Job Description
Established in 1973, Roots is a proudly Canadian lifestyle brand that celebrates authenticity, quality, and community. Inspired by the great outdoors, we create timeless, sustainable apparel and leather goods designed for comfort and everyday adventure. At Roots, we believe in fostering a culture of inclusivity, creativity, and teamwork – where every team member plays a role in shaping our brand’s legacy. If you bring passion to everything you do, lead with integrity, and believe in the power of collaboration to drive growth, we’d love to have you on our journey!
Nature & Scope → Your Role at Roots
The Technical Product Developer – Jackets will play a key role in the development of jacket and garment products for our Roots Leather Factory. This position supports the innovation, design, development, and sourcing of this core category, working closely with the Director of Leather Product Development to manage the product development process for all jackets and garments (Leather and Varsity), from initial design handoff through to final production.
Key Responsibilities → How You’ll Make an Impact
Conduct trend research focusing on new and evolving pattern construction methods.
Draft and adjust patterns aiming to always improve fit and construction methods.
Calculate material yields and prepare costing sheets for each new or adjusted style.
Develop and maintain master specification sheets and style records; issue style numbers and track all developments.
Evaluate artwork for digitization before handing it to the digitization team- discuss adjustments and collaborate with the HQ Design Team if needed.
Oversee sample-making, tracking, testing, and approving processes for leather products, including Pre-Production samples and following-up on samples.
Assist with the raw material approval process as needed.
Keep track of the product development process and status of each style and work closely with the jacket rink during production of each sample as well as during the first bulk production.
Support sourcing of materials and ensure suitability for production efficiency and quality.
Grade all new patterns to the required sizes and cut finished paper patterns on the cutting machine.
Carry out and follow-up on special order requests as needed.
Assist with B2B jacket inquiries especially regarding pattern modifications.
Ensure to follow all timelines and due dates as listed in the seasonal product calendars posted by HQ
Assist with trouble shooting and production problems that may arise.
Assist with training on the production floor/ jacket rink if required. Work closely with the production team to asses necessary skill levels.
Label, maintain and organize samples as needed.
Qualifications & Experience → The Skills You Bring
Technical Skills and Qualifications
Proficiency in CAD, PAD patternmaking and grading software
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Adobe Illustrator
Strong understanding of pattern drafting, garment construction, fit, and production processes for jackets and outerwear
Degree or diploma in Apparel or Fashion Design
Interpersonal and Work Style Skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Highly detail-oriented with the ability to multitask and manage high volumes in a fast-paced environment
Collaborative team player
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs
On-site 5 days a week
At Roots we appreciate that skills and expertise are cultivated through a range of experiences. We are committed to reflecting Canada's diverse landscape in our products, team, and workplace culture. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet every listed requirement. Accommodations are available for applicants throughout the recruitment process.
Please note: Roots uses technology-assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to support parts of the recruitment process. These tools may be used to help review applications, assess qualifications, and support interview documentation. All hiring decisions are reviewed and made by our Talent team and key leaders involved in the recruitment process.
Nature & Scope → Your Role at Roots
The Technical Product Developer – Jackets will play a key role in the development of jacket and garment products for our Roots Leather Factory. This position supports the innovation, design, development, and sourcing of this core category, working closely with the Director of Leather Product Development to manage the product development process for all jackets and garments (Leather and Varsity), from initial design handoff through to final production.
Key Responsibilities → How You’ll Make an Impact
Conduct trend research focusing on new and evolving pattern construction methods.
Draft and adjust patterns aiming to always improve fit and construction methods.
Calculate material yields and prepare costing sheets for each new or adjusted style.
Develop and maintain master specification sheets and style records; issue style numbers and track all developments.
Evaluate artwork for digitization before handing it to the digitization team- discuss adjustments and collaborate with the HQ Design Team if needed.
Oversee sample-making, tracking, testing, and approving processes for leather products, including Pre-Production samples and following-up on samples.
Assist with the raw material approval process as needed.
Keep track of the product development process and status of each style and work closely with the jacket rink during production of each sample as well as during the first bulk production.
Support sourcing of materials and ensure suitability for production efficiency and quality.
Grade all new patterns to the required sizes and cut finished paper patterns on the cutting machine.
Carry out and follow-up on special order requests as needed.
Assist with B2B jacket inquiries especially regarding pattern modifications.
Ensure to follow all timelines and due dates as listed in the seasonal product calendars posted by HQ
Assist with trouble shooting and production problems that may arise.
Assist with training on the production floor/ jacket rink if required. Work closely with the production team to asses necessary skill levels.
Label, maintain and organize samples as needed.
Qualifications & Experience → The Skills You Bring
Technical Skills and Qualifications
Proficiency in CAD, PAD patternmaking and grading software
Working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Adobe Illustrator
Strong understanding of pattern drafting, garment construction, fit, and production processes for jackets and outerwear
Degree or diploma in Apparel or Fashion Design
Interpersonal and Work Style Skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Highly detail-oriented with the ability to multitask and manage high volumes in a fast-paced environment
Collaborative team player
Physical Requirements
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs
On-site 5 days a week
At Roots we appreciate that skills and expertise are cultivated through a range of experiences. We are committed to reflecting Canada's diverse landscape in our products, team, and workplace culture. We value your unique perspective and encourage you to apply, even if you don't meet every listed requirement. Accommodations are available for applicants throughout the recruitment process.
Please note: Roots uses technology-assisted tools, including artificial intelligence (AI), to support parts of the recruitment process. These tools may be used to help review applications, assess qualifications, and support interview documentation. All hiring decisions are reviewed and made by our Talent team and key leaders involved in the recruitment process.
💡 Quick Summary
Seeking a career-building opportunity? The Technical Product Developer, Jackets – Leather Factory position is now open for candidates interested in the Fashion Designer Jobs sector. This role in New York City offers a professional environment and growth potential.
Requirement Snapshot: Candidates should possess basic communication skills, a proactive attitude, and the ability to work in a team. Experience in Fashion Designer Jobs is a plus.
