Technical Designer

About the role

Imperial is seeking a detail-oriented, junior-level Technical Designer with 1–3 years of experience to join our team in a hybrid capacity based near St. Louis, Mo. This role focuses on the administrative side of product development - specing out detailed work with a high degree of accuracy - and will primarily support our headwear line, with occasional support for our Pukka and Winston brands. This position reports directly to the Product Manager.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed tech packs for headwear styles
• Create and update construction drawings, callouts, BOMs, specs, and colorway documentation for each style
• Collaborate with and support the Product and Design team to translate design concepts into accurate, manufacturable specifications
• Communicate with sourcing team to ensure overseas and domestic vendors/factories maintain tech pack accuracy and resolve fit or construction questions
• Work cross-functionally with Product, Sourcing, and Quality teams to keep development on track
• Provide occasional tech pack and spec support for the Pukka and Winston brands
• Review and comment on proto samples, fit samples, and salesmen samples against approved tech packs
• Manage and track sample revisions, maintaining organized records of changes across development cycles
• Maintain an organized digital library in PLM system consisting of tech pack templates, construction standards, and approved trims
• Partner with the product manager to align on development calendars and seasonal deadlines
• Aid in building and refining internal technical standards and processes as the brand scales

Requirements

• 1–3 years of experience in apparel, soft goods, or headwear technical design
• CAD knowledge/exposure
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator for creating flat sketches and technical drawings
• Strong understanding of garment/accessory construction, materials, and manufacturing processes
• Experience building and managing tech packs from initial concept through production
• Solid grasp of BOM structure, trim callouts, measurement specs, and grading basics
• Highly organized with a strong understanding of manufacturing and development timelines
• Solid written and verbal communication skills for factory and vendor correspondence
• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple styles simultaneously
• Ability to work cross-functionally with Product, Sourcing, and Quality teams
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office for tracking and reporting

Preferred Experience

• With headwear-specific construction
• Familiarity with leather goods or soft goods construction
• Experience using PLM software or product development tracking tools
• Understanding of overseas manufacturing timelines and factory communication cadence
• Ability to read and interpret lab dip and strike-off approvals

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time while working at a computer or workstation
• Ability to use hands and fingers to operate standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and keyboards
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via electronic communication
• Occasional ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
• Ability to move throughout the facility, including walking, bending, and reaching as needed
• Visual acuity sufficient to read screens, documents, and reports

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match
• Health care (medical, dental, vision)
• Employee Assistance Program
• PTO (vacation, personal days, and 9 company holidays)
• Opportunities for continuing education and professional growth
• Employee product discounts
• Free hats

Company Overview

Since 1916, Imperial has epitomized luxury, authenticity, and individuality by crafting premium headwear, apparel, and accessories with an unwavering dedication to quality and detail. Our team is committed to excellence–serving customers in golf, retail, corporate, and destination/leisure markets. We are available in the top resorts, golf courses, national sporting events, and retail locations nationwide. As the #1 headwear brand* in the golf market and an entrusted licensing partner for companies including Nike, Adidas, and Peter Millar–Imperial is leading the industry in decorative apparel.

Our Mission

We create and deliver innovative, and premium quality products with unmatched speed and exceptional service. Imperial is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to providing a workplace free from harassment and discrimination. We are committed to recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds.