Assistant Designer

Overview Assistant Designer – Denim Position Summary The Assistant Designer – Denim COE supports the design and development of seasonal denim collections from concept through production for Nautica Women’s. This role works closely with the Denim Design team and cross-functional partners to execute brand-right, trend-driven products that align with customer needs and business objectives. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about denim and fashion trends. They possess a strong understanding of apparel design fundamentals, are eager to learn technical aspects of denim product development, and thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. This role provides an opportunity to contribute creatively while supporting the day-to-day design process across multiple stages of development. Key Responsibilities Design Support & Creative Development Support the design team in the creation and development of seasonal denim collections across assigned categories. Research fashion, denim, cultural, and social media trends to identify opportunities relevant to the Nautica customer. Assist in the preparation of inspiration boards, seasonal concepts, trend presentations, and color direction. Create and update sketches, CADs, technical flats, and presentation materials under the guidance of senior design leadership. Help develop washes, fabrications, trims, and design details that support seasonal product initiatives. Conduct competitive shopping and market research across retail channels and online platforms. Product Development & Technical Support Assist in the creation and maintenance of tech packs, ensuring design details, construction information, trims, and wash instructions are accurately documented. Organize and track sample development throughout the product lifecycle. Support wash development by reviewing strike-offs, wash submissions, and samples with manager for design consistency. Prepare samples, reference materials, and comments for fittings and review meetings. Partner with Technical Design and Product Development teams to communicate updates and maintain accurate records. Help ensure design specifications are updated and entered into PLM systems in a timely manner. Cross-Functional Collaboration Work closely with Design, Merchandising, Technical Design, Product Development, Production, and Sourcing teams throughout the development process. Participate in sample reviews, fittings, seasonal meetings, and line reviews. Communicate sample status, design updates, and development needs to internal and external partners. Assist in preparing seasonal presentations and leadership review materials. Trend & Market Research Monitor denim and fashion trends through retail research, social media, runway coverage, and competitive analysis. Maintain trend, wash, fabric, and inspiration archives for the design team. Track industry developments in denim fabrics, silhouettes, washes, sustainability, and consumer preferences. Administrative & Organizational Support Maintain organized sample libraries, wash standards, fabric swatches, trims, and seasonal design records. Assist with seasonal calendar management and ensure key milestones are met. Organize design files, line sheets, presentation decks, and seasonal documentation. Support special projects and additional design initiatives as needed. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Design, or a related field. 0–2 years of design experience, internships, or relevant experience within the apparel industry preferred. Strong interest in denim design, fashion trends, and product development. Basic knowledge of apparel construction, fit, fabrics, washes, and garment development processes. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Excel and PowerPoint. Experience with PLM systems is a plus. Strong sketching, CAD, and technical flat skills. Excellent organizational, communication, and time-management abilities. Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Collaborative mindset with a strong willingness to learn and grow within a design team. Familiarity with AI design and visualization tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Vizcom, or comparable platforms is a plus. Core Competencies Trend Research & Consumer Awareness Denim & Apparel Design Fundamentals Technical Flats & CAD Development Product Development Support Organization & Attention to Detail Cross-Functional Collaboration Time Management Creative Problem Solving Communication Skills Adaptability & Learning Agility Microsoft Office & Adobe Creative Suite Proficiency AI-Assisted Design Tools Awareness and Application Pay Range USD $57,200.00 - USD $104,000.00 /Yr.