Assistant Product Designer- Apparel

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Assistant Product Designer - Apparel

Company: The Walt Disney Company

Location: Glendale, CA, USA | Kissimmee, FL, USA

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Design / Apparel Design

Date Posted: 2026-06-10

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the Apparel Product Design team in conceptualizing, designing, and developing trend-right apparel products for Adult, Youth, and Infant categories.

• Manage design deliverables, including product mock-ups, line review decks, and maintaining product and market samples.

• Collaborate with internal and external partners to ensure the highest quality and consumer-focused product lines that meet financial targets and build brand equity.

• Assist in managing the PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) system and design development tools to ensure accurate tracking of items throughout the sample and development process.

• Conduct market research to monitor competitors, identify product innovations, and analyze seasonal trends within the apparel category.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical in translating Disney's beloved brands into tangible apparel products. The Assistant Product Designer will work closely with senior designers and cross-functional teams to ensure brand integrity, market relevance, and commercial viability of all apparel offerings. The position requires a blend of creative design skills and operational diligence in managing product development workflows.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist in the end-to-end product development process, from initial concept and design sketches to prototype creation, sample review, and final product delivery.

• Prepare and present design concepts, product mock-ups, and line review decks to internal teams and stakeholders, ensuring clear communication of design vision.

• Coordinate with manufacturing partners, vendors, and internal teams (e.g., Merchandising, Marketing) to facilitate the design and approval of all products.

• Maintain an organized system for product and market samples, ensuring accessibility for the design team and proper storage.

• Support the team by managing duplicate samples and submissions for colleagues located in different offices.

• Update and maintain product information within the PLM system, ensuring accuracy and timeliness throughout the development lifecycle.

• Conduct thorough research on seasonal trends, competitor offerings, and market dynamics to inform design decisions and identify opportunities for innovation.

• Multi-task and effectively prioritize various design projects, ensuring adherence to project timelines and adapting to evolving project requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core of this role involves operational support for the design team. Responsibilities extend beyond pure creative output to encompass meticulous sample management, data upkeep in PLM systems, and organized preparation for critical review sessions. This requires a candidate who can balance creative ideation with structured execution and a keen eye for detail in managing product lifecycles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in a related field, such as Fashion Design, Graphic Design (with product application focus), Industrial Design, Interior Design, or equivalent practical work experience.

Experience: Entry-level designer experience in Apparel Product Design.

Required Skills:

• Strong knowledge of softlines categories, including raw materials, textiles, trims, treatments, print, pattern, graphic composition, and manufacturing processes.

• Understanding of garment fit, construction, and the ability to set up production-ready files to communicate desired product execution.

• Proficient in garment sketching, graphic design, illustration, and creative application/manipulation of artwork.

• Demonstrated computer software proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, PowerPoint, and Excel.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate design perspectives clearly and positively, while being receptive to constructive feedback.

• Highly motivated problem-solver with exceptional attention to detail, capable of meeting deadlines and demonstrating ownership of tasks.

• Ability to work independently as a self-starter, anticipating and identifying team needs and proactively offering support. Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of sustainable materials in apparel.

• Understanding of Infant/Youth safety standards for apparel.

• Experience with 3D garment design programs such as CLO.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an entry-level position, the emphasis on Adobe Creative Suite, PLM system familiarity (even if just to assist), and understanding of manufacturing processes indicates a need for a candidate with foundational technical skills. The "equivalent work experience" clause suggests that practical, hands-on experience in a design environment can substitute for a traditional degree, provided the necessary skills are demonstrated.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A digital portfolio is required, showcasing a range of apparel design projects.

• Include examples of garment sketching, graphic design applications on apparel, and technical flats/spec sheets.

• Demonstrate understanding of textile properties, print/pattern application, and color palettes relevant to apparel.

• Present case studies or examples that highlight your process from concept to final execution, including any challenges overcome.

