/Grading/Measurement/Specifications skills
• Garment construction (Industrial) and sewing skills a plus
• Good flat sketching ability
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Computer skills: Word, Excel, Adobe Illustrator a plus

Responsibilities

• Sample analysis, including measuring samples as required, conducting fit sessions with Buyers, and communicating appropriate fit and pattern corrections to Vendors.
• Responsible for maintaining specification consistency across all product categories.
• Making fit comments and corrections based on comparison with core specs and construction standards.
• Giving technical support to vendors (troubleshooting) when needed, and producing final specifications.
• Development of Bid Packages for product development that capture the essence of the style while maintaining measurement and construction standards.
• Assist in the training and development of Assistant Technical Designers.
• Support special projects and cross-functional initiatives as assigned.
• Develop proficiency with Adobe Illustrator and Flex PLM systems.
• Conduct competitive analysis research.
• Wash-test garments as required.
• Work in tandem with Merchandising, Sourcing, and Quality Assurance Departments, offering expertise and assistance as needed.

Skills

Pattern-making

Grading

Measurement

Specifications

Garment construction

Flat sketching

Written and verbal communication

Word

Education

Degree in Patternmaking/Apparel Manufacturing/Design

Tools

Adobe Illustrator

Flex PLM

Job description

To provide apparel technical support for Cato and It’s Fashion Buyers, Product Managers and Vendors, by developing product with optimum fit, consistent sizing and quality construction.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Sample analysis, including measuring samples as required, conducting fit sessions with Buyers, and communicating appropriate fit and pattern corrections to Vendors.
• Responsible for maintaining specification consistency across all product categories.
• Making fit comments and corrections based on comparison with core specs and construction standards.
• Giving technical support to vendors (troubleshooting) when needed, and producing final specifications.
• Development of Bid Packages for product development that capture the essence of the style while maintaining measurement and construction standards.
• Assist in the training and development of Assistant Technical Designers.
• Support special projects and cross-functional initiatives as assigned.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop proficiency with Adobe Illustrator and Flex PLM systems.
• Conduct competitive analysis research.
• Wash-test garments as required.
• Work in tandem with Merchandising, Sourcing, and Quality Assurance Departments, offering expertise and assistance as needed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION:

• Degree in Patternmaking/Apparel Manufacturing/Design

WORK EXPERIENCE:

• 3-10 years experience as Patternmaker/Technical Specialist/Designer

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Pattern-making/Grading/Measurement/Specifications skills
• Garment construction (Industrial) and sewing skills a plus
• Good flat sketching ability
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Computer skills: Word, Excel, Adobe Illustrator a plus

Equal Opportunity Employer
Drug-free workplace
You must be at least 18 years of age to be employed by the company.