Designer II

Job Title: Designer II

Reports To: Director of Design and Development

Company: Kokatat Inc. - ISO 9001:2015 Certified 

Location: Arcata, California U.S.A 

Salary: $70,304-$104,000/year

Position Type: Full-time, Exempt

ABOUT US:

Kokatat is a prominent Paddle Sports Apparel and Gear company that takes pride in its commitment to quality and innovation. As an ISO 9001:2015 certified organization, we strive to deliver exceptional products that meet the highest standards in the industry. We are looking for a skilled and motivated Designer to join our dynamic team and contribute to our ongoing success.

JOB PURPOSE:

As a Designer II at Kokatat you will play a substantial and influential role in product creation for the brand. You will work collaboratively with the team in executing a range of products to fulfill both seasonal line plans and response projects, driving the product development cycle from start to finish for your assigned projects. You will also play a part in shaping the overall category vision and product road map, in cooperation with Design Leadership. This position works directly under the Director of Design & Development. 

RESPONSIBILITY:

·        Support Design and Product Leadership in establishing category vision & product road map

·        Participate in creation of seasonal direction and line plan

·        Execute on assigned seasonal product designs, with an end result that is thoroughly considered, tested and validated, highly resolved, and commercialization ready.

·        Contribute towards creation of new and better toolbox solutions that will elevate product and brand (ex. features, constructions, etc.). Includes solving design challenges of mid to high difficulty / complexity.

·        Handle creation of detailed and accurate tech packs / product specifications, for products of moderate to high complexity.

·        Collaborate with Product Developers and Sourcing to gain visibility into cost estimates, MOQ and LOM considerations throughout the seasonal development cycle

·        Participate in creation & maintenance of various standards and guidelines - including but not limited to fit, branding, construction, tech packs etc.

·        Participate in ideation for Advanced Concept & Materials development needs

·        Support Design Leadership in establishing seasonal materials sourcing and development priorities, engage in follow through of said developments with Materials Team

·        Develop awareness of prevalent and emerging trends in marketplace, relevant activity spaces, and materials & technology with goal of advancing from solid to advanced understanding

·        Inspire, empower and support your peers and co-workers through your passion, drive, attitude and behavior

REQUIREMENTS:

•        A degree/diploma in Apparel or Industrial Design

•        3-5 years of experience in apparel design and construction, or have demonstrated equivalent experience

•        Thorough understanding of technical garment/gear construction

•        Intermediate level of experience with product development process involving offshore LOMs

•        Excellent communication skills – including verbal, written, visual means

•        Solid presentation skills

•        Excellent planning, organization, problem solving, and decision-making skills

•        A team mentality with the ability to take direction, work with minimal supervision, and collaborate with others

•        An active interest in the activities we support with our product

•        Thorough understanding of product development cycle from concept to production

•        Knowledge of technical garment and gear design, construction, and manufacturing

•        Awareness of existing and emerging trends in the market, in relevant activity spaces, and in materials and technology

•        Knowledge of product constraints such as cost limitations, MOQ/MCQ considerations and LOM capabilities, etc.

·        Proficiency in MS Office Suite

·        Proficiency in Adobe Suite

·        Strong skills in executing seasonal product designs and collaborating effectively within product team and cross functionally

·        Ability to handle design challenges of mid to high difficulty/complexity, through creative ideation and problem solving

·        Excellent communication skills across verbal, written, and visual means, along with solid presentation skills.

·        Exceptional planning and organization. This includes managing multiple projects, prioritizing tasks effectively, and adapting to changing requirements or timelines.

·        Ability to apply discerning aesthetic judgement

·        Ability to nurture a collaborative environment, working both independently and partnering with others as needed

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

·        Able to sit and/or stand for up to 8 hours per day 

·        Constant and repetitive movement of fingers, hands, and wrists 

·        Able to lift and carry up to 20lbs 

BENEFITS: 

·        Competitive salary 

·        Medical, Dental, Vision Life Coverage 

·        Health and wellness programs 

·        Retirement savings plan with Employer match 

·        Professional development opportunities 

·        Interindustry company discounts 

·        Collaborative and inclusive work environment 

OUR LOCAL AREA:

Surrounded by majestic redwood forests, Arcata offers a year-round mild climate. Our local area offers amenities you often find in larger cities but with a small-town feel and strong sense of community. Our community is rich in arts, music, theater, hiking, biking, and paddling with six nearby rivers and mountains as well as the Pacific Ocean at your doorstep. Arcata is also home to Cal Poly Humboldt, which offers not only wonderful educational opportunities, but many diverse cultural and athletic activities. Our local school system is outstanding and offers options of public, charter, and private schools.

Click here to learn more about our amazing area: https://www.visitredwoods.com/

Kokatat is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to excellence through diversity. Employment offers are made on the basis of qualifications and without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, family medical history, ancestry, religious creed, medical condition, marital status, reproductive health decision-making or any other protected characteristic under applicable law

Please visit our website at www.kokatat.com/careers or 5350 Ericson Way Arcata, CA for an application.

Kokatat, Inc.

5350 Ericson Way

Arcata, CA 95521

(707) 822-7621

Fax: (707) 822-1631

www.kokatat.com