Production / Design Assistant

About the Role

Castlewood Apparel Corp. is looking for a Production / Design Assistant to support its Men’s and Women’s Activewear team. This role partners closely with the Design Director and provides day-to-day help across the wider design function.

Production / Sample Management

• Monitor sample progress each day, keep in regular contact with overseas suppliers, and ensure follow-through on SMS, PP, and top samples.
• Accept and unpack incoming deliveries on a daily basis.
• Record every sample in the tracking system.
• Review incoming samples alongside the design team.
• Handle each sample according to buyer instructions, including completing and attaching required paperwork.
• Get outgoing sample shipments ready for FedEx collection.
• Draft and send sample dispatch emails to buyers.
• Coordinate approval-related communication with factories for lab dips, bulk fabrics, print direction, and trims, with design-team support as needed.
• Maintain both digital and hard-copy seasonal records of production approvals, and follow up with factories on any rejected submissions.
• Update the Royalty Zone platform and review it every two weeks to confirm licensor approvals.
• Work to seasonal deadlines and keep pace with the production calendar.

Design Support

• Collaborate with the Design Director on original concepts and adaptations from Men’s and Ladies’ lines for kids’ CADs and samples.
• Build and maintain tech packs for the kids’ line.
• Support Senior Designers with CAD and tech pack preparation when required.
• Provide general design and tech design assistance, such as cutting swatches and relaying approval updates to factories.

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong organization, clear communication, and a sharp eye for detail are essential.
• You should be comfortable working as part of a team, taking direction well, and staying effective under pressure.
• At least 1 to 3 years of experience in the fashion industry, ideally within design.
• Ability to juggle multiple tasks and adapt quickly when priorities shift.
• Working knowledge of MS Suite, Adobe Illustrator, and Photoshop.

Additional Information

The team describes itself as close-knit and collaborative, with a strong focus on craftsmanship, accountability, and genuine care for the product. Benefits include competitive pay, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, paid time off, and a centrally located New York City office. Remote work is available on Fridays.

Compensation

The annual salary range for this position is $60,000 to $70,000.