Assistant Designer, Kidswear (3-12 years)

Apply on JLP Jobs - the official careers website for John Lewis Partnership, John Lewis & Partners, and Waitrose & Partners.

Are you passionate about a career in Kidswear? Do you want to work for a premium fashion brand? If so, read on. We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Entry-Level Fashion Designer to join our kidswear design team at a premium fashion brand. You will demonstrate a strong aesthetic sensibility, a proactive mindset, and a deep passion for elevated design. You should be eager to learn, full of creative energy, and enthusiastic about contributing to a team that values innovation, craftsmanship, and fun!

You will be a kidswear designer with innate taste, an eye for detail, and a strong desire to grow within a collaborative environment. Bring energy, ambition, and originality to everything you do, with a clear passion for excellence.

• Full Partnership Salary Range: £26,300 - £35,000
• Expected Salary: Up to £31,000 depending on experience
• Contract type: Permanent contract
• Working pattern/flexible working: The Partnership has adopted a hybrid working approach, meaning you'll work a mix of office and home. The expectation is for three in-person days per week, generally Tuesday to Thursday, including store visits and meetings with brands/suppliers. Note: travel costs are the candidate's responsibility.
• Location: Based at our Pimlico Head Office

As an Assistant Designer, you will support design, product development, and the delivery of original, trend-relevant, customer-centric own brand products, utilizing customer insights to inspire and delight our customers and support commercial growth. This role focuses on developing foundational product design skills and supporting the design process from concept to production.

You will assist in the operational running of the Fashion Design Studios, working alongside other Designers to coordinate needs, providing administrative and equipment support. A good understanding of design principles, technical approaches, and relevant technology is essential.

Key responsibilities

• Support girlswear and boyswear designers in developing seasonal collections aligned with our premium brand identity.
• Conduct trend research, fabric sourcing, and concept development.
• Prepare mood boards, sketches, and technical packages for communication.
• Utilize 3D design software (CLO3D) to create digital prototypes and visualize garment construction.
• Collaborate with pattern makers, technical developers, and production teams to ensure design quality.
• Present and share ideas confidently with the team.
• Participate in fittings, revisions, and sampling to maintain product integrity.
• Stay informed on emerging trends, materials, and innovative design techniques relevant to kidswear.

Essential skills/experience

• Passion and interest in kids clothing design.
• Sketching and illustration skills.
• Proficiency in design software such as CLO, 3D design, and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator).
• Understanding of the kidswear premium market, fabrics, and finishes.
• Entry-level understanding of technical construction and technical packages.
• Proactive, self-motivated, detail-driven, with understanding of target customer and market.
• Effective team working with excellent communication skills.
• Ability to clearly communicate design ideas.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Desirable skills/experience

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in Design.
• Portfolio demonstrating design skills.
• Experience in retail.
• Experience with automated processes.
• Proactive Learning and Development approach.
• Knowledge of product development processes.

Internal use only:

We're the largest employee-owned business in the UK, home to John Lewis and Waitrose. We're committed to building a happier world, focusing on retail excellence, innovation, and diversity. As Partners, we share ownership and responsibility, contributing to our success through kindness, respect, and embracing differences.

We aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive, grow individually and collectively. As Partners, we make a difference, and we own it.

Important points to note:

Some roles may require pre-employment vetting, including DBS checks. You will be informed if this applies. We encourage quick completion of any vetting documents to avoid delays. DBS checks are conducted by registered bodies, and additional checks may be required for some roles.

Applying early is advised, as vacancies may close early if filled quickly.

We support flexible working arrangements, including flexible hours, job sharing, or shorter contracts. Discuss options with the hiring manager during the interview.