Location:: IN HOUSE ONLY - Missoula, Montana
Company: Montana Knife Company
About Us:
Montana Knife Company is a premium brand dedicated to delivering high-quality products with precision craftsmanship. As we expand our offerings into apparel, we seek a talented and experienced Director of Apparel Design and Manufacturing to spearhead this initiative. Our focus is on the outdoor and hunting space, creating performance-driven apparel that meets the needs of enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Position Overview:
The Director of Apparel Design and Manufacturing will lead the creation of our performance outerwear and apparel line from concept to production. This role requires a visionary with deep industry expertise to spot upcoming trends, craft innovative designs, and manage efficient manufacturing processes tailored to the outdoor and hunting market.
Key Responsibilities:
- Trend Analysis: Research and identify upcoming trends in the outdoor and hunting space, including materials, consumer preferences, and performance innovations.
- Creative Development: Develop mood boards and visual concepts to communicate the design vision.
- Design Execution: Create detailed apparel mockups and technical packs for prototyping and production.
- Performance Focus: Design and develop functional, durable, and high-performance outerwear and apparel that aligns with the demands of outdoor and hunting activities.
- Collaboration: Partner with pattern makers, factories, and vendors to ensure designs are executed to brand standards.
- Production Oversight: Manage manufacturing timelines, quality control, and production budgets to meet company goals.
- Brand Alignment: Ensure all designs align with Montana Knife Company’s brand identity and values.
- Team Leadership: Mentor junior designers and support cross-functional teams as needed.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, Apparel Design, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).
- A minimum of 5 years of experience in apparel design and manufacturing, with a focus on performance outerwear.
- Strong proficiency in apparel design software (e.g., Adobe Illustrator, Clo3D) and rendering tools.
- Demonstrated expertise in creating technical packs and working with pattern makers and factories.
- In-depth knowledge of fabric sourcing, garment construction, and performance-driven apparel production processes.
- Experience in the outdoor, hunting, or lifestyle apparel industry is highly preferred.
- Excellent project management and organizational skills.
What We Offer:
- Compensation: Competitive salary (DOE – Dependent on Experience).
- Benefits:
- Paid Vacation
- 401k Matching Program
- Partial health insurance coverage
Submit your portfolio, resume, cover letter explaining why you are the ideal candidate for the Director of Apparel Design and Manufacturing position to careers@montanaknifecompany.com
Please include “Director of Apparel Design and Manufacturing” in the subject line.
