Now that you’ve found the job description, what’s next?
At The North Face we dare to lead the world forward through Exploration. We were born to Explore, Disrupt and to Lead. We were born to Love Wild Places and to Spark Curiosity. We believe that exploration is a mindset - both on the mountain and off the mountain - and it infuses everything we do. As a community of explorers, we stay curious about new ideas, places, and people.
So, before we get to the job details, take a minute to learn a little more about us – our values and our culture. If you can see yourself working side-by-side with a team of adventure-loving people, The North Face just may be the place for you.
To learn more about our values and our culture, visit The North Face Careers or www.thenorthface.com.
What will you do?
A day in the life of a Sr. Patternmaker at The North Face looks a little like this.
As the Sr. Patternmaker, you will utilize your deep expertise related to patternmaking, block pattern development, grading, Standards and SOPs, manuals, workmanship, product fit to drive product consistency for The North Face. Harness your curiosity to research new product categories and drive the development, engineering, and fit execution for technologically advanced performance products of the highest level. You will work on Global Standards and Fit Initiatives which include competitive market research, competitive product fit reviews, high level expertise in pattern construction and grading, creating and evaluating fit blocks and analyzing consumer feedback to drive strong and consistent Brand fit. Utilize 2D Patternmaking CAD & 3D software and the Denver Proto Lab to bring new blocks and construction methods that will generate greater efficiencies and advancements in the development process. As part of a growing team of fit experts, you will support and mentor junior patternmakers and technical developers in fitting and patternmaking through active coaching, motivation, and technical training.
Let’s break down that day-in-the-life a bit more.
Create fit blocks that establish a recognizable fit, utilizing Gerber 2D CAD system
Evaluate, create and implement standard grade rules to ensure consistency in fit
Develop TNF product standards and guidelines including fit intent guardrails, training documents, and grade rules
Lead Seasonal block reviews with TD & Design and create fit presentations.
Provide expertise in garment construction, garment technology, quality and fit, acting as a consultant on fit, sizing and pattern related topics
Support the creation of digital assets
Contribute to and support the development of enhancement of systems to ensure Pattern/Fit requirements are met and to improve/innovate global product creation technologies
Conduct Global fit projects and initiatives and work closely with cross-functional teams on to understand the creative vision for each project, present findings from in depth research and analysis
Maintain the development schedule of all projects and products to ensure a timely completion following the product development calendar
Review, update and organize efficiently existing documents and create new ones
Create 3D digital product utilizing designated tools, Browzwear, to provide visual representation of new silhouettes and blocks
Collaborate with and influence Design as you research market trends and explore new technologies, materials, and construction methods
Increase awareness and understanding of fit and quality drivers within the organization through the education and training of key business counterparts
In collaboration with all global pattern teams, consolidate basic patterns across all BUs, ensure aligned needs of all Creation Center and is a contact for all basic pattern directions and application usage
Drive in collaboration with the global pattern teams the basic pattern consolidation across all Regions and cross category.
Guide and Mentor team members & new hires (Pattern Makers / TD / Design) in pattern making and fit
Interpret creative design concepts and translate aesthetic requirements into products that function for the athlete and perform to the high standards of the Brand
Some travel overseas to manufacturers may be required
What do you need to succeed?
We all have unique skills that we bring to work and celebrate every day. For this role, there are foundation skills you’ll need to succeed and excel. Additionally, while formal education in a related field is great to have, we are most interested in your 7+ years of experience and professional achievements.
The foundation skills you will need in this position are:
Advanced expertise in patternmaking, fit, construction, and grading and knowledge of manufacturing processes across diverse product categories
Able to independently research, develop and manage highly complex product
Advanced software skills in Gerber or similar CAD programs and 3D Design systems
Strong knowledge of production environment and sewing flow
Advanced knowledge about material and product quality
Possess a deep and end-to-end understanding of product creation
Advanced understanding of apparel construction, material construction and properties related to fit and quality.
Ability to provide (technical) training in product engineering and development to the whole development teams cross functionally
Advanced skills in SOP / Process
Ability to analyze complex problems and to provide customized solutions
Ability to work independently under minimal guidance on several projects simultaneously while adhering to a specified deadline
Exposure to the latest innovations in materials, trims, production processes, support systems and concepts
Proficient in MS Office, Adobe Illustrator and PLM programs
Excellent collaboration skills
Strong product acumen with working knowledge of apparel product development processes, including design, development, sourcing, and manufacturing
Growth mindset and enthusiasm for learning new tools and problem-solving
Results-oriented and process driven, with high degree of agility and adaptability
Passion for your work equal to your passion for getting outside and living it
What do we offer you?
At The North Face, we know you expect as much from us as we do from you. That is why we make a commitment to support and grow our people. We offer extensive development and growth opportunities for your current and future positions, a competitive compensation package, and a strong benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and 401(k).
Our commitment extends beyond this and into your daily work life. We strive to foster a diverse and inclusive culture based on respect, connection, and authenticity. Our focus on DEI is at the foundation of who we are and what we do.
To learn more about The North Face’s benefits package, follow this MyVFBenefits.com and click “Looking to Join VF”.
To learn more about The North Face’s Diversity and Inclusion efforts, go to www.thenorthface.com.
Now WE have a question for YOU.
Are you in?
Hiring Range:
$95,040.00 USD - $118,800.00 USD annuallyIncentive Potential: This position is eligible for additional compensation awards that may include an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential. Specific details of the additional compensation eligibility for this position will be provided during the recruiting and interview process.
Benefits at VF Corporation: You can review a general overview of each benefit program offered, including this year's medical plan rates on www.MyVFbenefits.com and by clicking Looking to Join VF? Detailed information on your benefits will be provided during the hiring process.
Please note, our hiring ranges are determined and built from market pay data. In determining the specific compensation for this position, we comply with all local, state, and federal laws.
At VF, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at peopleservices@vfc.com. VF will reasonably accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities to the extent required by applicable law.
Pursuant to all applicable local Fair Chance Ordinance requirements, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, VF will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.