Senior Apparel Grading Expert
Nike - Portland, OR
As our Sr. Grading Specialist – Apparel, you’ll utilize comprehensive technical knowledge to provide direction to all complex product groups related to product grading, sizing and patterns. You’ll be relied on to develop, implement and maintain Nike sizing standards and coordinate with all regions to ensure global comprehension and utilization, perform market analyses to determine competitors’ sizing methods compared to Nike’s current standards, and collaborate with development teams to ensure best sizing methods, in addition to managing the Nike Global Grade Book and providing technical expertise to the development and implementation of sizing changes as they occur. You’ll analyze, recommend solutions to, make decisions on and implement change to solve problems relating to garment grading. You’ll also lead sizing discussions and initiatives across departments, and utilize internal and external partnerships that leverage resources and enhance the business group. You’ll translate the base size design concept into all other defined sizes, incorporating proportional lines, fit requirements and construction feasibility. You’ll create and revise all defined sizes, by preparing and grading styles, using a CAD/CAM computer system for all needs, including production, artwork, contracted athletic apparel and promotions. You’ll also work to optimize grading productivity and apply a comprehensive knowledge of pattern, sizing and fit to refine the product. You’ll provide technical expertise related to grading; mentor others to build their knowledge, skills and contribution; and provide training and learning opportunities for staff. In addition, you’ll develop and execute classes to teach technical knowledge, and manage/execute special projects.
Requirements for the position include:
- Bachelor's degree in Apparel Design, Textile Sciences or a related field
- 5 years’ grading experience in the apparel industry
- Grading experience, including the ability to utilize pattern CAD software
- Ability to generate accurate graded size ranges on the most difficult, complex product
- Comprehensive knowledge of grading procedures, body growth, anthropometrical studies and technology
- Ability to identify shapes for functional fit in extended sizes that meet the needs of the end user
- Working knowledge of PCs and PC applications (MS Excel and Word) in a Windows environment
- Ability to act as a technical resource and mentor others
- Ability to make grading decisions, with the knowledge that a change in the configuration of a pattern can impact fabric utilization information and the width of production fabric, decreasing the cost of materials, thus maximizing profitability
- Advanced knowledge of the apparel development process, from inception through production, including, but not limited to, pattern making, construction, costing, manufacturing, embroidery, materials and machinery used in apparel
- Strong project management skills
- Ability to write and edit graded measurements on product specifications
- Understanding of the product creation process
- Ability to interpret grade to maintain design integrity throughout a size range and offer alternative solutions
- Grading experience in athletic apparel is preferred
Posted: 30+ days ago
About Nike
NIKE, Inc. fosters a culture of invention. We create products, services and experiences for today’s athlete while solving problems for the next generation.... more
