Senior Technical Designer - Tops & Dresses

About the role

Short Story is seeking a Senior Technical Designer to lead fit excellence for its Tops and Dresses categories, focused on petite women (5'4" and under). The role owns the technical fit process from concept through production, partnering with design, merchandising, product development, and global vendors to deliver consistent, high-quality garments.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end fit process from first sample through bulk production.
• Develop and maintain block patterns, spec libraries, and tech packs for seasonal collections.
• Conduct weekly fit sessions and analyze best- and worst-selling items to drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with design, merchandising and product development to refine style and fit for petite proportions.
• Track monthly fit metrics and support vendor management, both domestic and offshore.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years in women’s tops and dresses technical design, with at least 5 years of patternmaking experience.
• Strong understanding of petite fit, grading, and production workflows.
• Proven experience working directly with overseas and domestic factories.

Required skills

• Proficiency with 2D pattern‑making software.
• Advanced use of Google Sheets for data tracking.
• Skilled in Adobe Illustrator for technical drawings.
• Patternmaking and grading expertise.

What we offer

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Flexible PTO and paid holidays.
• Catered lunch on Fridays and company events.
• Employee discount on merchandise.