Technical Apparel Designer
A rare opportunity for a Technical-Apparel Designer to join progressive outdoor-wear brand
Role Description
This company is committed to creating world-class hunting apparel for men, women, and kids, leading the industry in innovation, design, function, fit, and quality. Innovation and designing tough, technical apparel that’s trusted in the wild is at the heart of what they do - then they sell it to the world. From the back blocks to the backcountry, their gear is made to perform, and made to last.
We are looking for a Senior Designer who is passionate about beautiful, functional design and will bring fresh ideas to the brand. As a creative leader and innovator, you’ll drive the development of cutting-edge products that serve customers in the harshest environments.
About the Role:
You’ll be responsible for maintaining and evolving the brands design identity across colour, fit, function, fabric, construction, and technical detailing. You will collaborate closely with the in-house Product Development team and pattern maker, guiding products from initial concept through to production.
This is a hands-on, full-spectrum design role, encompassing research, conceptualization, fabric sourcing, technical specifications, prototyping, fittings, and supplier management. You’ll work closely with industry professionals and sales teams to ensure their products meet real-world needs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Deliver innovative, market-leading designs that push the boundaries of functional hunting/outdoor apparel and accessories.
- Build strong relationships with the local and international sales teams and professional hunters to identify market needs and translate feedback into outstanding product solutions.
- Own the design process from concept to production across men's, women's, and kids' technical apparel.
- Build and manage technical specification packages, ensuring designs meet briefed targets and brand standards.
- Conduct trend and market research, developing seasonal mood boards, colour palettes, and inspiration decks.
- Source, research, and select technical fabrics, trims, and materials appropriate to performance standards.
- Create sketches, 3D renderings, and technical drawings to communicate design intent.
- Develop and present prototypes and seasonal product lines in internal design reviews.
- Work alongside Developers to create detailed tech packs and oversee product construction through multiple sample stages.
- Lead fit sessions with the Developer and pattern maker, ensuring products achieve exceptional fit and function.
- Manage relationships with vendors and suppliers, ensuring they deliver against the design intent and quality expectations.
- Attend domestic and international trade shows, vendor meetings, and research trips as required.
Requirements
What You'll Bring:
- 5+ years’ experience in functional apparel design (preferably outdoor, farming, hunting, or workwear sectors).
- Expert knowledge of technical fabrics, apparel construction, and performance apparel fitting processes.
- An understanding or willingness to learn and implement AI.
- Advanced Adobe Illustrator skills
- Strong skills in building tech packs, garment specifications, and construction documentation.
- Have a strong understanding of product costings and designing product to target specific price points and margins.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present concepts clearly and inspire the team.
- A proactive, hands-on approach with excellent problem-solving and time management abilities.
- A passion for functional, durable design, and an understanding (or a willingness to learn) what serious hunters need in the field.
- Skilled at working within a design team and collaborating with sales, marketing, and other departments.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for research, development, and supplier collaboration.
In this role you’ll be part of a passionate team with a deep love for the outdoors, proud to support local manufacturing and do things the right way.
This is a rare and exciting opportunity to bring your functional apparel design experience to this supportive and progressive company. If you feel you have all the attributes, we would love to hear from you. Send your portfolio and CV to rosina@ragtrade.co.nz or for more information call Rosina on 021 213 4033
If you think you’ve got what it takes then please e-mail your CV through to rosina@ragtrade.co.nz