Asst./Assoc. CAD Designer - Hco Mens

The Assistant/Associate CAD Designer at Abercrombie & Fitch Co. is responsible for researching customer trends, creating original patterns through illustration and design software, collaborating with design and merchandising teams, and preparing production files. This role is essential in ensuring that the prints and patterns stay fresh and in line with the company's brand identity.

To be an Assistant/Associate CAD Designer at Abercrombie & Fitch Co., you need a Bachelor's degree in Textiles, Fibers, or a related field, along with 1-4 years of CAD design experience, preferably in fashion retail. Proficiency in design software such as Kaledo and Adobe Suite is also required.

The ideal Assistant/Associate CAD Designer at Abercrombie & Fitch Co. should have a strong artistic eye, excellent illustration skills, and a deep understanding of color and style. Additionally, strong organizational and communication skills are crucial, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Abercrombie & Fitch Co. offers various educational and engagement opportunities, along with a culture that promotes internal advancement. They value their employees and provide support through Associate Resource Groups, volunteer opportunities, and competitive benefits that foster personal and professional growth.

As an Assistant/Associate CAD Designer at Abercrombie & Fitch Co., you will frequently use design software such as Kaledo Knit, Weave, and Print, as well as Adobe products like Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign to create and finalize your designs.

In my design process, I start by researching customer trends and gathering inspiration from various sources. I sketch initial ideas, create patterns using design software, and collaborate with teams to refine these concepts before finalizing them into send-out files.

I regularly review fashion publications, follow industry influencers on social media, and attend webinars or workshops. I also pay close attention to consumer preferences to ensure that my designs resonate with current market demands.

I am proficient in Kaledo for fabric design and have extensive experience working with Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Illustrator and Photoshop, to create and manipulate prints and patterns effectively.

I view feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. I actively listen to the constructive criticism, take notes, and implement the suggestions into my design process. Collaboration is key in creative environments.

One challenging project involved creating a cohesive pattern collection under a tight deadline. I organized my tasks efficiently, focused on key designs first while ensuring they aligned with market trends, and collaborated closely with my team to achieve the final look.

I find it incredibly rewarding to see how a simple sketch can transform into a finished product. When customers resonate with my designs, it gives me a sense of achievement and joy knowing I've contributed to their fashion experience.

I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and project importance. I use project management tools to keep track of my progress and adjust my schedule as needed, ensuring I stay focused and meet all deadlines effectively.

I believe communication is vital, so I frequently touch base with merchandise teams to understand their needs. I also present my ideas clearly and be open to adjustments based on their insights to ensure our designs align with business goals.

I immerse myself in the Abercrombie & Fitch brand values and past collections, ensuring my designs reflect the essence of the brand. I also gather feedback from team members to maintain alignment with brand expectations.

I admire Abercrombie & Fitch for its commitment to authenticity and creativity in fashion. I’m excited about the opportunity to work in a dynamic and inclusive environment where I can contribute my skills while growing with a reputable brand.