Apparel Designer (Mass Retail/Target Focus) Twin Cities, MN at NIGHTSEA INC – Bentonville, Arkansas

Position Summary
We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Apparel Designer to develop on-brand apparel for Target's multi-channel business. The ideal candidate will have proven experience designing for the mass-market US retail sector, a deep understanding of Target's customer, and the ability to manage the design process from concept to production. This role requires a blend of strong aesthetic vision, technical skill, and collaborative cross-functional partnership.

Location: Bentonville, Twin Cities, New York, Remote

Key Responsibilities

• Full-Cycle Design: Lead the end-to-end design process for apparel, from initial trend research and concept sketching through to final fit approval and production handoff for Target's online and in-store channels.
• Trend Integration & Market Alignment: Conduct ongoing research on international fashion trends, color (e.g., Pantone palettes), and materials. Translate findings into commercially viable designs that align with Target's mass-market positioning and core customer base (families, middle-income shoppers).
• Technical Design Collaboration: Work closely with technical designers and pattern makers to clearly communicate design intent, ensure fit consistency, and resolve construction issues to achieve high-quality production outcomes.
• Cost-Compliant Creativity: Develop innovative designs that balance aesthetic appeal with cost parameters, material feasibility, and manufacturing efficiency to meet margin goals.
• Cross-Functional Partnership: Collaborate effectively with Merchandising, Product Development, and Sourcing teams to ensure designs align with seasonal strategies, calendar milestones, and business objectives.
• Perform other related tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• 3-5+ years of professional apparel design experience, specifically within the U.S. market. Prior experience designing for Target or comparable mass-market retailers (e.g., Walmart, Gap) is highly preferred.
• A strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in creating cohesive collections, technical flats, and a clear understanding of the Target or mass-market aesthetic.
• Advanced skills in hand sketching and industry-standard design software (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop).
• Proven, hands-on experience managing the entire design-to-production pipeline, including development, fitting, and factory communication.
• Keen awareness of global fashion trends and the ability to adapt them for a mainstream retail audience. In-depth understanding of Target's customer profile and competitive landscape.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a solutions-oriented approach to cross-functional teamwork.