Design Assistant - Gear

SUMMARY: 
Responsible for administration and follow up of the product design process. Assists in the conceptual development of the accessories product line. Assist the Sr. Product Line Manager in the product creation process from concept to finished goods. The Design Assistant supports the team by managing color, print, techsheets, CADS, and print & graphic schematics. Additionally the Design Assistant maintains PLM system integrity, tracks milestones, ensuring that brand positioning, and performance metrics are met before production approval. For individuals entering a creative field, this role provides essential hands-on exposure to the industry flow.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for administration and follow up of the product design process, with a focus on adobe Illustrator, photoshop and indesign programs to assist in the overall design process.
• Drive product relevance by synthesizing global market trends and color concepts into commercially viable, brand-right narratives.
• Drive the visual execution of design concepts by owning the creation of trend and color boards, while providing critical asset and presentation support for key milestone reviews and partner presentations.
• Champion product integrity by maintaining a meticulous library of accurate Illustrator CADs.
• Collaborate seamlessly with the Sr. 3D Apparel Designer to review, audit, and perfect all 3D product renderings for cross-functional presentation.
• Own and deliver clear, highly detailed tech sheets that streamline the development process from initial prototype to final product. Own clear communication of all tech sheet updates to Technical Designers and Product Developers.
• Work with the Print & Pattern team on print & graphic development – creating concept artwork, assisting with rework of print layouts and schematics, and maintaining color pitch forms, ensuring final print & colorways are correct for development.
• Create and maintain material and trim development forms.
• Assist with reviewing product design concepts and prototypes, helping to ensure the product meets all specifications & requirements. Own comparison of prototypes back to mechanicals, and documentation of any variance. Assist with validation of prototypes prior to tooling approval.
• Attend fitting sessions and/or wear-test sessions, capture necessary revisions to sketches/CADS and tech packs as needed. Partner with Associate Merchandiser & Sr. Product Line Manager to support the communication of updates out to cross-functional partners and vendor partners.
• Attend development meetings to monitor development progress. Ensure a detailed recap of progress and any issues is provided to the lead PLM when he or she cannot attend meetings.
• Responsible for updating the team of any style changes and uploading images to the PLM system.
• Responsible for creating and maintaining all pack & fold instructions.
• Assists Product Developer & Sr. Product Line Manager in approving lab dips, strike offs, print repeats, etc. and capturing any relevant notes / share out of revisions needed.
• Responsible for maintaining seasonal overview of all print, fabric, material and trim development.
• Responsible for maintaining all benefits and details information. Owns the integrity of the PDP pipeline, translating complex product attributes into accurate, consumer-facing verbiage.
• Supports product development with proofing all new seasonal packaging layouts. Ensures final approved mechanicals are uploaded to the PLM system. Supports Sr. Product Line Manager with any necessary visuals to support the seasonal package briefing process.

SKILLS: 

• Working knowledge of adobe illustrator, photoshop, and InDesign. Any experience in 3D modeling software (Rhino, etc) is a plus.
• Foundational knowledge of accessories products, materials, and manufacturing methods.
• Foundational knowledge and understanding of accessories & softgoods construction.
• Foundational knowledge of general design principles, and color theory.
• Ability to create basic 2D product sketches (in Illustrator).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize and multitask.

REQUIREMENTS: 

• BA or BS Degree in Product Design.
• One year design experience (may include summer jobs, internships, etc.).
• Proficient in Google suite, Adobe Suite, and working knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management Software.
• A passion for product.