Vans: Technical Designer

About the role

Vans is the original brand rooted in the authentic lifestyle of skateboarding. We are driven by our mission to inspire and empower everyone to live “Off The Wall” – embracing the youthful spirit of freedom, non-conformity, and relentless progression. This role is key in translating Vans’ design intent and Off the Wall mindset into technically sound, production-ready product that reflects the brand’s heritage, authenticity, and connection to action sports and street culture.

Responsibilities

• Translate design intent into technically executable fit by identifying risks early and driving solutions.
• Develop and approve technical specifications grounded in approved blocks, standards, and/or market samples.
• Review samples ahead of fittings to ensure prior fit and construction comments are resolved.
• Lead fit sessions with clarity and authority, driving issue resolution and next-step alignment.
• Deliver clear, actionable fit comments to factory partners.
• Update existing block patterns to align with Vans and VF standards.
• Oversee the block pattern library and keep it organized.
• Drive new block pattern development while balancing seasonal priorities to elevate fit consistency and uphold Vans fit standards.
• Leverage benchmarking and market research to evolve fit and inform continuous improvement.
• Execute to Vans Product Development calendars and SOPs, delivering fit comments and approvals accurately and on time.
• Partner with VF Regional teams to meet timeline, quality, and production requirements.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in Technical Design across men’s and women’s apparel, with expertise spanning tops, bottoms, outerwear, denim, knits, and wovens.
• Strong ability to assess garment fit on live models and fit forms, with a trained eye for proportion, balance, functionality, fabric behavior, and a range of body profiles.
• Hands-on patternmaking experience, including pattern development, grading, and garment sizing; strong technical pattern knowledge is required.
• Solid understanding of garment construction, manufacturing processes, materials, trims, and finishing techniques.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop.
• Experience working in PLM systems (Enovia/Flex or equivalent).
• Working knowledge of Gerber, Optitex, or Browzwear.
• Detail-oriented, articulate, and highly organized, with effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple seasons, timelines, and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong collaboration skills, a solution-driven mindset, and comfort working in a global, cross-functional, fast-moving environment.
• Results-oriented and process-driven, with a high degree of agility and adaptability.
• A growth mindset and enthusiasm for learning new tools, improving processes, and solving problems.
• Brings a diverse perspective that supports our global growth, while fostering inclusion and valuing different points of view.

Qualifications

• Experience with 3D tools or software is a plus, especially if you’re excited about new ways to build and visualize product.
• Background in skate, action sports, or performance apparel.
• Connection to the brand and an authentic understanding of the Vans mindset, style, and culture.

Skills

• Experience with 3D tools or software is a plus, especially if you’re excited about new ways to build and visualize product.
• Background in skate, action sports, or performance apparel.
• Connection to the brand and an authentic understanding of the Vans mindset, style, and culture.

Benefits

We offer extensive development and growth opportunities for your current and future positions, a competitive compensation package, and a strong benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and 401(k).

Pay

Hiring Range: $82,880.00 USD - $102,600.00 USD annually

Schedule

Hybrid schedule in-office in Costa Mesa, CA.