Apparel Design and Operations Manager

Satin Stitches (est.1978)is a small Minneapolis based apparel manufacturer specializing in custom costuming for dance and cheer teams, show choirs, and other performance groups nationwide.

The Apparel Design & Operations Manager serves as the owner's right hand, leading apparel and graphic design initiatives while overseeing custom client management, production coordination, and day-to-day studio operations. Our ideal candidate is comfortable wearing many hats and stepping into studio production whenever needed. Success in this role requires creativity, initiative, flexibility, and a collaborative mindset.

Key Responsibilities

Apparel Sketches:

Create custom client sketches or design new online styles using Adobe Illustrator.

Graphic Design:

Create graphics (artwork, logos, repeating prints) and prep files for sublimation printing using Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop. Process image files from photoshoots.

Custom Client Management:

Serve as the account manager for custom team orders by overseeing the order process from initial inquiry through production. Ensure design sketches are completed on schedule, assist the owner with preparing accurate price quotes, provide timely status updates to clients, and monitor each order to ensure it remains on track for production.

Production Scheduling & Studio Workflow:

Work with the owner to maintain a consistent stream of orders for production. Coordinate pattermaking, prototyping, cutting, handwork and sewing to ensure deadlines are met. Prep work for production assistants.

Sourcing & Inventory:

Order fabrics, trims, rhinestones & notions as needed. Track material costs and shipping costs over time.

Costing & Profit Margins:

Calculate cost-of-goods-sold (COGS) for web styles and custom team orders to ensure profitable pricing structures.

Marketing and Sales Strategizing:

Collaborate with the owner and Digital Marketing Manager to develop and execute a strategic marketing calendar that drives sales, increases customer engagement, and fills production gaps during slower periods.

Production Assistant Tasks:

Assist with cutting, hand work, rhinestoning, inspecting, shipping and other tasks as-needed.

Required Qualifications

Experience:

2+ years in apparel design or product development

Technical Knowledge:

Strong foundational knowledge of patternmaking, garment construction, sewing techniques, and efficient production methods.

Software Skills:

Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Proficiency with spreadsheet tools (Excel, Google Sheets) for tracking inventory and pricing products.

Adaptability:

A self-starter with a flexible approach, able to take on diverse responsibilities and contribute wherever needed in an entrepreneurial studio environment. Ability to work quickly and efficiently.

Design Sensibility:

A keen eye for color, proportion, embellishment, and detail, with an appreciation for creating high-quality dance costumes that are both visually impactful and functional for performance.

Bonus Qualifications

Dance Background:

Dance costuming experience and/or dance industry knowledge

Website Management:

To add new products, blogs, and make updates as needed. Satin Stitches uses Wordpress.

Starting at $22.00/hr

Approximately 24 hours/week, with strong potential to work up to full time

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