Technical Designer - Temp

Who We Are

At Tillys , we're a leading specialty retailer offering casual apparel, footwear, and accessories for young men, women, boys, and girls. Our extensive collection features iconic global brands, emerging labels, and proprietary lines, all rooted in an active and social lifestyle.

Based in sunny Southern California, our Retail Support Center (RSC ) is the heart of our corporate operations, dedicated to supporting both our retail and online stores. The RSC is where strategy meets execution. From trend forecasting to tech innovation, our teams work together to bring the Tillys experience to life — both in-store and online.

Position Summary

Tillys is seeking a candidate with experience ranging from Associate Technical Designer to Technical Designer. Below is a brief overview of the responsibilities for this role. Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following :

Key Responsibilities

A typical day may include :

Work with the buying team to gain clear direction of design and fit intent while maintaining fitconsistency

Work closely with manager and buyers on deadlines of delivery for each style.

Create tech packs with detail sketches and specific construction details to ensure that first proto sample meet intended style, fit and construction.

Maintain all technical aspects of the tech pack sent to the vendor. This includes detailed construction, sewing instructions, measurement verification, tolerances, graded specs and fit comments.

Maintain and update block details as directed by Technical Design Manager.

Approve all graded specs once we have fit approval and maintain graded spec library.

Oversee the final technical specs for each sample.

Communicate fit comments and corrections to vendors, and factories using detailed sketches, and photos in order to develop a good fitting sample

Be able to identify potential production and quality problems at the development stage and make necessary recommended changes

Manage and facilitate fit sessions independently with fit models and buying team and ensure that fit and quality standards are met.

Ability to identify pattern inaccuracies and recommend corrective adjustments.

Support and contribute to visual construction of each style and make recommended style changes.

Research and resolve fit and construction issues using appropriate resources

Able to measure samples point by point when submitted by vendors.

Review construction of garments and communicate to buyers and vendors of any sewing problems.

Maintain and enter specs in Excel document.

Knowledge of garment construction for fashion knit tops, bottoms, and outer wear.

Work with PD Manager on any fit issues that develops during the pre-production / production process.

Write fit comments and corrections on correcting patterns / samples when needed.

Communicate with multiple domestic and overseas vendors; ensure clarity of construction, grading, and measurement requirements.

Qualifications

Your experience brings :

Proficient in the use of Excel and MS Word.

Proficient in the use of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator

Proficient with annotated photo feedback for vendor clarity.

Strong merchandising, product, and analytical skills.

Demonstrated leadership and decision-making skills.

Must be familiar with using fractions as a source of measuring and be able to convert them into decimal system.

Ability to perform all essential duties and responsibilities listed above.

Detail oriented and organized.

Must be able to communicate in a professional manner and respond with timeliness.

Able to effectively use common office equipment.

Resourceful and able to research problems and recommend solutions.

Numerical and analytical ability required.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Trend and fashion awareness with ability to understand current trends, competition and market.

Ability to reprioritize projects frequently.

Must have ability to multitask.

Independent, self-motivated, team player.

Able to effectively communicate with all levels of staff and management.

Strong problem-solving skills, especially when troubleshooting unexpected sample issues.

Education & Experience

4 years minimum of technical design experience required.

High School Diploma required.

Minimum 2 year AA degree required (preferably in Fashion Design).

Bachelors Degree preferred.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Professional office setting with low to moderate noise

Ability to sit or stand for extended periods

Regularly lift / move up to 20 lbs and navigate stairs

Frequent walking and movement between floors / departments

Reasonable accommodation is available to support individuals with disabilities

Leadership & Team Development

While this is not a leadership role, we value team players who embody proactive collaboration, curiosity, accountability, and a growth mindset. Opportunities to grow and develop within the company are strongly supported.

Compensation

Hourly Range : 65k – $80k

Final offer will be based on experience, skills, and qualifications.

What to Expect

Schedule :

Full-time role with weekday office hours; occasional evening or weekend work may be required during peak retail seasons.

Work Location :

Irvine, CA — minimum of 4 days per week in-office.

Why Join Tillys?

At Tillys, we thrive in a creative, collaborative, and high-energy environment where individuality is not just accepted — it's celebrated. Whether you're brainstorming bold new campaigns or fine-tuning behind-the-scenes processes, your work makes a real impact. We foster a culture of inclusion, innovation, and recognition, where professional growth is supported, wins are celebrated, and having fun is part of the process. Join a team that values authenticity, teamwork, and always strives for excellence.

Perks & Benefits

401(k) Retirement Plan – Save for your future with our company-sponsored plan

Health Coverage – Medical, dental, vision, life, and additional voluntary benefits

Employee Discount – In-store and online

Discount Programs – Save on travel, events, and more

Employee Sample Sales – Major deals on favorite brands

Wellness & Social Events – Fitness programs, parties, and team outings

Weekly Office Snacks – Stay fueled with stocked treats

Equal Opportunity Employer & Fair Chance Hiring

Tillys is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

In compliance with California law, Tillys will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the California Fair Chance Act.

Other Considerations

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to individuals with disabilities to enable them to perform essential job functions.

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