What are the responsibilities and job description for the Soft Goods and Apparel Lead Designer position at Gooby?
Company Description Gooby designs innovative, functional, and fashionable dog apparel that enhances the everyday lives of small dogs and their companions. The company focuses on combining performance, comfort, and style to meet the unique needs of small-breed dogs in diverse climates and lifestyles. Team members collaborate closely to bring thoughtful design and high-quality materials into every product. Working at Gooby offers the opportunity to shape a growing brand in the pet apparel market while contributing to meaningful improvements in the human–pet experience.
Role Description The Soft Goods and Apparel Lead Designer is a full-time, on-site role based in Los Angeles, CA. This role leads the end-to-end design process for soft goods and dog apparel, from concept development and trend research through final specifications for production. Daily tasks include creating sketches and technical drawings, selecting fabrics and trims, developing color stories, and managing fittings to refine fit, comfort, and functionality for small dogs. The Lead Designer collaborates with product development, sourcing, and marketing teams to ensure designs are practical, cost-effective, and aligned with brand identity. The role also involves maintaining design documentation, overseeing samples, providing clear feedback to factories, and contributing to seasonal line planning and innovation initiatives.
Qualifications
Role Description The Soft Goods and Apparel Lead Designer is a full-time, on-site role based in Los Angeles, CA. This role leads the end-to-end design process for soft goods and dog apparel, from concept development and trend research through final specifications for production. Daily tasks include creating sketches and technical drawings, selecting fabrics and trims, developing color stories, and managing fittings to refine fit, comfort, and functionality for small dogs. The Lead Designer collaborates with product development, sourcing, and marketing teams to ensure designs are practical, cost-effective, and aligned with brand identity. The role also involves maintaining design documentation, overseeing samples, providing clear feedback to factories, and contributing to seasonal line planning and innovation initiatives.
Qualifications
- Strong fashion design foundation with skills in Fashion Design and Fashion, including concept development, sketching, and technical packages.
- Expertise in soft goods materials and construction, including Textiles and Trims, with the ability to select appropriate fabrics and components for durability, comfort, and aesthetics.
- Hands-on experience with Fitting, including leading fittings, evaluating garment performance on small dogs, and translating fit feedback into pattern and design updates.
- Proficiency in design tools (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or similar) and familiarity with PLM or product development systems.
- Understanding of end-to-end apparel development, from prototype to production, including collaboration with factories and vendors.
- Strong visual communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to present design concepts clearly to cross-functional teams.
- Ability to work on-site in a collaborative studio environment, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced setting.
- Prior experience in pet apparel, performance wear, or functional fashion is a plus.
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Textile Design, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.