The North Face: Senior Technical Developer

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.

Position: Sr. Technical Developer, Apparel

What you will do

As a Senior Developer on our Technical Development team you will manage and lead high level technical development of assigned styles from design concept through to production ready hand-off.  You will partner with design to articulate the fit intent and overall aesthetic into 3D and physical proto samples and will ensure the fit and construction/BOM meets or exceeds expectations of quality and cost.  You will own the specifications for the products, publish and maintain all the records, style files, Bill of Materials, and samples associated with the product and related programs. You will provide expert level guidance and knowledge to the cross functional team on construction and fit.  You will foster a collaborative and collegial environment by supporting/mentoring mid-level and associate TD's in their roles and working across the TD department on product and projects alignment.

Let’s break down that day-in-the-life a bit more.

• Plans and tracks the development schedule of prototypes
• Work with the Fit Team to ensure all products within assigned category are aligned to TNF fit standards and guidelines
• Consistent execution of fit intent and fit consistency with support from Fit Team through clear analysis, pattern corrections, visual adjustments, communication and use of block patterns.
• Develops products, recommends constructions, advises on proper fit for style that meet design and Product Management expectations. Provide solutions related to cost engineering and adhering to the target margins with support from costing
• Schedule and lead fit sessions while also supporting the Associate and Mid TD's when needed
• Identify and assist in the development of department guidelines and standards to ensure operational excellence and consistency across teams.  Proposes new ways to maximize efficiencies.
• Starts and leads special projects, process or calendar optimization with minimal supervision
• Works to approve assigned styles from SMS to Bulk production and releases specs for Fit and BOM/Construction.  Seasonal travel overseas to manufacturers may be required
• Mentor and Coach Associate and Mid technical developer and manage all Workday function.
• Train and work in V-stitcher 3D software to create P0's, concept patterns, P1's, etc and/or leverage vendor created 3D assets for development to shorten prototype approvals and iterations.

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 6+ years of experience in Technical Design.

The foundation skills you will need in this position are:

• Fluent in English, any other language is a plus
• Strong product acumen with working knowledge of apparel product development processes/tools/systems, including development, sourcing and manufacturing
• Excellent collaboration skills and an ability to manage multiple timelines and deadlines
• Proactive approach to identifying the root cause of issues, seeking the best solutions with a values driven commitment to do what is right
• High degree of agility and adaptability
• An ability to work under pressure and to navigate change with open mindedness and flexibility
• Growth mindset and enthusiasm for learning new tools and problem-solving
• 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