Technical Performance Apparel & Accessories Designer / Developer
Location: East London
Type: Freelance initially, with opportunity for permanent employment
Working Pattern: 4 days studio-based / 1 day remote
Start Date: Immediate
Salary: Approx. £45,000 per annum, dependant on experience.
About the Role
Knox is a well-established performance-led, premium motorcycle brand that design & produce innovative apparel, protection, gloves and other accessories.
Knox is based between their Lake District Head Office and their East-London design office.
Knox are seeking an experienced and versatile Technical Performance Apparel & Accessories Designer / Developer to join our East London team.
This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role suited to a technically strong product designer with strong experience across performance apparel and accessories. The ideal candidate will combine creative vision with technical understanding, strong construction knowledge, and a practical approach to product development.
Working within a small and collaborative team, the role requires someone who is proactive, resourceful, organised and able to take ownership of products from concept to production.
We are particularly interested in applicants from performance-driven sectors, including:
- Activewear
- Outdoor apparel
- Motorcycle apparel
- Cycling
- Workwear / PPE
- Technical product development studios
This role will involve working across garments, gloves, accessories, armour systems, and emerging 3D development projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate closely with the Design Director, pattern makers, and production team to design and develop new products from initial concept through to production and market launch.
- Co-ordinate multiple technical development projects simultaneously across apparel and accessories categories.
- Research and develop new concepts, materials, trims, finishes, and construction methods appropriate to each product category.
- Create detailed technical drawings, specifications, and technical files for product development and factory communication.
- Work directly with suppliers and factories on development, costing, lead times, MOQ negotiation, and production troubleshooting.
- Maintain clear communication with overseas factories via meetings, email, Teams, and telephone.
- Review and comment on samples, ensuring fit, construction, function, and finish meet required standards.
- Ensure products meet internal quality expectations alongside relevant CE and safety standards where applicable.
- Work alongside testing labs and development partners to support technically compliant product development.
- Present concepts and developments clearly to the wider team while responding constructively to feedback.
- Attend regular design, development, and production meetings to track progress against critical paths and delivery timelines.
- Apply strong garment construction knowledge to ensure products are functional, protective, commercially and technically viable and manufacturable at scale.
- Maintain organised archives of samples, trims, fabrics, accessories, and development materials.
Skills & Experience Required
- Minimum 5–10 years’ experience within performance, technical, or protective apparel/product development roles.
- Strong technical understanding of apparel construction, manufacturing processes, and product development workflows.
- Excellent Adobe Illustrator and InDesign skills.
- Competency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
- Experience with 3D design software is highly desirable.
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative and manage workload independently.
- Comfortable working within a small, collaborative team environment.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- An understanding of functional product design, technical construction, and performance-led development within motorcycle, outdoor, cycling, or protective apparel sectors would be highly advantageous.
Package & Benefits
- Freelance role with opportunity to transition into a permanent position for the right candidate.
- Healthcare package available for PAYE employees.
- Progressive holiday allowance.
- Staff discount.
Application Process
To be considered, applicants must submit:
- A CV
- Cover letter
- A concise portfolio showcasing relevant technical and performance product work
A practical pre-hire task may form part of the interview process.
Pay: £45,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Employee discount
- Private medical insurance
- Store discount
Ability to commute/relocate:
- London E8 1HE: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work Location: In person
