Technical Designer / Pattern Maker

Technical Designer / Pattern Maker

Portland, Oregon, United States

Company Overview

Perry Ellis International, Inc. represents a diverse portfolio of lifestyle apparel brands. The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries owns and licenses nationally and with a brand portfolio of over 40 Brands domestically and internationally recognized brands including: Perry Ellis®, Original Penguin® by Munsingwear®, Laundry by Shelli Segal®, Rafaella®, Cubavera®, Ben Hogan®, Savane®, Grand Slam®, John Henry®, Manhattan®, Axist® and Farah®. The Company enhances its roster of brands by licensing trademarks from third parties, including: Nike® for swimwear, and Callaway®, PGA TOUR®, and Jack Nicklaus® for golf apparel.

Summary: A highly skilled Technical Designer to lead the technical development of our competition and performance swimwear, including elite level suits. This role is ideal for someone who thrives at the intersection of creativity, innovation, and efficiency—someone who can translate design intent into impeccably built garments while driving cost-effective, scalable solutions.

You'll partner closely with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, and global vendors to ensure every style meets our standards for fit, quality, performance, and brand identity.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Drive the end-to-end technical development of competition swimwear, focusing on high-performance construction, material optimization for drag reduction, and regulatory compliance.
• Partner with Design to interpret creative concepts into technically sound products, utilizing 3D development tools to accelerate prototyping, visualize construction, and support design decision-making.
• Build and maintain comprehensive tech packs, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and manufacturability across all performance swim styles, focusing on elite level swim suits. Create and update specs, BOMs, construction details, and graded measurement charts.
• Develop and refine construction methods, identifying cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or performance. This includes expertise in ultrasonic welding, bonded seams, and specialty construction used in high-end competition suits.
• Lead team through fit approvals from concept to production, ensuring a consistent fit experience and optimal compression, evaluating prototypes, and providing precise technical direction to vendors.
• Communicate daily with global vendors to resolve technical challenges and maintain development momentum.
• Apply deep knowledge of pattern making, grading, and marker efficiency to optimize fit, consistency, and material usage, particularly for non-stretch and high-modulus performance fabrics.
• Contribute to block pattern development and approvals and collaborate with the Design Team on new fits for development.
• Adhere to multiple calendar deadlines, monitoring progress of all samples from development to pre-production, including wear tests and size set sample.
• Participate in continuous improvement of established technical design and product development processes.
• Lead special projects and assignments as needed.

Skills, Knowledge, & Abilities:

• Computer skills: Google Apps, Ms Windows, Adobe Illustrator, PLM, pattern design software (Optitex preferred), 3D Development Software (Browzwear preferred)

• Deep expertise in the technical development of elite-level competition swimsuits, including compression mapping, seam sealing, and specialized construction techniques.

• Proven ability to balance design vision with cost, manufacturability, and quality.

• Exceptional communication skills and a collaborative, solution-oriented mindset.

• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Dedicated team player

What's In It For You?

• Comprehensive Health: Premium Medical, Dental, and Vision plans designed to keep you and your family healthy and thriving.
• Financial Security: Secure your future with our 401(k) retirement plan (including a discretionary company match) plus company-provided Basic Life and AD&D Insurance .
• Work-Life Balance: Take the time you need to recharge with generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and a full schedule of paid Holidays .
• Growth & Support: We invest in your potential through our Tuition Reimbursement program for continuous learning and provide 24/7 personal support via our Member Assistance Program (MAP) .
• Team Culture: Join a community that celebrates your hard work with regular Associate Engagement Events , ranging from seasonal celebrations to on-site wellness activities.
• Exclusive Style Perks: Look your best for less with generous Associate Clothing Discounts across all our company stores and e-commerce sites.

Legal Disclaimer:

Perry Ellis International is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their individual background and characteristics. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. This commitment extends to all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, transfer, compensation, and termination. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree to the company's commitment to equal employment opportunities.

We encourage you to read and understand our Privacy Policy here.