Product Designer, Cat & Jack Kids – Girls Knit Apparel

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer, Cat & Jack Kids – Girls Knit Apparel

Company: Target

Location: 1000 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55403-2542, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Product Design / Apparel Design

Date Posted: May 08, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the design and development of innovative knit apparel for the Cat & Jack kids' brand, focusing on girls' categories.

• Translate market trends, consumer insights, and brand strategies into cohesive and commercially viable product collections.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including merchandising, sourcing, and technical design to ensure product alignment with business objectives and creative vision.

• Own the end-to-end design process, from initial concept and research to final product realization, ensuring quality, fit, and aesthetic standards are met.

• Leverage design software and technical knowledge to create compelling presentations and communicate design intent effectively to internal and external partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for the Cat & Jack brand within Target, focusing on girls' knit apparel. The emphasis is on translating trends and market research into tangible product designs that align with Target's owned brand strategy, price points, and quality standards. The "Hybrid/Flex for Your Day" work arrangement indicates a need for both onsite presence and remote flexibility, with an expectation of 3 days per week in the Minneapolis office.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and design knit apparel collections for girls' categories within the Cat & Jack brand, aligning with overarching design and merchant strategies.

• Conduct thorough market, trend, and consumer research to identify emerging opportunities and inform design direction.

• Develop comprehensive design presentations, including inspirational research, illustrations, and mood boards, to effectively communicate design intent and product stories.

• Translate design concepts into detailed product direction, specifying materials, washes, trims, artwork, garment construction, and fit requirements.

• Partner with technical designers and sourcing teams to troubleshoot product issues, ensure manufacturability, and maintain design integrity throughout the development cycle.

• Collaborate with merchandising and sourcing counterparts to ensure product designs meet merchant line plans, assortment strategies, price points, and overall creative direction.

• Drive brand cohesion and continuity by partnering with peers across the Cat & Jack brand to ensure a unified aesthetic and product offering.

• Prepare and present design concepts and product assortments to cross-functional teams and leadership for review and approval.

• Stay abreast of industry innovations in textiles, garment construction, and design techniques to continuously enhance product offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a strong need for market and trend research, translating these into actionable design concepts, and then meticulously detailing those concepts for development. The emphasis on collaboration with merchandising and sourcing is critical for success in a retail product development environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in computer design systems, including Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe Photoshop.

• Experience with CAD illustration or other 2D/3D design software.

• Strong knowledge of textiles, garment construction, fit, raw materials, and product production processes.

• Demonstrated ability to assimilate product feedback and iterate on designs effectively.

• Proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision, managing workload and calendar with a self-directed approach.

• Experience in building strong relationships to foster successful collaboration within a team environment.

• Ability to respond to business objectives with creative, innovative, and cost-effective design solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience specifically with knit apparel design.

• Familiarity with the Cat & Jack brand and its target demographic.

• Understanding of cut & sew knits design language and translation into product direction.

• Experience in conducting consumer and market research.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific software proficiency (Adobe Suite, CAD) and technical knowledge (textiles, garment construction) is paramount. The emphasis on independent work, relationship building, and translating business needs into creative solutions are key indicators of the desired candidate profile for a mid-level designer in a large corporate setting.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of knit apparel designs, with a specific focus on girls' categories.

• Demonstrations of end-to-end product development process, from initial concept and trend research to final garment execution.

• Examples of how user feedback or market analysis influenced design decisions and product iterations.

• Visual evidence of design solutions that balanced creative vision with commercial viability (e.g., price points, manufacturability).

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow management and calendar adherence in previous design projects.

• Documentation of how design concepts were presented and communicated to stakeholders, including visual aids and narrative explanations.

• Evidence of collaboration with merchandising, sourcing, and technical design partners.

• Demonstrations of how market and trend research was integrated into the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Product Designer role, the portfolio is critical. It needs to go beyond just aesthetics and demonstrate a structured approach to design, problem-solving, and collaboration within a retail product development framework. Emphasis should be placed on the process and how design decisions were made and executed.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $73,000.00 - $132,000.00 USD per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health benefits and programs for eligible team members and their dependents, including:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Life Insurance

• Retirement savings plan: 401(k)

• Employee discount on Target merchandise.

• Income protection:

  • Short Term Disability
  • Long Term Disability

• Paid Time Off:

  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Paid National Holidays

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, estimated at 40 hours per week.

• Hybrid work arrangement requiring 3 days per week in the Minneapolis office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is typical for a mid-level Product Designer in a major metropolitan area like Minneapolis, considering the reputation and compensation practices of a large retailer like Target. The benefits package is robust, reflecting Target's investment in its team members.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Apparel & Accessories)

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees)

Founded: 1902, Target Corporation is a multinational retailer with a significant presence in the US market, known for its owned brands and focus on guest experience.

Team Structure:

• The Design team operates within the broader Product Development and Merchandising functions at Target.

• This role supports the Cat & Jack brand, a key owned brand known for its quality and value in children's apparel.

• The designer will work closely with dedicated merchant partners, sourcing teams, and technical designers specific to the girls' knit apparel category.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, leveraging market research, sales performance, and consumer insights to inform design and development.

• Agile and collaborative approach to product development, emphasizing cross-functional partnership and iterative feedback loops.

• Focus on brand consistency and storytelling to create cohesive product assortments that resonate with the target customer.

• Emphasis on efficiency and cost-effectiveness without compromising design quality or brand integrity.

Company Website: https://corporate.target.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Target's culture emphasizes a strong focus on guest experience, innovation within owned brands, and a collaborative, data-informed approach to product development. The Cat & Jack brand specifically aims to provide stylish, durable, and affordable apparel for children.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Product Designer. This role is responsible for executing design strategies and contributing to product innovation within a specific category. It requires a solid foundation of design skills and product development knowledge, coupled with the ability to work with increasing autonomy.

Reporting Structure:

• The Product Designer will report to Design Leadership, likely a Senior Designer or Design Manager overseeing the Cat & Jack apparel categories.

Operations Impact:

• Directly influences the product assortment, aesthetic, and perceived value of the Cat & Jack girls' knit apparel line.

• Contributes to driving guest engagement, sales performance, and brand loyalty through compelling and well-executed designs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in knit apparel design, children's wear, or specific design techniques.

• Advancement: Progress to Senior Product Designer, Design Manager, or roles in broader product development or merchandising leadership.

• Cross-Functional Experience: Opportunities to gain exposure to other apparel categories or product development functions within Target.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in design trends, software, textile innovation, and retail strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within a large, established retail organization. The focus on owned brands means designers can have a tangible impact on products seen by millions of consumers, fostering a sense of accomplishment and driving career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Corporate Headquarters. The role is based at Target's corporate headquarters in Minneapolis, a modern urban campus designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• A hybrid/flex work arrangement requires team members to work both onsite at the Minneapolis HQ and virtually.

• Expect a collaborative office environment with shared workspaces, design studios, and meeting rooms.

• Access to design resources, technology, and tools necessary for product design and development.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, with an expectation of approximately 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid model requires 3 days per week onsite at the Minneapolis HQ. The specific days may vary based on team needs and project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role emphasizes the need for adaptability and effective communication skills, both in-person and remotely. The Minneapolis HQ environment is designed to support creative work and cross-functional interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with the role requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation: A key stage will involve presenting your portfolio to a panel, showcasing your design process, trend interpretation, and product development capabilities for knit apparel. Be prepared to discuss specific projects, your role, and the outcomes.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potential exercises or discussions focusing on your proficiency with design software (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) and your understanding of garment construction, textiles, and fit.

• Behavioral Interviews: Questions assessing your ability to collaborate, problem-solve, manage time, respond to feedback, and align with Target's culture and values.

• Cross-Functional Panel: Interviews with potential peers and stakeholders from merchandising, sourcing, and technical design to evaluate collaboration skills and business acumen.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your knit apparel design skills, particularly for children's wear. Highlight projects that demonstrate trend translation, problem-solving, and commercial viability.

• Showcase Process: For each project, clearly articulate your design process: research, concept development, material selection, fit considerations, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. Use visual aids effectively.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you can, include metrics or outcomes related to your designs, such as sales performance, cost savings, or positive customer feedback.

• Tailor to Target: Research the Cat & Jack brand and Target's overall design aesthetic. Be ready to explain how your style and approach align with the brand's identity and target audience.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Be prepared to demonstrate your proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and any other relevant design software.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: You may be given a design brief and asked to develop concepts or a mini-collection within a set timeframe. Focus on demonstrating your ability to interpret a brief, research trends, and present clear design direction.

• Trend Analysis Exercise: Be prepared to discuss current or upcoming trends in children's knitwear and how you would translate them into marketable products for Cat & Jack.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle design challenges, conflicting feedback, or production issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a design role at a major retailer like Target will heavily rely on the portfolio. Candidates should prepare to articulate their design thinking, process, and ability to meet business objectives through their work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Adobe Illustrator: Essential for creating vector graphics, technical flats, and detailed artwork.
  • Adobe Photoshop: Crucial for mood boards, color palettes, texture application, and presentation visuals.
  • Adobe InDesign: Used for creating professional presentations, lookbooks, and detailed design briefs.

• CAD Software: Proficiency in CAD illustration or other 2D/3D software for garment design and visualization.

• Digital Sketching Tools: Tablets and stylus for efficient sketching and concept development.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the design function, but an understanding of how design inputs feed into broader systems like PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) or ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) may be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Strong proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable for this role. The ability to translate design concepts into detailed technical specifications using these tools is a core requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Guest Obsession: A deep understanding of the target customer (children and parents for Cat & Jack) and a commitment to delivering products that meet their needs and expectations.

• Inclusivity: A commitment to creating apparel that is inclusive and representative, reflecting the diversity of Target's guests.

• Innovation: A drive to bring fresh ideas and creative solutions to product design, staying ahead of trends and offering unique value.

• Efficiency: A focus on optimizing the design and development process to ensure timely delivery and cost-effectiveness, without compromising quality.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working effectively within a team and across departments to achieve common goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers work closely with merchants, sourcing, technical designers, and marketing to ensure cohesive product development and brand messaging.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to constructive criticism and a willingness to iterate on designs based on feedback from various stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment where designers share insights on trends, techniques, and best practices to elevate the collective design output.

📝 Enhancement Note: Target's culture is built around its "Team Member" values, emphasizing guest-centricity, diversity, and teamwork. For a designer, this translates to understanding the target consumer deeply and collaborating effectively to bring products to life that resonate with them.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Trend with Brand Identity: Staying current with fast-moving fashion trends while ensuring designs remain true to the Cat & Jack brand's established aesthetic and target demographic.

• Meeting Cost and Production Constraints: Designing innovative and appealing products that can be manufactured within strict cost targets and production timelines.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Navigating diverse perspectives and priorities from merchandising, sourcing, and technical teams to achieve consensus on design direction.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Effectively prioritizing and managing a diverse workload of design projects for different product types and seasons.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Trend Forecasting & Market Analysis: Access to industry resources and internal analytics to deepen understanding of market trends and consumer behavior.

• Textile and Construction Expertise: Opportunities to learn about new materials, sustainable practices, and advanced garment construction techniques.

• Brand Strategy & Merchandising: Gaining insights into retail strategy, line planning, and assortment development from experienced merchant partners.

• Software and Technology: Continuous learning and adoption of new design software and digital tools for enhanced creativity and efficiency.

• Leadership Development: Potential to mentor junior designers or take on leadership roles within design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The retail environment is dynamic, presenting challenges in balancing creativity with commercial realities. However, Target provides ample opportunities for professional development, enabling designers to grow their skills and advance their careers within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for translating a trend report into a cohesive knit apparel collection for children." (Focus on research, concept, execution, and cross-functional input.)

• "How do you ensure your designs meet both aesthetic goals and commercial requirements (price point, manufacturability)?" (Highlight your understanding of the retail product development lifecycle.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What appeals to you about the Cat & Jack brand and Target's approach to owned brands?" (Show you've researched the brand and understand its market position.)

• "How do you approach receiving and incorporating constructive feedback on your designs?" (Demonstrate openness to iteration and collaboration.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your presentation to tell a compelling story for each project, from the initial brief or inspiration to the final outcome.

• Visuals are Key: Use high-quality images, sketches, flats, and any relevant mock-ups. Ensure your Adobe Suite proficiency is evident in the clarity and professionalism of your visuals.

• Focus on Process: Clearly explain why you made certain design decisions. Discuss your research, inspiration, and how you translated those into tangible product features.

• Highlight Collaboration: Mention how you worked with other teams (merchandising, technical design, sourcing) and any challenges or successes in those interactions.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Prepare concise explanations for each project, focusing on the most impactful aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely test not only your design skills but also your understanding of the retail business, your ability to collaborate, and your fit with Target's culture and the specific brand.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Target's career portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to specifically highlight your experience with knit apparel, children's wear, and the use of relevant design software (Adobe Suite, CAD). Showcase projects that demonstrate your ability to translate trends into commercially viable products.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your years of experience, key responsibilities, and achievements in product design and development, using keywords relevant to apparel design and retail.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on storytelling and articulating your design process. Prepare answers to common interview questions related to design strategy, collaboration, and trend interpretation.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Target, the Cat & Jack brand, and their design philosophy. Understand their market position, target customer, and recent collections to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment.

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