ASSISTANT TECHNICAL KNITWEAR DESIGNER

Job Description

Established in 1962 by Co-Founder and then Chief Designer Marie Gray, St. John is the epitome of American Luxury. Starting with a single knit shift dress, Gray’s initial vision expanded into a full lifestyle collection including signature knitwear and a timeless wardrobe of elegant and effortless dressing, each piece defined by luxe finishes, hand embellishment and attention to detail. Today St. John employs more than 1,500 people and is vertically integrated with workshops, stores and offices around the world. Its collections are sold in high-end specialty retailers in 19 countries, 37 company-owned stores and through the brand’s e-commerce site stjohnknits.com.

The Technical Knitwear Designer will support the Product team throughout the fit process, be part of a creative environment collaborating with a dynamic product team and cross-functional partners in the business. Participate in the development of St. John Knitwear collections within set timeframes and deadlines. Assist and manage special projects supporting Product department as assigned.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Tech Pack Creation: Develop detailed technical packages (tech packs) that include garment specifications, measurements, construction details, and fit notes.

Pattern Manipulation & Grading: Work with patterns, ensuring accurate sizing and grading for different sizes.

Construction Knowledge: Possess a strong understanding of knitwear construction techniques, including stitch types, fabrics, and machinery.

Fit Analysis: Evaluate garment fit during sample stages, identify and address fit issues, and make necessary adjustments.

Quality Control: Ensure that the finished product meets quality standards and specifications.

Collaboration & Communication:

Design Team Liaison: Work closely with designers to understand their vision and translate it into a technically feasible garment.

Pattern Maker & Sample Maker Collaboration: Collaborate with pattern makers and sample makers to ensure accurate pattern creation and sample production.

Factory Communication: Communicate with factories (domestic and overseas) to address production issues, ensure quality, and manage timelines.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

Research & Development: Stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and techniques in knitwear production.

Problem-Solving: Identify and resolve technical issues that arise during the production process.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: The following are the minimum qualifications needed to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of the position.

Education/Experience:

1 – 3 year’s knitwear experience

A college level degree in Design; BFA strongly preferred.

Experience with a luxury women’s brand

Apparel technical, garment construction background

Efficient computer skills in Microsoft Office, Photo Shop, Illustrator, InDesign, and company intranet

Current PLM program we use is Backbone/Bamboo Rose, experience preferred but not necessary.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: In general, the following physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to allow differently-abled individuals to perform the essential functions of the job.

Must be able to see, hear and speak in order to communicate with employees and other customers

Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus

Manual dexterity required using hands to finger; handle, feel and type; reach with hands and arms

Must be able to lift, move and carry up to 20 lbs

Full-time