NHS, Inc.:
Men’s CNS Apparel, Headwear & Accessories Designer Job in Santa Cruz, CA

This position is a key member of the NHS Apparel Development staff, reporting to the Apparel Department Manager, working closely and cooperatively with Shipping, Logistics, Sales, Production, and other members of the NHS team. This is a full-time position.

Job duties include but are not limited to:

• Working collaboratively with Creative Director, Design teams, and Brand Managers, design all mens CNS garments, hats, accessories, and backpacks for all NHS brands based on seasonal calendar releases
• Design SMU product for CNS garments, hats, accessories, and backpacks as requested from SMU Merchandiser, Sales/Key Accounts
• Design Key Account exclusive ranges appropriate to customer needs based on feedback from KA and Sales
• Determine fit requested per each CNS piece and work with Technical Designer to ensure that fit is achieved per request.
• Review prototypes/patterns for accuracy in fit, grading, construction, function and aesthetic execution of design with Technical Designer, Product Developer and/or Merchandiser
• Work closely with Technical Design and Developer for approval of all responsible styles and to ensure proper execution of design
• Trend forecasting for responsible product types to stay up to date with current happenings in market. Research and analysis using key accounts, media/internet, shopping, etc. to establish key style, trend, construction and textile concepts
• Work with Sales for feedback on future range developments of Apparel
• Present pre-line style to Sales/Merchandising/Brand Management/Creative Directors
• Present products at seasonal Sales meetings
• Attend and participate in all brand related meetings/line development meetings
• Set seasonal color palette with Santa Cruz, Independent, Creature, and Slime Balls Design teams
• Collaborate with Santa Cruz, Independent, Creature, and Slime Balls Design teams for development of graphics needed for responsible product categories
• Collaborate with OJ, Bronson, Krux and other misc. design team on development of graphics intended for headwear and accessory lines
• Review seasonal catalogs for designed/developed products to ensure correct information is being presented
• Create notes for photo samples and sales samples corrections for communication across departments
• Track SMU’s as needed alongside SMU Merchandising and Development
• Manage finalization of product from concept to production
• Develop strong knowledge of supplier base and sourcing for capabilities
• Practice smart design and engineering to achieve target pricing
• Follow through for hand off to hit all calendar dates


Requirements:
• Minimum of 3-5+ years relevant experience in lifestyle product
• Experience in designing for both Men’s, Headwear and Accessories preferable
• Experience in garment fit & construction
• Ability to interpret the needs of the market, retailers and merchandisers & directors
• Thorough knowledge of the product design & development process, including color design, fabric and trim development
• Capability to independently manage workload, present and report at a senior level
• Highly developed organization and time management skills
• Highly developed interpersonal and communication skills
• High level of problem solving and decision-making ability
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail