Technical Design Manager, EvoShield

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Technical Design Manager, EvoShield

Company: Wilson Sporting Goods Co.

Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Design & Development / Technical Design

Date Posted: February 09, 2026

Experience Level: 7+ Years (Mid to Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end technical design and development lifecycle for EvoShield apparel and uniform products, ensuring superior fit, function, and performance for baseball and softball athletes.

• Drive innovation in garment construction, pattern making, and prototyping to solve complex design challenges and meet athlete-specific performance needs.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with Design, Product Line Management, Merchandising, and Commercial teams to translate product briefs into manufacturable and high-quality apparel solutions.

• Establish and uphold technical fabric and manufacturing standards, ensuring consistency and quality across all product lines.

• Manage the creation and maintenance of comprehensive technical documentation (tech packs) to guide factory partners and ensure product integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for bridging the gap between creative design and manufacturable product for a performance-driven sports brand. The emphasis on technical execution, pattern management, and factory liaison points to a need for deep expertise in apparel construction and a proactive approach to problem-solving in a fast-paced GTM environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Technical Design Leadership: Oversee and execute the technical design process for all EvoShield apparel and uniform collections, ensuring alignment with brand aesthetic, performance requirements, and athlete needs.

• Fitting and Pattern Management: Conduct and lead all product fittings, providing detailed feedback to Design, Product Line Management, and factory partners. Manage pattern development, grading, and modifications with internal and external pattern makers and factories.

• Prototyping and Innovation: Develop patterns, mock-ups, and prototypes to explore and validate new design concepts, construction techniques, and material applications, fostering innovation in product performance.

• Manufacturing Liaison: Determine and document manufacturing product construction details for tech packs, working closely with factories to ensure accurate interpretation and execution of design specifications.

• Quality Assurance & Standards: Define, manage, and enforce technical fabric and manufacturing standards for all products. Analyze and comment on factory prototypes to ensure adherence to quality, construction, and fit requirements.

• Technical Documentation: Maintain clear, accurate, and up-to-date technical specifications and documentation within the tech pack system, serving as the definitive guide for production.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner effectively with Design, Product Line Management, Merchandising, and Commercial teams to ensure product briefs are met and to facilitate seamless product development from concept to production.

• Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and improve technical design processes, construction methods, and documentation standards to enhance efficiency and product quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on role requiring deep technical knowledge of apparel construction and pattern making. The emphasis on factory collaboration and managing technical documentation suggests a need for strong process orientation and communication skills, especially when dealing with international partners.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Apparel Design, Pattern Making, Technical Design, or a closely related field.

Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in product design, technical design, or product development, with a strong focus on performance apparel and/or uniforms.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in Garment Construction: Deep understanding of apparel construction techniques, materials, and their impact on fit, function, and performance.

• Pattern Making Proficiency: Proven ability to create, modify, and grade patterns, with hands-on experience. Proficiency in pattern software (e.g., Gerber, or equivalent) is essential.

• Prototyping Skills: Demonstrated experience in creating mock-ups and prototypes to test and validate design concepts and construction methods.

• Technical Documentation: Ability to create and manage detailed tech packs with precise specifications for manufacturing.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to effectively partner with Design, Product Management, Merchandising, and Commercial teams.

• Factory Communication: Proven experience communicating effectively with internal and external manufacturing partners, including navigating language barriers.

• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex construction and fit challenges.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of technical specification, pattern work, and documentation.

• Software Proficiency: Highly proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Adobe Illustrator.

Preferred Skills:

• 3D Design Software: Experience with 3D apparel design software such as V-stitcher and/or Clo.

• Sports Apparel Specialization: Specific experience in technical design for baseball, softball, or similar performance athletic wear.

• Leadership & Coaching: Demonstrated leadership, teambuilding, and coaching skills, with the ability to guide cross-functional teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on both hands-on pattern making and leadership indicates a role that requires both technical depth and the ability to guide teams and processes. Experience with 3D design software is highlighted as a plus, suggesting a forward-thinking approach to design and development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Technical Design Case Studies: Showcase 3-5 detailed case studies demonstrating your technical design process from concept to production. This should include examples of pattern development, fit sessions, construction problem-solving, and factory collaboration.

• Pattern Work Samples: Include examples of complex patterns you have created or significantly modified, illustrating your understanding of garment construction and fit.

• Tech Pack Examples: Provide samples of well-documented tech packs that clearly outline specifications, construction details, and material requirements. Highlight instances where your documentation led to successful production.

• Prototyping & Material Innovation: Present examples of prototypes you developed to solve specific construction issues or to explore new material applications, showing your innovative approach.

• Fit Analysis & Improvement: Illustrate instances where you identified and resolved fit issues, providing before-and-after examples or detailed fit comments.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate your ability to map out and optimize technical design workflows, from initial brief to final production approval.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase experience in implementing new processes or tools (e.g., pattern software, 3D design) to improve efficiency and accuracy in the technical design process.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Explain how you measure the success of your technical design work, focusing on metrics like first-time-right fit, reduced prototype revisions, and on-time delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Technical Design Manager role, a robust portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase technical skills but also the ability to manage processes, solve problems, and drive efficiency. The emphasis on "solving construction issues" and "proving new concepts" indicates a need for a portfolio that highlights innovation and practical application.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $125,000 - $140,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Pre-tax transit discounts to support commuting.

• 401(k) retirement plan with a company match to aid in long-term financial planning.

• Life insurance for added security.

• Paid maternity/paternity leave to support new parents.

• Professional development opportunities, including training and workshops.

• Company-sponsored volunteering programs to encourage community involvement.

• Team building outings designed to foster camaraderie and collaboration.

• Discounts on Wilson and Amer Sports products, offering value to employees.

• On-site health club for employee wellness and convenience.

• Summer hours, providing potential for extended weekends during warmer months.

• Company-sponsored sports leagues/teams, promoting an active lifestyle.

• Fun, active company outings centered around major sports events.

Working Hours: Standard 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility around project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for a Technical Design Manager role in a major metropolitan area like Chicago. The extensive benefits package reflects a commitment to employee well-being, professional growth, and a healthy work-life balance, aligning with the company's "live like an athlete" ethos.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Sports Equipment & Apparel Manufacturing. Wilson Sporting Goods Co. is a globally recognized leader in the sports industry, known for innovation and quality across a wide range of athletic equipment and apparel. EvoShield is a key brand within their portfolio, focusing on performance protective gear and apparel for baseball and softball.

Company Size: Wilson Sporting Goods Co. is a large, established global corporation. This scale implies robust processes, significant resources, and opportunities for impact within a well-defined organizational structure.

Founded: Wilson Sporting Goods Co. was founded in 1913, bringing over a century of experience and heritage to the sports industry. This long history signifies stability, deep-rooted expertise, and a commitment to evolving with athletic performance.

Team Structure:

• The Technical Design Manager reports to the Director of Apparel, indicating a clear reporting line within the apparel division.

• This role will work closely with Design, Product Line Management (PLM), Merchandising, and Commercial teams, highlighting a highly collaborative, cross-functional GTM approach.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Product Development: While not explicitly stated, a company of Wilson's caliber likely uses data and athlete feedback to inform product design and development decisions.

• Agile and Iterative Processes: The emphasis on fittings, prototypes, and factory collaboration suggests an iterative product development process designed for continuous improvement and rapid response to market needs.

• Quality and Performance Focus: The core methodology revolves around achieving high standards in garment construction, fit, and performance to meet the demands of serious athletes.

Company Website: Wilson Sporting Goods Co. Careers

📝 Enhancement Note: Wilson's long-standing presence in the sports industry suggests a culture that values tradition, performance, and continuous innovation. The emphasis on teamwork ("play for Team Wilson") and athlete empowerment indicates a mission-driven environment. The EvoShield brand specifically targets performance and protection, shaping the technical requirements and team focus.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid to Senior Level management position. It requires significant specialized technical expertise in apparel design and development, coupled with the ability to lead and manage complex processes and cross-functional teams. The "Manager" title indicates responsibility for guiding technical outcomes and potentially mentoring junior team members.

Reporting Structure: The Technical Design Manager reports to the Director of Apparel. This structure provides a clear hierarchy with oversight from senior leadership, allowing for strategic alignment and guidance. Collaboration will extend horizontally across Design, Product Line Management, Merchandising, and Commercial departments.

Operations Impact: The Technical Design Manager's work directly impacts product quality, performance, and manufacturability. Successful technical design ensures that products meet athlete expectations, reduce costly production errors, and contribute to the brand's reputation for quality and innovation. This role is instrumental in translating the Go-To-Market strategy into tangible, high-performing products.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to grow into a Director-level role within Technical Design or Apparel Development, managing larger teams and broader product portfolios.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of technical design, such as 3D design, advanced materials, or specialized sports performance apparel.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related roles within Product Management, Merchandising, or Operations, leveraging a strong understanding of the product lifecycle.

• Continuous Learning: Access to professional development opportunities, likely including industry conferences, workshops, and training on new technologies and methodologies in apparel design and manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within a major sporting goods company. The combination of technical mastery and management responsibilities positions candidates for leadership roles, emphasizing both specialized skill development and broader strategic impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Wilson Sporting Goods Co.'s global headquarters in Chicago, described as an "open, collaborative, high tech work environment." This suggests a modern office setting designed to foster interaction and innovation among employees.

Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois, with the headquarters located along the lakefront, offering access to a vibrant professional community.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Atmosphere: The "open, collaborative" environment is ideal for the cross-functional teamwork required in this role, facilitating easy communication with Design, PLM, and other departments.

• Technology-Rich: A "high tech" environment implies access to modern design tools, software, and potentially prototyping equipment necessary for technical design.

• Active & Engaged: Being part of a sports company, the environment is likely to be energetic, with employees who are passionate about sports and driven by performance.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is indicated, the nature of product development and GTM cycles often requires flexibility. The mention of "Summer hours" suggests a company that offers some work-life balance initiatives. The role demands continuous attention to detail and meeting deadlines, which may necessitate working beyond standard hours during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Chicago headquarters offers a dynamic urban setting with excellent amenities. The office design and company culture are geared towards facilitating the collaborative and innovative approach necessary for a Technical Design Manager role in the fast-paced sports apparel industry.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the Director of Apparel to evaluate technical expertise, leadership potential, and alignment with team goals. This may involve scenario-based questions related to technical design challenges.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where the candidate presents their portfolio, showcasing specific projects, technical skills, and problem-solving approaches. This is a critical stage for demonstrating practical application of knowledge.

• Cross-Functional Team Interview: Interviews with key stakeholders from Design, Product Management, and potentially Manufacturing to assess collaboration skills and cross-functional understanding.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader for final approval, focusing on strategic thinking and long-term contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your technical design skills, problem-solving abilities, and leadership experience relevant to performance apparel.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly articulate the challenge, your approach, the tools/techniques used (pattern making, construction methods, software), the solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., improved fit, reduced revisions, cost savings).

• Highlight Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the specifics of garment construction, fabric properties, pattern manipulation, and manufacturing processes. For example, explain why a particular seam was chosen or how a pattern was adjusted to achieve a specific fit.

• Showcase Collaboration: Include examples where you successfully collaborated with design, product management, or factories, emphasizing your communication and problem-solving skills in those interactions.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value of your work. This could include data on prototype revisions, on-time delivery rates, or improvements in product quality scores.

• Prepare for 3D Discussion: If you have 3D design experience, be ready to discuss its application in your workflow and how it benefits the technical design process.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Challenge: Be prepared for a practical exercise that might involve analyzing a garment, critiquing a prototype, or suggesting solutions to a common construction issue.

• Case Study Analysis: You may be asked to analyze a hypothetical product brief or a design problem and outline your technical design approach.

• Fit Problem Solving: Anticipate questions about how you would address specific fit issues (e.g., gaping armholes, tight shoulders, incorrect drape).

• Process Improvement Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would improve a technical design process, manage factory relationships, or implement new technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Technical Design Manager will heavily rely on demonstrating practical, hands-on expertise and the ability to apply that knowledge within a team and GTM context. The portfolio review is paramount, and candidates should treat it as a presentation of their professional capabilities and problem-solving acumen.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Pattern Making Software: Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Gerber Accumark, Lectra, or similar CAD systems is essential for pattern creation, grading, and modification.

• Adobe Illustrator: Crucial for creating technical sketches, detailing construction elements, and communicating design intent visually.

• MS Office Suite: Essential for day-to-day operations, including detailed documentation in Word, data analysis in Excel, and communication via Outlook.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tech Pack System: Experience with or ability to quickly learn and manage a dedicated tech pack system for comprehensive product documentation and version control.

• Data Analysis Tools (Excel/Google Sheets): For analyzing fit feedback, prototype revisions, and manufacturing data to identify trends and areas for improvement.

CRM & Automation:

• PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) Software: Familiarity with PLM systems is highly advantageous, as these platforms often integrate design, development, and manufacturing data.

• Communication Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar for real-time collaboration with internal teams and external partners.

Preferred Tools:

• 3D Apparel Design Software: Experience with V-stitcher and/or Clo is a significant plus, indicating a forward-thinking approach to design visualization, fit simulation, and virtual prototyping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is heavily focused on CAD/CAM for pattern making and visual communication tools. Experience with 3D design software is becoming increasingly important in the apparel industry for efficiency and accuracy, making it a valuable differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Athlete-Centricity: A core value likely focused on understanding and serving the needs of athletes to enhance their performance and experience.

• Innovation: A drive to push boundaries in design, materials, and construction to create best-in-class athletic wear.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A commitment to excellence in every product, ensuring durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: An emphasis on working together across departments to achieve common goals and support each other's success.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Partnership: The role thrives on strong collaboration with Design, Product Management, Merchandising, and Commercial teams, requiring open communication and shared understanding of goals.

• Factory Partnership: Building and maintaining strong, communicative relationships with manufacturing partners is key to successful product development and quality control.

• Data-Informed Feedback Loops: Utilizing feedback from fittings, athlete testing, and production to inform and refine design and construction processes.

• Proactive Problem Solving: A culture that encourages identifying potential issues early and working collaboratively to find effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Wilson's stated values of Passion, Creativity, Integrity, Teamwork, Ambition, and Innovation are likely embedded in the team's daily operations. For this role, teamwork and a passion for sports performance will be critical cultural elements.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Performance and Cost: Ensuring high-performance technical specifications are met while remaining within manufacturing and retail cost targets.

• Navigating Global Supply Chains: Effectively communicating and managing technical requirements with factories across different regions and cultures, potentially dealing with language barriers and varied manufacturing capabilities.

• Rapid Product Cycles: Keeping pace with evolving sports trends, athlete demands, and seasonal product launches in a competitive market.

• Integrating New Technologies: Adapting to and implementing new design and manufacturing technologies (e.g., 3D design, advanced materials) to maintain a competitive edge.

• Maintaining Fit Consistency: Ensuring consistent fit and quality across different sizes, styles, and production runs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Skills: Opportunities to specialize in areas like 3D apparel design, material science, or advanced pattern engineering.

• Leadership Training: Formal programs or on-the-job development focused on management, team leadership, and cross-functional influence.

• Industry Exposure: Attending sports apparel trade shows, material innovations summits, and manufacturing technology conferences.

• Mentorship: Access to experienced leaders within Wilson and Amer Sports for guidance on career development and industry best practices.

• Cross-Departmental Learning: Gaining insights into other areas of the business like product marketing, sales, and operations to develop a holistic understanding of the GTM process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex technical challenges at the forefront of sports apparel innovation. The challenges are directly tied to the growth opportunities, pushing individuals to evolve their skill sets and strategic thinking.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Design Philosophy: "Describe your approach to technical design for performance apparel. How do you balance aesthetics, function, and manufacturability?" (Prepare to discuss your process, key considerations, and how you prioritize these elements).

• Fit Problem Solving: "Walk me through a time you encountered a significant fit challenge with a garment. What was the issue, how did you diagnose it, and what steps did you take to resolve it?" (Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result. Be specific about pattern adjustments, construction changes, and factory communication).

• Factory Collaboration: "How do you ensure effective communication and quality control when working with overseas factories, especially when there are language barriers?" (Discuss your strategies for clear documentation, visual aids, factory visits, and building relationships).

• Innovation & Prototyping: "Describe a project where you explored or implemented a new construction technique or material. What was the goal, and what was the outcome?" (Showcase your ability to innovate and test new ideas).

• Team Leadership & Collaboration: "How do you manage the technical design process when working with a cross-functional team? How do you handle disagreements or conflicting priorities?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and driving towards a shared objective).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Brand Understanding: "What do you know about EvoShield and Wilson Sporting Goods? How do you see your role contributing to our mission of empowering athletes?" (Research the brands, their target audience, and their values).

• Work Environment: "This role is on-site in Chicago. How do you thrive in a collaborative, high-tech office environment?" (Connect your work style to the described environment).

• Values Alignment: "Wilson emphasizes teamwork, innovation, and integrity. Can you provide an example of how you've demonstrated these values in your previous roles?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps chronologically or by project type. For each project, have a clear narrative: Problem -> Your Solution -> Outcome/Impact.

• Visuals Matter: Use high-quality images of sketches, patterns, prototypes, and final products. Include side-by-side comparisons for fit improvements if possible.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use data to back up your claims (e.g., "Reduced prototype revisions by 20%," "Improved first-time-right fit rate by 15%").

• Be Concise: Respect the interviewer's time. Focus on the most relevant and impactful aspects of each project.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, especially in team projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Think Like a Technical Designer: For any scenario, consider the impact of materials, construction, and pattern on fit, function, and manufacturability.

• Process-Oriented: Be prepared to outline the steps you would take to achieve a given outcome, demonstrating your understanding of workflow and best practices.

• Solution-Focused: Always aim to provide practical, actionable solutions to any problems presented.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating deep technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate and lead. The portfolio is your primary tool to showcase your capabilities, so practice presenting it effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Technical Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Wilson Sporting Goods Co. careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your most relevant experience in technical design, pattern making, garment construction, and cross-functional collaboration, using keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a strong portfolio that showcases your best technical design projects, pattern work, tech packs, and problem-solving case studies. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail during interviews.

• Company & Brand Research: Thoroughly research Wilson Sporting Goods Co., the EvoShield brand, and their product offerings. Understand their mission, values, and target athletes to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common technical design interview questions, behavioral questions using the STAR method, and be prepared to discuss your portfolio insights. Rehearse your portfolio presentation for clarity and impact.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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