Jobs/By role/CAD Designer
CAD Designer jobs
A CAD Designer turns design sketches into precise, production-ready digital files, using software such as Adobe Illustrator, Lectra or CLO3D to build technical drawings, prints and 3D garment simulations that pattern cutters and factories can work from. Fashion houses, sportswear brands and technical outerwear labels hire for this role, sometimes under titles like CAD technician or 3D designer. This page lists current openings, including a visualization and innovation post at Vans.
Also hired as: cad technician · 3d designer · clo3d designer
Open CAD Designer roles
1 live
The role, in practice
Working as a CAD Designer
What the day to day covers
Most of the work happens on screen. A CAD Designer builds tech packs, digitises hand sketches into flat drawings, creates repeats and colourways for prints, and adjusts patterns across a size run. Increasingly the role includes 3D work in tools like CLO3D, building virtual samples so a design can be reviewed and fitted before any physical fabric is cut.
Close contact with pattern cutters, textile designers and production teams is constant, since the files produced here are what factories actually work from. Deadlines are tight and revisions frequent, so accuracy and speed matter as much as creative flair.
What hiring managers look for
A portfolio showing clean, accurate technical drawings alongside any 3D or print work carries more weight than a design statement. Fluency in Illustrator is expected almost everywhere, and many briefs now ask for CLO3D, Lectra or Optitex experience too. Some employers want a working knowledge of garment construction and grading rules rather than just software skills.
Because output often travels to overseas factories, clear written communication and sometimes a second language help. Career progression usually runs from CAD technician through to senior CAD designer, and from there into 3D design specialism or a broader design management role.
Common questions
Becoming a CAD Designer
What qualifications do I need to become a CAD Designer?
Most employers ask for a fashion, textile or product design qualification, though a strong portfolio of technical drawings and 3D work can substitute for a degree. Proficiency in software such as Illustrator, Lectra or CLO3D is expected from day one. Formal certification in specific CAD packages is a bonus rather than a requirement.
How does a CAD Designer differ from a fashion designer?
A fashion designer originates the concept, silhouette and story behind a garment, while a CAD Designer translates that concept into accurate technical files, patterns and 3D visuals that production teams can use. The two roles often sit side by side on the same team, with the CAD Designer supporting rather than replacing the creative lead. Some CAD Designers move into design roles over time as their creative input grows.
Can I move into CAD design from another career?
Yes, it is a common route for people coming from pattern cutting, textile design or technical design backgrounds who already understand garment construction. What matters most to employers is demonstrable software skill and a portfolio, so building one, even through personal projects, helps a career change. Retraining courses focused on CLO3D or Lectra are widely available and often enough to open entry level doors.
Get new roles in your inbox
A weekly alert with the best new fashion roles across Europe — tuned to the disciplines and cities you care about.