• Ensure portfolios are accessible (disable passwords or provide clear access instructions) for efficient review. Process Documentation:

• While specific process documentation is not explicitly requested for the portfolio, candidates should be prepared to discuss their design process, workflow management, and how they ensure quality and accuracy in their work.

• Be ready to describe how you would manage design feedback, incorporate revisions, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to move a product from concept to production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a digital portfolio is standard for design roles. For an Assistant Product Designer, the portfolio should emphasize foundational design skills, an understanding of apparel production, and the ability to communicate design intent clearly. The ability to articulate one's design process is crucial, demonstrating an understanding of how to translate creative ideas into manufacturable products within a structured development environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Glendale, CA: $79,400 - $106,400 per year

• Kissimmee, FL: $75,700 - $101,400 per year Benefits:

• Comprehensive health and savings benefits.

• Educational opportunities.

• Special extras and perks unique to Disney.

• Potential for a bonus and/or long-term incentive units, dependent on the level and position offered.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (Full-time).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary ranges provided are competitive for entry-level design roles in these respective high-cost-of-living areas. The inclusion of potential bonuses and long-term incentives suggests career progression opportunities within Disney. The benefits package is comprehensive, aligning with that of a large, established entertainment company. Salary will be determined by factors such as geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience, ensuring internal equity.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Entertainment, Consumer Products, Retail. Disney Consumer Products (DCP) focuses on bringing Disney's brands and franchises to life through a wide array of merchandise, including apparel.

Company Size: The Walt Disney Company is a global media and entertainment giant, employing tens of thousands of people worldwide. This indicates a structured corporate environment with established processes and ample resources.

Founded: The Walt Disney Company was founded in 1923 by Walt Disney and Roy O. Disney. Its long history signifies a deep-rooted brand legacy and a commitment to innovation and storytelling.

Team Structure:

• The Apparel Product Design team is likely part of the larger Disney Consumer Products (DCP) division.

• This Assistant Designer will report to a Manager- Product Design, indicating a clear reporting hierarchy.

• The role requires collaboration with internal teams (Merchandising, Marketing, Legal) and external partners (manufacturers, licensors). Methodology:

• Disney Consumer Products emphasizes creating "happiness for families and fans" through "captivating, inspiring, and inclusive products."

• The design process is consumer-focused, trend-right, and aims to build brand equity while meeting financial targets.

• There's a focus on innovation and delivering products across "tiers of the value pyramid," suggesting a range of product price points and quality levels.

Company Website: https://www.thewaltdisneycompany.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working at Disney means contributing to a globally recognized brand with a strong emphasis on storytelling, creativity, and consumer engagement. The company culture values innovation, quality, and a passion for creating magical experiences. For operations professionals, this translates to working within a structured, process-driven environment that prioritizes brand consistency and consumer satisfaction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level "Assistant" role, serving as a foundational position within the Product Design department. It’s designed for individuals beginning their careers in apparel design, providing exposure to the full product development lifecycle within a major corporation.

Reporting Structure: The Assistant Product Designer reports directly to the Manager- Product Design. This provides a clear line of mentorship and guidance, essential for developing design skills and understanding corporate processes.

Operations Impact: While not a traditional "operations" role, the Assistant Product Designer's work directly impacts the operational success of apparel product lines. By ensuring products are trend-right, manufacturer-ready, and aligned with brand standards, they contribute to efficient production, successful market launches, and ultimately, revenue generation for Disney Consumer Products. Their attention to detail in managing samples and PLM data also supports smoother supply chain and production workflows.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to hone core apparel design skills, including sketching, graphic applications, and technical design, under experienced mentorship.

• Industry Exposure: Gain in-depth knowledge of the apparel product development process within a large, dynamic consumer products organization, including understanding market trends, material sourcing, and manufacturing.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance to Product Designer, Senior Product Designer, or specialize in specific apparel categories or brands within Disney.

