Fashion Designer

Role Overview

Confluence Guild Co. is seeking a versatile, high-energy Lead Fashion Designer to spearhead our product development from concept to consumer. As a startup, we don't just need a visionary; we need a doer who understands the mechanics of garment construction, the logistics of procurement, and the grit required to manage production cycles and a growing team of interns.

Key Responsibilities

1. Design & Creative Direction

• Develop original seasonal concepts, mood boards, and color palettes.
• Create detailed sketches and digital renderings for new collections.
• Innovate on silhouettes and patterns (with a focus on high-quality, wearable designs).

2. Technical Design & Tech Packs

• Construct comprehensive Tech Packs, including detailed measurements, BOM (Bill of Materials), and construction notes.
• Translate creative designs into technical specifications that factories can execute with precision.
• Oversee the 3D design process or flat sketching (Adobe Illustrator/CLO 3D).

3. Procurement & Sourcing

• Identify and vet fabric suppliers, trim vendors, and manufacturing partners.
• Negotiate pricing and lead times to ensure production stays within budget.
• Maintain a library of swatches and materials for future development.

4. Sampling & Fit Development

• Manage the end-to-end sampling process, from proto-samples to salesman samples.
• Lead fit sessions, providing clear, actionable feedback to pattern makers and factories.
• Ensure the final product aligns perfectly with the original design intent and quality standards.

5. Production Management

• Coordinate with manufacturing units to ensure timely delivery of production runs.
• Perform quality control (QC) checks at various stages of the manufacturing process.
• Troubleshoot supply chain bottlenecks and production delays.

6. Leadership & Mentorship

• Recruit, train, and manage a team of design interns.
• Delegate tasks effectively while maintaining a high standard of output.
• Foster a collaborative, creative, and efficient studio culture.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: 2–3 years in fashion design, with proven experience in technical design and production management.
• Technical Mastery: Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop) and Excel. Experience with PLM software is a plus.
• Garment Construction: Deep knowledge of textiles, draping, pattern making, and sewing techniques.
• Startup Mindset: Comfortable with ambiguity, rapid pivots, and wearing multiple hats.
• Communication: Exceptional ability to communicate technical requirements to manufacturers and creative visions to stakeholders.

Why Join Confluence Guild Co.

• This isn't just a design job; it's an opportunity to build a brand's DNA from the ground up. You will have a direct impact on the company's aesthetic, operational efficiency, and future growth.

1. Architect the Brand DNA

As a founding designer, you aren't just following a style guide—you are writing it. At Confluence Guild Co., we bridge the gap between creative artistry and manufacturing precision. You will have a seat at the table for every major product decision, shaping the aesthetic identity of our collections from the first sketch to the final stitch.

2. True End-to-End Ownership

Most design roles are siloed. Here, you will master the full lifecycle of fashion. You will move from digital rendering to fabric procurement, and from technical tech-pack construction to production floor management. This is a rare opportunity to gain 360-degree expertise in how a clothing brand actually scales.

3. A Culture of Technical Precision

We believe that great design is nothing without great execution. We value logical workflows, technical accuracy, and operational efficiency. You will work in an environment that respects the math of fashion—using advanced tools and streamlined production logic to minimize waste and maximize quality.

4. Leadership & Legacy

You won't just be managing tasks; you'll be building a team. By mentoring our interns and vetting our supply chain partners, you will establish the standards of excellence and the collaborative studio culture that will define Confluence Guild Co. for years to come