Prototype Engineer Apparel - 12 month LTD 1

Job description

Country: United States
Job Function: Product Development

State / Province: Oregon
Position Type: Limited Duration

City / Location: Portland
Brand: adidas

Relocation: No

Somewhere, in one of our workshops right now, the future is taking shape. We are constantly working to redefine the way clothing and footwear transforms the pitch, court or course. This is what drives us: the feeling of discovery and the urge to innovate. When we create a product that makes our hearts beat faster, we know we’re onto something.

If this sounds inspiring, you might be one of us: Someone who loves to create the present, as well as shape the future. There’s a reason adidas has been at the forefront of defining sport for more than 60 years: We never stand still. Everyday, we work to improve everything we create.

At adidas, interesting, amazing and inspiring aren’t just ideas. They are what we do every single day.

Purpose & Overall Relevance for the Organisation

Supports the 2D & 3D garment creation process for innovative apparel prototypes in collaboration with Creation Center teams (Design, Marketing, Brand Operations), Sourcing and T1. Creates virtual / physical samples (prototypes) with attention to production feasibility.

Key Responsibilities

· Supports the development and grading of innovative and fit critical model patterns in cooperation with x-functional partners
· Sews proto samples and mock up’s according to input from Design, Pattern and Development teams
· Trains and consults x-functional teams on pattern creation process and sewing
· Ensures close cooperation and communication with the respective interfaces regarding all inquiries concerning sewing, workmanship, application and treatment
· Tests new garment constructions on quality, production feasibility in cooperation with the Product Testing, Quality Team and x- functional teams
· Supports direct Line Manager on creating training documents, manuals and budget plans
· Connect 3D technologies if applicable and relevant for the development process
· Mentors and coaches other team members
· Coordinates projects and workshops with Sample Studio team members


Key Relationships

· Creation Center - Design, Marketing, Brand Operations
· Innovation teams: Futures, ASL, Advanced Concepts
· Quality
· External CAD and Sample Studio associates

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

· Knowledge in pattern creation and grading with the ability to provide effective and cost efficient pattern solutions and an understanding of apparel construction, material construction and properties related to fit
· Understands and considers relationship between pattern/ material/ manufacturing
· Ability to interpret and evaluate designs on model level in regards to pattern execution/engineering
· Team player/communicator with the ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects under multiple deadlines
· Ability to work with diverse groups, motivate or mentor others and a proven skill at problem solving and innovation
· Effective written and verbal communication skills
· Fluent in English (written and spoken)
· Advanced knowledge in 3D applications ( V-Stitcher, Clo3D)
· Advanced skills in Gerber or similar 2D CAD applications
· Advanced IT skills (Illustrator, MS Office)
· Ability to travel, domestic or international, as required


Requisite Education and Experience / Minimum Qualifications

· Technical college/fashion school training in pattern making / grading, “Meisterbrief” or equivalent education
· Apprenticeship as a tailor/ dressmaker or industrial clothes manufacturer (“Gesellenausbildung”/”Meisterbrief”/Bekleidungstechniker/Bekleidungsingenieur)

OR 5 years experience in sewing
· Ideally 1-2 years related work experience in garment industry in comparable role