Lead Technical Designer

Company: Vantage Custom Classics
Location: Avenel
Posted on: April 1, 2026

Job Description:

What sets us apart? Competitive compensation plan, base salary, and annual incentive Health Benefits: medical, dental, vision, short term and long- term disability and wellness programs 401-k plan with company match Comprehensive Paid Time Off and Holidays Collaborative and Innovative work environment COMPANY OVERVIEW Vantage Apparel is a leading global supplier of custom logo apparel, offering a wide range of high-quality garments and accessories for corporate, promotional, and teamwear needs. As the exclusive provider of Greg Norman®, POLO® Ralph Lauren®, Xtreme Visibility™, Redwood Classics™, and Lane Seven Apparel, Vantage has been the industry’s top-awarded decorator for 30 consecutive years. Since joining forces with Lynka in 2021 to expand our European presence, we have continued to grow our global reach while earning recognition as an ASI Top 40 Supplier and a PPAI Gold Pyramid Top 100 Supplier (12 in 2025). With more than four decades of experience and multiple “Best Places to Work” honors, Vantage has been the leading B2B innovator in the promotional apparel industry since 1977, delivering exceptional service and innovative solutions to customers worldwide. Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Lead end-to-end technical development from initial concept through bulk production. Partner with Merchandising to translate creative vision into production-ready garments. Create and issue detailed tech packs including CAD illustrations, specs, construction details, grading, and BOMs to overseas factories. Track development progress and maintain communication with cross-functional teams and overseas factories to support new product development and minimize sampling delays. Schedule and conduct fit sessions, evaluate samples, and provide clear technical feedback to relevant parties. Evaluate garment specifications, fit, and construction throughout development, including pre-production, PP, TOP, and size set samples, documenting findings and providing technical direction to overseas vendors. Troubleshoot technical production issues and recommend practical solutions. Update and maintain tech packs for existing and new styles as needed. Establish and maintain garment fit standards across product categories. Ensure consistency of measurements, tolerances, and grading across size ranges. Evaluate factory capabilities and construction methods to support efficient production. Maintain development tracking documents and coordinate shipment of reference garments, color swatches, and accessories. Support the QA Lab Technician with day-to-day production approval as needed based on workload. Manage approvals for labels, hangtags, trims, and accessories in a timely manner. Perform special projects and additional duties as assigned by management. Requirements IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Solid technical knowledge of garment construction, fit standards, grading, fabrics, trims, and sewing techniques. Proficiency in garment measurement techniques and interpreting technical specifications. Ability to lead fit sessions, evaluate garment fit, and document accurate and detailed notes. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to clearly convey technical guidance and creative solutions. Strong mathematical accuracy for precise specification development and revisions. Highly organized with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. Collaborative team player who builds strong working relationships across cross-functional teams and organizational levels. Proactive problem-solver with strong decision-making skills and a solutions-oriented mindset. Experience working with overseas factories and vendors. Proficient in measurement techniques and interpreting technical specifications. Proven ability to communicate creative solutions with confidence, ease and clarity. EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE COMPUTER SKILLS Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Technical Design, Fashion Design, or a related field, with a minimum of 2 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Creative Suite, and InDesign software for creating technical sketches and specifications. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. At Vantage Apparel we are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of race, sex, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, citizenship, age, marital status, disability, gender identity, Veteran status, or other legally protected status.

Keywords: Vantage Custom Classics, Bridgeport , Lead Technical Designer, Engineering , Avenel, Connecticut