Technical Design Manager & Patternmaker

Company Overview 

Founded by Santa Barbara-born sisters, Margaret and Katherine Kleveland, and a Collective of partners, DÔEN was launched in 2016 and is a digitally led, multi-channel fashion and lifestyle brand. Our mission is to create lasting, beautiful collections while supporting individuals in all aspects of the organization, supply chain, and community. We work with domestic and international partners who share our values and commitment to gender and social equality, and we give back by partnering with foundations that directly benefit our employees, value chain, and surrounding communities.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer

Description of Duties 

Title: Technical Design Manager & Patternmaker

Classification: Exempt 

Salary Range*:  $140k - $150k

Working Hours*: Monday through Friday 9:00AM-5:30PM

Schedule*: Onsite, 4 days in office, 1 day remote

Location: HQ: 14801 Califa St Van Nuys, CA 91411 

DÔEN is looking for a dynamic and experienced Technical Design Manager & Patternmaker to join our growing team in Los Angeles. This position is on site/in-office and will report to the VP of Technical Design. This role is primarily responsible for executing the design team’s aesthetic vision from development through production. The position partners closely with Design, Product Development, and Production teams and oversees pattern and fit development across assigned categories.Success in this role requires strong collaboration with internal teams, external vendors, and stakeholders at all levels of the organization. The responsibilities below show a glimpse into the role's key functions and the impactful contributions this position makes. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Accountable for executing block and development patterns as needed.
• Oversee a small team of Technical Designers and effectively manage workflow and priorities.
• Skilled in amending and correcting factory production patterns to ensure final approval, alignment with design intent, and manufacturing requirements.
• Communicate clear, concise fit and pattern corrections, partnering with vendors to troubleshoot issues, resolve construction and costing challenges, and expedite sample turnaround.
• Collaborate with vendors on 3D development, fit evaluations, and approvals as needed.
• Build initial tech packs and clearly instruct vendors on how to execute quality proto samples that align with the design vision and DÔEN fit aesthetic.
• Lead fittings with cross-functional partners to execute the design aesthetic and meet DÔEN fit standards.
• Proactively identify and address fit and construction issues while balancing fit, functionality, quality, and factory productivity.
• Manage multiple seasons and prioritize workload to meet critical calendar deadlines.
• Review and maintain DÔEN apparel construction, quality, grading, and tolerance standards.
• Work collaboratively with Senior Technical Designers and Technical Designers, providing mentorship and support to Associate and Assistant Technical Designers as needed.
• Foster a respectful, collaborative, and inclusive team environment.
• Support additional technical design initiatives, process improvements, and special projects as assigned.

Skills and Abilities: 

• Extensive knowledge of garment construction, pattern making, production sewing techniques, fabrications, and trims.
• Highly proficient in 2D pattern-making software, including Gerber, Lectra, Optitex, TUKA, or similar platforms.
• Experience managing and mentoring a team of Technical Designers and/or Patternmakers.
• Experience working with overseas, full-package vendors and managing technical development remotely.
• Practical, hands-on experience with 3D apparel software, including CLO3D, Browzwear, Optitex 3D, or similar platforms.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and contribute to the development and growth of TD talent.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to proactively troubleshoot and resolve complex fit, pattern, construction, and production issues.
• Strong computer skills, including Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Microsoft Word, and Excel.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Patternmaking, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 10+ years of experience as a Patternmaker, with demonstrated experience in team leadership or management.
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with team members across diverse backgrounds, skill sets, and cultural experiences.
• Demonstrated ownership, accountability, initiative, and sound judgment.
• Self-directed and able to work autonomously while exercising discretion and good judgment.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize competing projects and meet critical deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Action-oriented and results-driven, with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to lead, mentor, and inspire others while fostering a collaborative and inclusive team environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to perform essential duties satisfactorily with reasonable accommodation.
• Periods sitting at a desk, typing, sketching and working on a computer.
• Able to lift/move/push/pull objects up to 25 lbs.
• Able to walk, sit and stand for periods of time.
• Able to operate equipment such as computers, copy machines, phones.
• Must be able to access various areas of a given location.

Total Rewards Package  

• Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
• A fun-filled, creative work environment
• Healthcare, Vision, Dental
• 401k with company match
• Competitive salary
• Generous discount 

* Compensation will be determined based on experience and other factors permitted by law.

* The hybrid model may be rescinded at any time due to business needs or the company’s discretion.