• Cross-Functional Learning: Work closely with merchandising, marketing, and production teams, broadening understanding of the full business value chain.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-minded individual, this role offers a unique perspective on how creative output is managed through structured processes and systems. The emphasis on PLM, sample management, and collaboration with cross-functional teams provides a valuable bridge between creative ideation and commercial execution, offering a strong foundation for future roles in product management or even specialized operations within the creative industries.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "On-site" or "TELECOMMUTE" with specific locations, implying a traditional office-based work environment where collaboration and access to physical resources are prioritized. Given the nature of apparel design, this likely includes design studios, sample rooms, and collaborative workspaces.

Office Location(s):

• Glendale, CA: The primary location, likely housing a significant portion of the Disney Consumer Products operations.

• Kissimmee, FL: An alternate location, suggesting a distributed team structure for broader reach or specific project needs. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect to work in a studio setting where sharing ideas, receiving feedback, and brainstorming with fellow designers and managers is common.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite), potentially 3D design tools (CLO), and essential office productivity tools (PowerPoint, Excel). PLM system access will be crucial for data management.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with the Product Design team, including managers, as well as cross-functional teams like Merchandising, Marketing, and potentially external vendors.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, there may be flexibility in daily hours depending on team needs and project deadlines, though core hours for collaboration will be expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the collaborative and hands-on nature of apparel design. Access to physical samples, studio spaces, and direct interaction with team members are vital for this role. For operations professionals, understanding this collaborative, in-person dynamic is key to appreciating how design decisions are made and executed within a large organization.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely review applications and portfolios for basic qualifications and creative fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A conversation with the Manager- Product Design to assess design skills, understanding of apparel development, and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where the candidate presents their portfolio, discussing their design process, project rationale, and problem-solving abilities. This is a critical stage for assessing practical skills and communication.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interviews: Potentially meet with other designers or members of related teams (e.g., Merchandising) to evaluate collaboration skills and broader understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership for a final assessment of potential and alignment with Disney's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects. Quality over quantity.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the brief/objective, your creative process, design choices, challenges faced, and the final outcome.

• Highlight Process: Demonstrate your understanding of apparel development, including sketching, graphic application, material considerations, and how you translate concepts into manufacturable designs.

• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your technical skills (Adobe Suite, sketching) are evident. If you have CLO experience, showcase it.

• Brand Awareness: If possible, include projects that demonstrate an understanding of brand aesthetics, especially if they relate to entertainment or consumer products.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a design exercise or a more in-depth discussion of a past project that tests your ability to:

  • Interpret a design brief.
  • Adapt to specific brand guidelines.
  • Solve a design problem creatively and practically.
  • Articulate your thought process clearly.

• Understand the typical lifecycle of an apparel product from concept to retail, including key checkpoints and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount. Candidates should treat it as a presentation of their design capabilities and operational understanding of the product development process. Demonstrating an ability to think critically, solve problems, and communicate effectively about their work will be key differentiators.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Illustrator: Essential for creating vector graphics, technical flats, and detailed artwork for apparel.

• Adobe Photoshop: Used for mock-ups, photo manipulation, texture application, and graphic design for apparel prints.

• Microsoft PowerPoint: Crucial for creating design presentations, line reviews, and communicating concepts to stakeholders.

• Microsoft Excel: Used for tracking product details, managing data, and potentially assisting with line planning or trend research documentation.

• CLO 3D (Preferred): A 3D garment design software that allows for virtual prototyping, fit visualization, and realistic rendering of apparel designs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for design, understanding how trends are identified and competitor analysis is performed may involve data review. CRM & Automation:

• PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) System: Critical for managing product data, tracking samples, design revisions, and the overall development process. Proficiency or willingness to learn is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily design-focused. For candidates with an operations background, the key systems to highlight are PLM and Excel, as they relate to process management and data handling. Demonstrating an ability to learn and effectively utilize these tools will be crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A core Disney value, encouraging imaginative solutions and fresh ideas to bring brands to life.

