Principal Apparel Prototype Concept Designer - Innovation

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What will you do? 

We are seeking a Principal Innovation Prototype Concept Designer, Apparel with deep expertise in apparel innovation, concept creation, advanced prototyping, and wear‑test–ready sample construction. As a senior craft and technical leader, this role is responsible for shaping how early‑stage ideas become physical product, advancing new construction methods, and elevating the execution quality across the innovation pipeline. The ideal candidate is a master maker who thrives in ambiguity, pushes boundaries, and mentors others in the craft of building what’s never been built before. 

Let’s break down that day-in-the-life a bit more: 

Concept & Sample Creation 

• Build expert‑level prototypes across apparel categories using advanced construction methods, machinery, and materials. 
• Translate early concepts, sketches, research insights, and emerging technologies into functional 2D patterns and 3D garments. 
• Lead rapid iteration cycles to refine fit, functionality, performance, and product intent. 
• Create both low‑fidelity and high‑fidelity prototypes aligned to the stage of innovation. 

Wear Test Preparation & Support 

• Construct durable, highly functional, test‑ready samples for athlete, consumer, and exploratory wear testing. 
• Ensure accuracy and performance in fit, materials, trims, reinforcements, and construction integrity. 
• Partner with testing and research teams to integrate insights from wear tests into new iterations and build directions. 
• Anticipate testing needs and proactively design for durability, comfort, and experimental variables. 

Technical Excellence & Craft Leadership 

• Demonstrate advanced mastery in sewing, patternmaking, grading, garment engineering, and construction innovation. 
• Operate, troubleshoot, and guide others on specialized equipment (industrial sewing machines, bonding, lamination, CNC cutting, embroidery, etc.). 
• Explore, evaluate, and implement emerging materials, construction technologies, and new build processes. 
• Document prototype builds, iterations, methods, and new techniques to elevate shared knowledge. 

Innovation Leadership & Collaboration 

• Serve as a senior technical voice in innovation projects, advising on feasibility, build approaches, and conceptual exploration. 
• Partner with designers, developers, engineers, and researchers to unlock new possibilities in apparel performance or construction. 
• Identify opportunities for new methods, tools, or workflows that enhance innovation capability. 
• Mentor junior makers and guide best practices for prototype quality, problem‑solving, and craft excellence. 

What do you need to succeed? 

• We are most interested in your experience, technical capability, and ability to operate in a fast-moving innovation environment. 
• The foundation skills you will need in this position are: 
• 10+ years of experience in apparel construction, prototyping, technical design, or innovation (performance or advanced concepts preferred). 
• Expert mastery of patternmaking, garment engineering, and advanced construction techniques. 
• Strong knowledge of performance materials, functional textiles, and experimental construction technologies. 
• Proven ability to deliver high‑quality prototypes in ambiguous, fast‑paced, exploratory environments. 
• Exceptional problem‑solving, craftsmanship, and cross‑functional collaboration skills. 
• Ability to lead, mentor, and influence technical direction within an innovation ecosystem. 

Ideal Candidate Traits: 

• Experimental, hands-on, and highly curious 
• Thrives in ambiguity and loves turning early ideas into reality 
• Deeply skilled in craft but also agile, fast, and iteration-oriented 
• Confident leading technical direction while staying collaborative, open and inventive. 

Now WE have a question for YOU. 

Are you in? 

Hiring Range:

$125,280.00 USD - $156,600.00 USD annually

Incentive Potential: This position is eligible for additional compensation awards that may include an annual incentive plan, sales incentive, or commission potential. Specific details of the additional compensation eligibility for this position will be provided during the recruiting and interview process.

Benefits at VF Corporation: You can review a general overview of each benefit program offered, including this year's medical plan rates on www.MyVFbenefits.com  and by clicking Looking to Join VF? Detailed information on your benefits will be provided during the hiring process.

Please note, our hiring ranges are determined and built from market pay data. In determining the specific compensation for this position, we comply with all local, state, and federal laws.

At VF, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you require accommodations during the application process, please contact us at [email protected]. VF will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals to the extent required by applicable law.

Pursuant to all applicable local Fair Chance Ordinance requirements, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, VF will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.