Jobs
HEAD PATTERNMAKER/ GERBER OR OPTITEX
Location: BROOKLYN, NY
Salary: 175-200k+
Job#: 9160
Recruiter: Todd Wayne
Description:
Head / Senior Patternmaker is responsible for leading the development of first patterns and ensuring all garments are production-ready, consistent in fit and quality, and aligned with brand design intent. This role combines advanced patternmaking expertise with strong technical design knowledge to bridge the creative and production processes. The Senior Patternmaker partners closely with Design, Technical Design, Production, and factory teams to deliver garments that meet aesthetic, functional, and commercial standards. Better Dress, Ready to wear, & Private label
Responsibilities:
- Lead the creation, development, and finalization of first patterns using manual and CAD methods (Gerber 10.4, Lectra, Optitex, or similar).
- Supervise 4 TD/ patternmakers and 2 will report to Directly to you.
- Conduct and lead fittings on live models, ensuring silhouettes, proportions, and construction details meet design intent while maintaining wearability and production feasibility.
- Collaborate with Technical Design and Production to review fit comments, implement corrections, and finalize patterns for bulk.
- Evaluate bulk garments (TOP, PPS, SMS) for fit, balance, and consistency across sizes, issue, and track corrections with factories through approval.
- Ensure patterns are production-ready and aligned with vendor capabilities, cost efficiency, and fabric usage standards.
- Oversee grading standards, measurements, and construction details to maintain consistency across categories.
- Approve factory patterns and counter samples, ensuring adherence to brand specifications and calendar deadlines.
- Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues that arise during sampling or production, proposing practical solutions.
- Collaborate closely with cross-functional partners (Design, Production, QA, Sourcing, and factories) to minimize quality risks and ensure smooth execution.
- Guide and mentor junior patternmakers and technical designers, building skills in fit evaluation, pattern corrections, and production readiness.
- Maintain accurate, organized pattern archives and technical packages.
- Work with the own Factories in China
Skills:
- Proven expertise in both manual and CAD patternmaking techniques; strong technical fit and garment construction knowledge.
- Experience conducting and leading fittings, with ability to translate feedback into precise pattern adjustments.
- Strong technical design background with hands-on experience managing production fittings, issuing approvals, and ensuring bulk accuracy.
- Expert understanding of fabrics, construction methods, and factory production processes, particularly for womenswear.
- Proficiency in patternmaking software (Gerber 10.4, Lectra, or similar), PLM systems, Adobe Illustrator, and Excel.
- Excellent communication skills to deliver clear, actionable feedback to vendors and cross-functional partners.
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple styles under tight timelines.
- Strong leadership, mentoring, and collaboration skills.
Desired Background & Experience:
- 10+ years of experience in women’s apparel patternmaking, with senior or leadership-level responsibilities.
- Degree or certification in Patternmaking, Fashion Design, Technical Design, or related field preferred.