What are the responsibilities and job description for the Apparel Technical Designer - Entry Level position at Relay Distribution?
Technical Designer — Entry Level SOON ProDev & Manufacturing | Houston, TX | Full-Time |
About the Role
We're looking for a detail-oriented and motivated Entry Level Technical Designer to join our apparel design and manufacturing team. You'll work alongside senior designers to bring concepts from sketch to production — developing tech packs, measuring and documenting samples, and coordinating fit sessions to ensure our garments are built to spec. This is a hands-on role with real ownership from day one.
What You'll Do
- Assist in building and maintaining detailed tech packs including construction details, BOM, grading rules, and measurement specs
- Measure inbound samples and input spec data accurately into PLM software
- Create and update technical flat sketches using Adobe Illustrator or equivalent tools
- Support fit sessions by documenting comments, tracking alteration history, and updating proto records
- Communicate fit and construction notes clearly to internal teams and overseas vendors
- Track sample status, revision rounds, and approval checkpoints across multiple styles
- Maintain organized digital files for all styles in PLM and shared project folders
- Support the design team with cadence planning, seasonal calendar management, and deadline tracking
- Assist with client communication related to technical questions, revisions, and approval sign-offs
- Flag quality or construction issues early and escalate to senior designers as needed
Required Qualifications
- Degree or certification in Fashion Design, Technical Design, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Working knowledge of garment construction, pattern reading, and measurement techniques
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator for flat sketching
- Familiarity with tech pack structure and garment spec sheets
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry
- Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with vendors and clients
- Organized, deadline-driven, and able to manage multiple styles at once
Nice to Have
- Experience with PLM software (Backbone, Flex PLM, or similar)
- Knowledge of wovens, knits, and performance fabrics
- Experience with overseas vendor communication
- Understanding of size grading and fit standards
- Familiarity with costing and BOM structure
- Background in activewear, streetwear, or basics
Skills & Tools
Adobe Illustrator · Tech Packs · PLM Software · Flat Sketching · Garment Measurement · BOM / Spec Sheets · Fit Evaluation · Vendor Communication · Photoshop · Microsoft Excel
Compensation
$55,000/year · Full-Time · W-2 · In-person, Houston TX
About Us
We're an apparel design and manufacturing agency specializing in building brands from the ground up — from concept and tech packs through production and delivery. We work with a range of clients across categories including streetwear, activewear, and lifestyle apparel. Fast-moving, collaborative, and obsessed with quality.
Salary : $55,000