• Quality & Excellence: Commitment to delivering high-quality products that meet brand standards and consumer expectations.

• Consumer Focus: Designing products with the end consumer (families, fans) at the heart of every decision.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across teams and with external partners to achieve shared goals.

• Brand Integrity: Upholding and enhancing the magic and storytelling of Disney brands through product design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect close collaboration with Merchandising, Marketing, Brand Management, and Legal teams to ensure designs are commercially viable, brand-aligned, and legally compliant.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to refine designs and processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of trends, market insights, and design techniques within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Disney's culture is built on creativity, storytelling, and a commitment to excellence. For an operations-minded individual, understanding how these values translate into structured processes, quality control, and consumer-centric product development is key. The emphasis on collaboration means being adept at working with diverse teams and communicating effectively.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Commercial Viability: Designing products that are both innovative and align with cost, manufacturing, and market demands.

• Brand Consistency: Ensuring all designs accurately represent and enhance the integrity of various Disney franchises.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Keeping up with rapidly evolving fashion trends and the demands of a global consumer products market.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Effectively prioritizing and managing diverse design tasks under tight deadlines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Formal Training: Access to Disney's internal learning and development programs, which may include courses on design, trend forecasting, and business acumen.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Product Designers and Managers, gaining insights into career progression and industry best practices.

• Industry Exposure: Staying abreast of global fashion trends, textile innovations, and emerging design technologies through internal resources and potentially external conferences.

• Brand Immersion: Deep dive into the rich history and diverse stories of Disney's brands, which can inspire and inform design work.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a dynamic environment where creative passion meets operational rigor. The challenges are typical of a fast-paced consumer goods industry, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. The growth opportunities are significant, offering a direct path to mastering apparel product development within one of the world's most iconic brands.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your design process from initial concept to a finalized design ready for production." (Focus on workflow, decision points, and collaboration.)

• "How do you stay updated on apparel trends, and how would you apply them to a specific Disney franchise?" (Demonstrate research skills and brand understanding.)

• "Walk us through a project in your portfolio that you are particularly proud of. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight problem-solving, creativity, and execution.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism on your designs?" (Showcase adaptability and a willingness to learn.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What does the Disney brand mean to you, and how would you translate that into apparel design?" (Assess brand affinity and creative interpretation.)

• "How do you approach working within a team, especially with individuals from different departments like Merchandising or Marketing?" (Evaluate collaboration and communication skills.)

• "What are your thoughts on sustainable design practices in apparel?" (Gauge awareness of current industry initiatives.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically. Start with an overview of your background, then dive into 2-3 key projects.

• Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, your design solutions, and the outcome. Use visuals effectively.

• Technical Detail: Be ready to discuss the materials, construction techniques, and graphic applications you considered.

• Brand Relevance: If you have projects that align with Disney's aesthetic or target audience, highlight them.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice your presentation to ensure it's impactful and within the allotted timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative talent, technical proficiency, an understanding of the product development process, and an appreciation for the Disney brand. Being able to articulate one's thought process and collaborative approach will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Assistant Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your digital portfolio to highlight apparel design projects that showcase your garment sketching, graphic application skills, and understanding of textiles and construction. If possible, include examples that demonstrate brand awareness or a consumer-centric approach.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to emphasize relevant design skills, software proficiency (Adobe Suite, CLO if applicable), and any experience in apparel product development, even if from internships or academic projects. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, presenting your portfolio effectively, and answering behavioral questions related to collaboration, problem-solving, and adapting to feedback. Research Disney Consumer Products and current apparel trends.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Disney's brands, its consumer products division, and its commitment to quality and innovation. Understand the company's values and how they relate to design and product development.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, particularly regarding specific processes or expectations, should be verified directly with The Walt Disney Company's recruitment team during the application and interview process.