Overview
Designer & Trend Specialist Jobs in New York, United States at JD Link Inc.
Position Overview
JD Link is seeking a Designer to support both market intelligence initiatives and end-to-end product development across a portfolio of brands. This role contributes to strategic research and seasonal direction for key retail partners, while also supporting the development of in-house brands.
The ideal candidate combines strong analytical and creative capabilities, with the ability to translate trend research and competitive insights into commercially viable product. This role requires a collaborative, detail-oriented individual who can operate across multiple categories and manage the product lifecycle from concept through production. We are looking for a high potential individual who has exceptional presentation and storytelling skills.
Key Responsibilities
Market Intelligence & Trend Strategy
- Develop seasonal market intelligence (MI) reports across womenswear, kidswear, and lifestyle categories
- Analyze trends using forecasting tools (e.g., WGSN, Future Snoops) and competitive retail analysis
- Translate insights into clear, actionable recommendations for product direction across retail partners
- Conduct in-store market research, including photographing retail floor sets to analyze assortment, merchandising strategies, and competitive positioning
- Conduct competitive benchmarking, including assortment, pricing, and category analysis
- Create client-facing presentations that communicate seasonal trends and business opportunities
Design & Product Development
- Support seasonal design direction across internal and client brands, including TSC
- Develop concept boards, color palettes, and graphic direction aligned with brand positioning
- Ensure alignment between design direction and merchandising/brand strategy
- Design and develop apparel across cut-and-sew knits, wovens, and sweaters
- Create CADs, artwork, and detailed tech pack inputs to support development
- Partner with vendors to manage sample development from proto through production (PP and TOP stages)
- Review and provide feedback on fit, construction, and quality to ensure design intent is maintained
- Participate in and help lead fit sessions across multiple product categories
- Collaborate with technical design to refine fit, construction, and garment execution
- Communicate directly with vendors to ensure clarity on design intent, revisions, and timelines
- Troubleshoot development challenges and support resolution in partnership with cross-functional teams
- Maintain organization across tech packs, sample tracking, and communication platforms
Qualifications
- 2-3+ years of experience in design and product development
- bachelor's degree or equivalent level of education in apparel/fashion design
- Strong experience across cut-and-sew knits, wovens, and sweaters
- Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
- Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
- Experience partnering with overseas vendors and managing development timelines
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in kidswear design & product development
- Experience with accessory and/or product design
- Experience working across multiple brands or within an agency/consulting environment
- Experience creating and preparing original artwork for production, including file setup and communication with print vendors
Title: Designer & Trend Specialist
Company: JD Link Inc.
Location: New York, United States
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