Job post summary:
The Designer – Heated Apparel Specialist will be responsible for the development, fit, and execution of all technical aspects related to battery-powered heated products. This role bridges apparel engineering, wearable technology, and performance materials. The ideal candidate combines strong apparel technical design experience with working knowledge of electrically heated components, battery integration, and safety standards for consumer wearable electronics.
Fluency in Mandarin is required to effectively collaborate with overseas suppliers and factories in China.
Key Responsibilities:
- Own the full technical design process for heated apparel (jackets, vests, socks, gloves, etc.) from concept through production.
- Create and maintain accurate tech packs, BOMs, and construction details for both apparel and integrated heating elements.
- Partner with factories and component suppliers to develop and test heating systems, battery housings, wiring channels, and controllers.
- Communicate daily with Mandarin-speaking factories to review samples, resolve construction issues, and track development timelines.
- Collaborate with Design and Production to ensure heating technology aligns with 32 Degrees’ comfort, safety, and cost standards.
- Manage fittings, prototype evaluations, and product testing, including heat distribution, durability, and wash performance.
- Work with QA and compliance teams to ensure all products meet applicable UL, FCC, CE, and ASTM safety requirements.
- Support sourcing and engineering discussions related to batteries, wiring harnesses, connectors, and control modules.
- Research emerging heated technologies, fabric integrations, and rechargeable systems for future innovation.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Textile Engineering, Product Development, or related field.
- 7+ years of technical design experience in outerwear, performance, or wearable technology.
- Direct experience developing battery-powered heated apparel or other heated consumer products (blankets, pads, gloves, etc.) required.
- Strong knowledge of patternmaking, fit, construction, and materials for insulated and technical garments.
- Understanding of battery safety, low-voltage electronics integration, and washability of electronic textiles.
- Fluency in Mandarin (spoken and written) required; English fluency also required.
- Skilled in Adobe Illustrator and Excel
- Excellent communication skills and experience collaborating with overseas factories and suppliers.
- Highly detail-oriented, analytical, and proactive in problem solving.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person