VF: Principal Apparel Concept Designer (Innovation)
Core
Senior craft and technical leader responsible for shaping early-stage ideas into physical product through advanced prototyping, concept creation, and wear-test-ready sample construction.
Role type
Principal Innovation Apparel Maker (Senior IC)
Builds
Expert-level prototypes, functional 2D patterns, 3D garments, and durable test-ready samples for athlete and consumer wear testing.
Domain
Apparel innovation, performance textiles, advanced construction technologies
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
patternmaking, garment engineering, advanced construction techniques, performance materials knowledge, industrial sewing machine operation, CNC cutting, embroidery, lamination, bonding, rapid iteration, fit refinement, functional design, wear-test preparation, technical documentation, cross-functional collaboration, mentorship
Preferred skills
experience in performance apparel, advanced concepts, experimental construction technologies, emerging materials evaluation
Technologies
industrial sewing machines, CNC cutting, embroidery equipment, lamination/bonding machinery
Responsibilities
Build expert-level prototypes using advanced construction methods and materials; translate concepts and research into functional patterns and garments; lead rapid iteration cycles for fit and functionality; construct durable samples for wear testing; operate and troubleshoot specialized equipment; mentor junior makers on craft excellence and best practices.
Seniority
Principal, hands-on IC with mentorship responsibilities