Associate Textile Designer Timeless American Craftsmanship

For 158 years, Faribault Mill has stood as an iconic American maker, blending timeless craftsmanship with modern innovation to create wool and cotton products that last for generations. From our mills in Minnesota and Maine, we've carried forward a tradition of quality, artistry, and storytelling that has been woven into American history. Now, we invite you to become part of this proud legacy.

As an Associate Textile Designer, you'll help transform design concepts into finished products, working closely with our product development and production teams. This role combines creativity and technical expertise, giving you the chance to influence future collections while honoring our tradition of excellence.

Core Responsibilities

• Create and maintain thorough and accurate technical specification packets (tech packs) for new products.
• Collaborate with the production team to ensure designs are efficient and production-friendly.
• Translate initial design concepts into woven fabric and accessories while preserving design integrity.
• Partner with sales and marketing on custom client project mockups.
• Manage and approve first article samples, making necessary adjustments to technical specs.
• Reference past designs to approximate shrink rates and size calculations for new patterns.
• Work with freelance jacquard software programmers to translate designs and artwork into loom-ready files.
• Conduct detailed fabric analyses and maintain the construction database and swatch file.
• Develop and maintain systems for accurate specification management in finishing departments.
• Participate in ongoing design, trend, and market research meetings.
• Support the mill's historical Product Archive and contribute to sourcing new materials as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Textile Design or related field.
• At least 3 years of product development experience in textiles or related industry.
• Strong understanding of woven fabric construction methods and design approaches.
• Keen eye for color and design (color proficiency test required).
• Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator; strong skills in MS Office Suite.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated with problem-solving capabilities in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Flexibility with hours and schedule.
• A genuine team player with a collaborative, upbeat attitude.

Why Join Faribault Mill?

• Be part of a company with 158 years of heritage and craftsmanship.
• Work in a creative environment where design, innovation, and tradition intersect.
• Contribute to products that are cherished and passed down through generations.
• Join a collaborative, passionate team that values both craft and community.

If you're excited by the idea of combining your technical expertise with creativity, and you want to be part of a brand with history, heart, and craftsmanship at its core, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help us weave the future of Faribault Mill.

Compensation and Benefits

• Starting salary: $40,000 per year
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, paid time off, and employee discounts