Design Assistant - Womenswear (Knit & Jersey)

As a Design Assistant on Womenswear, you will support the Knit & Jersey Design Team with a range of responsibilities. In this role you will have a clear understanding of the COS aesthetics to ensure you can fulfil the visual and design goal of the brand. You will be responsible for creating technical sketches for the team and maintaining a clear view of the assortment. You will be assisting the team by conducting creative research and support in creating 3D mock ups (knit swatches, finishing trials and toiles). Attention to detail and consideration for product elevation are key design aspects we value.  

 What you will do: 

• Support to drive the assortment throughout your department, by having a clear understanding of our customer and the COS aesthetics. 
• Assist the design team with creative research for seasonal collections.
• Create 3D mock ups (knit swatches, finishing trials and toiles). 
• Technical Documentation: Create, update, and manage technical spec packs (tech packs), including detailed construction and material specifications. 
• Assist in fittings, taking notes and updating technical sketches on illustrator and make sure files are updated & communicated to relevant parties.
• Update knit & jersey overview by making sure all CADs are up to date and coloured accordingly.
• Collaborate with all functions in the design/pattern/buying department to ensure we deliver an efficient workflow.
• Help with the general running of the design department and support collection realization.

Alignment to our company values is the most important characteristic we look for in all new joiners. Our values are the behaviours that we appreciate above and beyond anything else. We are open-minded and curious, we dare to be different, we believe in constant improvement and we empower and trust you to take ownership. Our values are part of who we are, what we stand for and how we act. 

 In combination with our values we also looking for:

• A certifiable design qualification specialising in Knitwear Design 
• Previous experience in a Design Assistant position is beneficial 
• Ability to research thoroughly into the seasonal directions and suggest new ideas suitable for the COS aesthetic while demonstrating a high level of awareness of luxury design and history 
• Proficient in Adobe suite (especially Illustrator and Photoshop) 
• Good understanding of technical aspects of knitwear & jersey garment making 
• Great knowledge of knitwear stitches and ability to create innovative interpretations through knit swatching  
• Draping & toiling skills  
• Strong organisational skills and ability to work in a fast-paced environment meeting tight deadlines  
• Ability to work collaboratively in fast-paced, detail-oriented environment 
• Understanding and interest in sustainable fashion solutions, material innovation and product development   

Please kindly note that in order for us to consider your application, you will need to include a portfolio or examples of your work most suited to the COS design aesthetic. 

This is a full time permanent contract based at our Head Office in London. 

Benefits  

We offer all our employees attractive benefits with extensive development opportunities around the globe. All our employees receive a 25% staff discount usable on all our H&M Group brands in stores and online. In addition to our staff discount, all our employees are included in our H&M Incentive Program – HIP. You can read more about our H&M Incentive Program here. 

In addition to this UK based colleagues also receive  

• Up to 25 days holiday  
• Annual health checks 
• Pension scheme 
• Discounts on various activities and financial/lifestyle products via our benefits hub  
• Cycle to work scheme  
• Discounted gym membership 
• Employee assistance via retail trust   
• Private health & dental care 

Inclusion & Diversity 

At COS we’re determined to create and maintain inclusive, diverse and equitable workplaces throughout our organisation. Our teams should consist of a variety of people that share and combine their knowledge, experience and ideas. Having a diverse workforce leads to a positive impact on how we address challenges, on what we perceive possible and on how we choose to relate to our colleagues and customers all over the world. Hence all diversity dimensions are taken into consideration in our recruitment process.   

We strive to have a fair and equal process and therefore kindly ask you not to attach a cover letter in your application as they often contain information that easily can trigger unintentional biases. 

Company Description 

About COS: Since our launch in 2007 we have opened stores and sell online in over 40 countries worldwide. Our collection offers elevated essentials, iconic pieces and innovative design. The creative soul of the brand is visualised through our storytelling, seasonal runway shows and connect with contemporary culture to create an experience beyond the expected. From the beginning, our design ethos has always put lasting style, quality and sustainability first. Today 92% of the materials in our collection are more sustainably sourced.  

Ready to apply? Click on the I’M INTERESTED link where you can upload your CV and portfolio securely. Once we have received your application, we will keep you updated regularly about the status of your application so please look out for our email.  

We are looking forward to hearing from you!