Location: New York, NY (Garment District – hybrid or in-office preferred)
Type: Freelance / Project-Based
Industry: Apparel Manufacturing / Wholesale
Position Overview:
We are seeking a freelance apparel designer with experience in medical scrubs or performance uniforms to support scrub development for a leading New York–based apparel manufacturer.
This role will be responsible for leading the creative and technical development of scrub collections, translating market insights and retailer needs into commercially viable product that can move quickly through development and production.
The ideal candidate understands the balance of design, fit, function, and margin required in medical apparel and is comfortable working in a fast-paced wholesale environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead design and development of scrub collections (tops, pants, sets, and related medical apparel)
- Research market trends, competitor assortments, and retailer needs within the medical uniform space
- Create seasonal design concepts, color palettes, and fabric direction
- Develop detailed tech packs including construction, trims, and fit specifications
- Work closely with production and sourcing teams to ensure designs are commercially viable
- Review fit samples and prototypes, providing clear corrections and approvals
- Ensure designs meet performance requirements such as durability, comfort, stretch, and washability
- Collaborate with internal teams on costing targets and margin requirements
- Support development timelines from concept through production readiness
Qualifications:
- 3–7+ years apparel design experience, ideally with scrubs, uniforms, or performance apparel
- Strong understanding of medical scrub fit, construction, and functional requirements
- Experience designing for wholesale or private label retailers
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and technical flat sketching
- Ability to create clear, production-ready tech packs
- Knowledge of fabrics commonly used in scrubs (poly blends, stretch fabrics, antimicrobial finishes)
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple styles and timelines
Engagement Details:
- Freelance / project-based
- Flexible schedule with regular collaboration with NYC team
- Opportunity to help build and launch a growing scrub category
