Job Description
Job Summary:
As one of the fastest-growing apparel brands, Cabot Hosiery Mills is seeking a Product Designer to join our creative team. This role will support the Design Manager and VP of Design/Development in driving seasonal design from concept to manufacturing. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of sock design and a strong talent for color combinations that enhance the brand’s visual identity. You will contribute original and trend-driven designs that meet market needs, drive sales, and uphold our commitment to comfort, durability, and fit.
Key Responsibilities: - Collaborate with the VP of Design/Development, Design Manager, and Product Line Manager to develop seasonal design themes aligned with the broader assortment strategy, emerging trends, consumer insights, and sales needs.
- Conduct in-depth design research and contribute to concept development. Prepare presentation boards, mock-ups, color-ups, and inspirational imagery to inspire the team.
- Create original and visually impactful sock patterns, prints, and graphics in Illustrator or bitmap formats that align with the brand’s focus on comfort, durability, and fit.
- Design compelling and commercially viable color combinations, ensuring each collection is both visually appealing and market ready. A strong understanding of color theory and its application is crucial to this role.
- Work closely with designers and product developers to finalize artwork and technical specs for prototype packages, ensuring alignment with the seasonal calendar.
- Collaborate with Product Developers and the Samples team using a live model to assess prototypes for fit and design and drive innovative product solutions that align with project scope.
- Partner with the Design Manager to present the story, mood, color theories and product features for the season.
- Assist in researching new materials, vendors, and techniques to drive innovation while supporting lean manufacturing and sustainability initiatives. A strong understanding of Merino wool and natural fibers is preferred.
- Maintain clear and consistent communication with internal and external teams to ensure the timely and accurate execution of projects.
- Perform other duties as requested.
- Travel domestically and internationally for trend research and development purposes.
Qualifications: - Creativity and artistic talent with proficiency in CAD tools like Illustrator, Photoshop, and/or similar design software.
- Strong portfolio showcasing design work, particularly in sock and hosiery design, as well as color application.
- Demonstrated excellence in color theory and the ability to create dynamic color palettes that enhance product appeal and align with brand identity.
- Ability to receive and apply constructive feedback on one's own work, while also providing thoughtful critique to refine team projects.
- A solid understanding of sock machinery and manufacturing processes is a plus, but a passion for sock design and color application is essential.
- Self-motivated, persistent, and eager to tackle design challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset.
- Team-oriented with an entrepreneurial spirit, thriving in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
- Ability to work independently, while balancing collaboration with other designers to refine and develop ideas.
- Strong organizational and time management skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Effective written, visual, and verbal communication skills.
- Experience in outdoor activities such as hiking, running, skiing, and/or snowboarding is a plus, contributing to an understanding of product function in real-world environments.
Education/Experience: - Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design/Development, Graphic Design, Arts, or a related field.
- 5+ years of experience in apparel or accessories design, with a focus on sock and hosiery design preferred. Experience with soft goods across all areas of the development process including merchandising, design, sourcing, and product development. Knowledge of sock manufacturing is a plus.
Working Conditions: - Manufacturing and office environment – occasional exposure to machinery, noise, and other conditions.
- Flexibility to manage changing priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Occasional domestic and international travel as needed.
Job Tags
Full time, Seasonal work, Outdoor,