5.11 Tactical

Job Details

Description

At 5.11, we build gear with purpose, gear that holds up when it counts, whether on the job, off the grid, or pushing boundaries outdoors. As our Technical Design Manager, you’ll lead our Technical Design team and set the standards that ensure every product delivers on our promise of performance, fit, and durability.

This role combines hands-on technical design and pattern expertise with day-to-day team management. You’ll work closely with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, and QA partners to guide products from concept through commercialization, solving challenges, mentoring your team, and driving continuous improvement in how our apparel and accessories fit and perform.

What You’ll Do:

Team Leadership & Process

• Lead and coach the Technical Design team, supporting their growth and aligning work to department goals.
• Manage workflow, priorities, and timelines to deliver fit approvals and product hand-offs on schedule.
• Build and improve processes that streamline communication and maintain consistency across categories.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to address quality concerns and uphold brand standards.

Product Development & Standards

• Oversee the development of technical specs, patterns, fit blocks, and grading for assigned categories.
• Conduct fit sessions, field testing, and reviews to validate that products meet construction, fit, and function expectations.
• Tackle pattern corrections and ensure grading accuracy across size ranges.
• Identify and resolve production or quality risks early, recommending solutions that balance design intent and manufacturability.

Cross-Functional Support

• Work closely with Design, Product Development, Sourcing, QA, and vendors to guide product fit from proto to final approval.
• Support line presentations and share technical insights to keep teams aligned on fit and construction direction.
• Influence vendor practices and maintain strong relationships that support consistent quality and execution.
• Domestic and international travel as needed.

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Design, Patternmaking, Textile Science, or a related field.
• 7+ years in technical design and patternmaking, with hands-on experience from development through production.
• 3+ years in a people management or team lead role preferred.
• Strong knowledge of garment construction, grading, fit, and technical sketching.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Microsoft Office, and PLM/PDM systems.
• Experience with 2D pattern software (Optitex preferred); 3D experience a plus.
• Sample room or factory floor experience preferred.

Pay Range: $115,000-$125,000 annually plus bonus based on experience

5.11 offers a best-in-class benefits program including: medical, dental and vision insurance; a 401(k) program with employer match; employer-paid basic life and AD&D insurance. Additionally, employees can choose from several voluntary benefits including: Hospital Indemnity/Accident insurance; Flexible Spending Account/Health Saving Account; Employee Assistance Program; Paid Time Off/Paid Holidays/Sick Time; Casual Dress Code; and Employee Discounts.

• If you are a regular full-time employee working at least 30 hours per week, you and your eligible dependents may participate in 5.11’s benefits program.*

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Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

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