Freelance Designer for Sewing Atelier

JOB DESCRIPTION:

Reporting To: Deputy Director

Position: Freelance Designer for Sewing Atelier

Tahaddi is a Lebanese NGO established in 2008 whose aim is to empower families facing extreme poverty through the provision of education, health, psychosocial and livelihoods support. Tahaddi principally works in Hay el Gharbeh, an informal settlement in Southern Beirut. Tahaddi runs a non-formal education program, a primary health clinic, and a psychosocial center. In addition, Tahaddi operates an income-generating sewing atelier.

Tahaddi Lebanon is currently seeking a skilled and creative freelance product designer to support the Tahaddi atelier develop two products lines. One line will target NGOs and businesses who purchase items in bulk, while the second will be for individual customers and include personal items (such as bags, household items and beachwear).  The designer should be up-to-date with industry trends and able to translate these into fresh ideas and products.

Responsibilities:

•Spend time at the sewing workshop getting to know the current product lines and also to gain an understanding of the skill level of the team.

•Collaborate with the atelier team to develop new product designs and translate them into detailed sketches and technical drawings.

•Select and secure appropriate fabrics and accessories for new products based on design specifications and budget considerations.

•In line with seamstress’ skill level, develop patterns and prototypes, ensuring accuracy and proper construction techniques

•Ensure quality control by overseeing sewing atelier staff execution of designs, providing support as needed.

•Produce two new product lines – one for bulk items and one for individual customers

Requirements:

•Proven experience and success as a product designer with a strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in designing sewn products

•Educational background in a design-related field

•In-depth knowledge of fabrics, trims, and garment construction methods.

•Excellent understanding of design principles, color theory, and fashion trends.

•Familiarity with sewing and pattern making.

•Strong organizational and ability meet deadlines.

•Attention to detail and ability to work with precision and accuracy.

•Demonstrate professionalism in working with a team from different backgrounds.

•Adherence to Tahaddi’s core values of acting with justice and integrity, and working with families and youth in a situation of extreme poverty with compassion and respect.