Graphic Designer - Apparel

ARVO; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading apparel design firm in Cape Town seeks a versatile Graphic Designer to create original apparel graphics and collaborate with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 3 years’ experience in apparel graphic design, a strong portfolio, and proficiency in CorelDRAW. This role involves research on apparel trends and management of design assets within a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in apparel graphic design.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating work across apparel and branding design.
• Solid understanding of apparel construction, textile printing methods, and pattern development.

Responsibilities

• Design original apparel graphics aligned with seasonal themes and brand identity.
• Create production-ready artwork such as tech packs, technical drawings, and sketches.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure designs are executable and production-ready.

Skills

CorelDRAW

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Photoshop

Conceptual design

Time-management

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Art, or related field

Tools

CAD tools

Microsoft Office (Excel)

Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets)

Job description

Team:Operations

Report to:General Manager & CEO

Collaborate with:Product Development Manager, Sales & Marketing Team

About the Role:

Our client is looking for a versatile and creative individual to join their dynamic team. In this role, you’ll transform written briefs and customer insights into compelling apparel designs that resonate with our client's audience. You'll work across a diverse portfolio that includes both top international names and proudly South African brands.

You’ll be part of a high-performing, passionate team with deep industry experience, spanning local and global apparel and sportswear markets. This is a hands-on, collaborative environment where every team member plays a vital role in delivering exceptional results.

• Design original apparel graphics (e.g., T-shirts, hoodies, outerwear) aligned with seasonal themes and brand identity.

• Create production-ready artwork such as tech packs, technical drawings, CADs, and sketches.

• Redraw logos, develop trims, labels, hang tags, and packaging assets.

• Collaborate with Product Development, Merchandising, and Marketing to ensure designs are executable and production-ready.

• Design and layout marketing collateral including brochures, catalogues, lookbooks, and other print materials.

• Create and optimize product imagery and promotional graphics for e-commerce platforms and online stores.

• Prepare visual presentations and catalogues for the Sales team.

• Research apparel trends, consumer preferences, print and dye techniques, and competitive insights.

• Manage seasonal color palettes, CAD libraries, and digital assets.

• Track and manage the approval process of designs from concept to final approval.

• Apply feedback, revise concepts, and finalise artwork for production.

• Ensure all visuals meet brand standards and maintain aesthetic consistency across channels.

• Coordinate with external vendors (e.g. printers, web designers, agencies) as needed.

• Provide input during critical path meetings and ensure timely design delivery.

• Maintain and organize the internal digital filing system of all design assets.

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Art, or related field.

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in apparel graphic design.

• Strong portfolio demonstrating work across apparel and branding design.

• Proficiency in CorelDRAW (essential), Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and CAD tools.

• Solid understanding of apparel construction, textile printing methods, and pattern development.

• Experience in preparing files for various apparel production techniques (screen print, embroidery, sublimation, etc.).

• Strong conceptual design and illustration skills.

• Attention to detail, time-management, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel), Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets), and basic project management tools.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work cross-functionally.

• Comfortable receiving and applying feedback at multiple stages of the design process.

• Team players who demonstrate initiative, honesty, and adaptability.
• Individuals who inspire and respect others, remain optimistic under pressure, and consistently go above and beyond.
• A genuine desire to grow, both personally and professionally, while contributing to something greater than yourself.
• A strong sense of accountability and a willingness to contribute wherever needed - essential in a small, collaborative team where everyone plays a key role.