Technical Designer: Apparel Development & Production

Rowan; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Rowan is seeking a Technical Designer in San Diego to bridge design, development, and production. You will turn concepts into production-ready tech packs, maintain measurements, and collaborate with design and manufacturers.

Responsibilities include leading fit sessions, refining construction details, and ensuring quality across categories while keeping timelines. Strong knowledge of garment construction and Adobe Illustrator is essential; domestic LA-based manufacturing experience valued.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in technical design, apparel development, or a closely related role.
• Strong knowledge of garment construction, patternmaking, fit, grading, and manufacturing processes.
• Experience creating and managing detailed tech packs and technical specifications.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Excel; experience with PLM systems is a plus.
• Experience with domestic or Los Angeles-based manufacturing is highly valued.
• Excellent organization, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Translate designs into detailed tech packs and production-ready specifications.
• Develop and maintain accurate measurements, grading specs, and garment standards.
• Collaborate with design to preserve creative intent throughout development.
• Provide technical recommendations on fabric, fit, construction, and finishing.
• Lead fit sessions and manage sample reviews through pre-production.
• Troubleshoot production challenges with practical, cost-conscious solutions.
• Serve as the interface between design and domestic manufacturing partners.
• Ensure timely updates are communicated and transitions to bulk production are smooth.
• Maintain organized technical documentation and specs.

Skills

Garment construction

Patternmaking

Tech packs

Collaboration

Organization

Tools

Adobe Illustrator

Excel

PLM systems

Job description

Rowan is seeking a Technical Designer in San Diego to bridge design, development, and production. You will turn concepts into production-ready tech packs, maintain measurements, and collaborate with design and manufacturers.

Responsibilities include leading fit sessions, refining construction details, and ensuring quality across categories while keeping timelines. Strong knowledge of garment construction and Adobe Illustrator is essential; domestic LA-based manufacturing experience valued.