Product Developer / Knit Designer

About Silver Fleece

Silver Fleece, established in Adelaide, South Australia, is a fully Australian-owned knitwear manufacturer with complete vertical integration. They handle every stage of production from knitting (using flat bed and circular machines) to dyeing, cutting, sewing, and finishing. The company crafts high-quality knitwear, uniforms, and sports apparel for prominent Australian brands such as the Australian Cricket Team, Lee Matthews, R.M. Williams, and SACA.

Role Overview

The Product Developer / Knit Designer is responsible for overseeing the entire product development cycle, transforming initial concepts into mass-produced knitwear. This is a highly technical role that demands deep knowledge of knitwear engineering and manufacturing processes, beyond just creative design.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead product development from conceptualization to bulk production, including technical development, sampling, and fit adjustments.
• Create comprehensive technical packs, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and specifications that can be implemented effectively on the factory floor.
• Manage the sampling process, progressing from prototype to pre-production sample approval.
• Engage directly with clients across corporate, sports, school, and fashion sectors, advising on yarn selections, construction techniques, and product solutions.
• Source and develop yarns and fabrics, collaborating with both domestic and international suppliers regarding pricing and delivery timelines.
• Work closely with knitting, cutting, sewing, and finishing teams to proactively address production challenges.
• Prepare development costings and oversee project timelines and critical path milestones.

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum of three years' experience in apparel product development, particularly within knitwear or manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of garment construction, grading, and fit principles.
• Proven ability to develop detailed technical packs and manage the sampling cycle from start to finish.
• Expertise in yarn characteristics, knitting techniques, and manufacturing processes.
• Passion for supporting Australian manufacturing and utilizing Australian natural fibers.
• Adaptable communication skills, capable of engaging both sophisticated clients and factory operators.
• Commercially minded with focus on cost management, quality, and practical feasibility of production.

Desirable Skills

• Specific experience working in knitwear.
• Background or familiarity with Australian manufacturing practices.
• Technical garment knowledge, including patternmaking.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
• Experience using CLO 3D software.

Application Note

This role suits candidates eager to be involved in the full production journey, from yarn sourcing through to the finished garment, rather than exclusively paper-based design.