Assistant Designer

lemlem is a women resortwear, ready-to-wear and swimwear brand made responsibly in Africa, with a core mission of preserving the local art of weaving in Ethiopia and inspiring economic growth on the continent.

As a B Corp company, lemlem is committed to building a strong, fair and sustainable fashion industry in Africa, taking a holistic approach to production that values and upholds artisans, craftsmanship, the environment and communities. We are seeking a NYC-based Assistant Designer with strong design and technical skills, a keen eye for detail and a growth mindset.

This position will be responsible to support the design team and will report directly into the Designer.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Concept: Create sketches, CAD Print / Design Development and presentation materials; research seasonal trends, fabrics, and prints; support e-commerce photoshoots on set.

Technical & Product Development

Build and maintain tech packs, line sheets, BOMs, and garment data in Apparel Magic (PLM); support fit sessions across all categories.

Sourcing & Sample Management

Source local trims, liaise with domestic sample rooms, and review samples, fabrics, and trims with cross-functional teams.

Operations & Communication

Detail production feedback to overseas factories and coordinate international/domestic sample shipping.

Office Organization

Maintains product development logs, line sheets, boards and design archives library Ad hoc projects as needed in Design Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design (or equivalent). 1–2 years of fashion design experience. Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop (AI rendering skills a plus) and MS Excel.

Solid understanding of garment construction, fabrications, and trims.

Strong sketching and illustration ability Excellent attention to detail and follow through Strong written and verbal communication skills Exceptional organizational, multitasking, and cross-functional communication skills True team player, agility and can-do attitude Enthusiasm, & passion for mission based, purpose-driven, sustainable fashion Ability to work in a small, fast paced environment Benefits available: Generous PTO, holidays, sick time 401K with company match Commuter benefits Clothing allowance and generous discount The salary range for this role is $45,000-$52,000. lemlem is committed to building an equitable and inclusive work environment.

We believe that diversity in all its forms – race, gender, age, nationality, culture, religious beliefs, disability, and sexual orientation – is a source of creativity that enriches our business. We are dedicated to promoting a culture of belonging for our team, our partners, and our customers.