What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Apparel Designer position at Cato Corporation?
Associate Apparel Designer - (On-Site)
Charlotte, NC 28273
Cato is seeking an experienced Associate Apparel Designer to join its Design Team.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Responsible for working with the Designer to create on-time development and execution of on trend, creative designs based on merchandising strategies.
- Work with the Designer to develop new ideas through competitive shopping, trend research and under the guidance of the VP, Design, Trend & Color.
- Proactive in bringing design suggestions to the Sr. Designer/Designer.
- Assist in Designing product catering to specific areas of business as needed. Work with Merchants in conjunction with Fashion Merchandising/CAD, Technical Services and Sourcing teams.
- Assist in the research of fabrics, trims and findings appropriate for season, concepts and cost.
- Create sketches based on the direction of the Sr. Designer/Designer.
- Interface with Design and Technical Development to update PLM/Flex for development styles
- Create detailed sketches via Illustrator.
- Ensure all design packages are completed accurately, and delivered timely.
- Required to adhere to timelines, uphold design integrity and high quality design execution throughout the entire development process.
- Communicate with appropriate partners throughout the product development process to ensure samples are progressing on track.
- Attend fittings as needed to assist Designer and Technical Specialists on fit.
WORK EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum 2 years experience as an associate or assistant designer with a proven track record in a fashion retail environment.
- Preferred experience in working with overseas suppliers.
- Experience in the use of fabrics and other materials and how they relate to design.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:
- Strong fashion and creative sense with a solid understanding of materials
- Excellent design and sketching skills for both technical drawings and freeform renderings.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast paced environment
- Experience with Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Excel, Word and Outlook.
- Must be able to draw technical sketches in Adobe Illlustrator
- Ability to manage and own a product category including scheduling meetings
- Presentation skills
- Strong verbal, written, analytical and interpersonal skills
- Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-up.
The Cato Corporation offers competitive salaries and excellent benefits including Medical/Dental/Life Insurance package, 401(K) Retirement Plan, Flexible Spending Plan, Stock Purchase Plan and more!
The Cato Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, national origin, disability, age, sex (including pregnancy), gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances.