Design Assistant

Who We Are

At Tillys, we’re a leading specialty retailer offering casual apparel, footwear, and accessories for young men, women, boys, and girls. Our extensive collection features iconic global brands, emerging labels, and proprietary lines, all rooted in an active and social lifestyle.

Based in sunny Southern California, our Retail Support Center (RSC) is the heart of our corporate operations, dedicated to supporting both our retail and online stores. The RSC is where strategy meets execution. From trend forecasting to tech innovation, our teams work together to bring the Tillys experience to life — both in-store and online.

Position Summary

We’re looking for a detail-oriented and proactive Design Assistant to support our Trend and Design Team. This position is a temporary role, with a possibility of temp to hire after six months based on company needs.

Key Responsibilities

A typical day may include:

• Assist in compiling the color / print direction for seasonal trend packages by researching & forecasting current fashion trends / colors.
• Collaborate with the design team to identify and build seasonal collections across categories/ classifications
• Supports the team on manipulating and recoloring in-house textile designs/graphics/ prints and embroidery when needed
• Assist in fittings and support with the Technical Design team to achieve consistent brand right, trend-right fits
• Obtains approvals for fabric, lab dip, and trims
• Communicates with related business partners regarding product development progress to the assigned categories; alerts the partners of any unexpected issues and negotiates resolutions with factories
• Maintain Time and Action Calendars tracking based on Vendor WIPs and submits
• Daily email communication with vendors
• Enter and update fit log with incoming samples details and sample status upon review
• Perform other duties as assigned and apparent.

Qualifications

Your experience brings:

• Excellent judgement at gauging trend curve for pre-peak, peak and post peak items and how it relates to Tillys customer. 
• Ability to drive business through significant item identification & development
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills and the ability to create, meet and maintain schedules
• Look at challenges with a positive attitude
• Ability to be productive in an open, ever changing, fast paced environment
• Demonstrates initiative, is conscientious and provides complete follow-through on areas of responsibility
• Excellent verbal, written and visual communication/presentation skills

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE and SKILLS:

·     Proficient in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop

·     Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint

·     Exceptionally organized with strong time management and multi-tasking ability

·     Must be self-managing

·     Strong creative, conceptual and merchandising skills

·     Excellent color sense

Education & Experience

• 1-2 years’ experience in Fashion/Retail/Wholesale industry preferred
• High School Diploma required.
• Bachelor’s degree, minimum 2-year AA degree or equivalent required (preferably in Fashion Design)

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Professional office setting with low to moderate noise
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
• Occasionally lift/move up to 20 lbs. and navigate stairs
• Frequent walking and movement between floors/departments
• Reasonable accommodation is available to support individuals with disabilities

Leadership & Team Development

While this is not a leadership role, we value team players who embody proactive collaboration, curiosity, accountability, and a growth mindset. Opportunities to grow and develop within the company are strongly supported.

Compensation

Hourly Range: $24 – $28/hr.
Final offer will be based on experience, skills, and qualifications.

What to Expect

Schedule: Full-time role with weekday office hours; occasional evening or weekend work may be required during peak retail seasons.
Work Location: Irvine, CA — minimum of 4 days per week in-office.

Why Join Tillys?

At Tillys, we thrive in a creative, collaborative, and high-energy environment where individuality is not just accepted — it’s celebrated. Whether you're brainstorming bold new campaigns or fine-tuning behind-the-scenes processes, your work makes a real impact. We foster a culture of inclusion, innovation, and recognition, where professional growth is supported, wins are celebrated, and having fun is part of the process. Join a team that values authenticity, teamwork, and always strives for excellence.

Perks & Benefits

• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Save for your future with our company-sponsored plan
• Health Coverage – Medical, dental, vision, life, and additional voluntary benefits
• Employee Discount – In-store and online
• Discount Programs – Save on travel, events, and more
• Employee Sample Sales – Major deals on favorite brands
• Wellness & Social Events – Fitness programs, parties, and team outings
• Weekly Office Snacks – Stay fueled with stocked treats

Equal Opportunity Employer & Fair Chance Hiring

Tillys is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Fair Chance Hiring: In compliance with California law, Tillys will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act.

Other Considerations

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform essential job functions.