Technical Designer (Volunteer)

Technical Designer (Volunteer) Organization: Mentor A Promise (MAP) Location: Remote (with potential NYC-based collaboration) Type: Volunteer About Mentor A Promise Mentor A Promise (MAP) is a youth-centered nonprofit dedicated to supporting students ages 5–18 experiencing housing instability in New York City. Through mentorship, social-emotional learning, academic enrichment, and creative expression, we create safe, consistent, and empowering spaces for young people to grow, thrive, and succeed. We believe every child deserves a promise kept — and we work every day to make that promise real. Role Overview We are seeking a Volunteer Technical Designer to support Thread & Promise, MAP’s mission-driven fashion initiative. The Technical Designer will bridge the gap between creative design and production, ensuring garments meet quality, fit, and construction standards. You will work closely with fashion designers, pattern makers, and production partners to develop detailed technical packages that bring our designs to life. This role is ideal for someone with a strong eye for detail, technical expertise, and a passion for ethical, socially conscious fashion. Key Responsibilities Develop and maintain detailed technical packages (tech packs) for apparel and accessories. Work with pattern makers and designers to ensure accuracy in fit, grading, and construction. Create garment specifications, measurement charts, and construction details. Review samples and provide clear feedback for improvements and corrections. Collaborate with production partners to ensure feasibility, cost efficiency, and quality standards. Support research into sustainable materials and ethical production methods. Maintain consistency in sizing, fit, and quality across all Thread & Promise designs. Requirements Proven experience as a Technical Designer in fashion or apparel production. Proficiency in design and technical tools (Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, CLO3D, or similar). Strong knowledge of garment construction, grading, and textiles. Ability to create and update detailed tech packs. Strong communication and collaboration skills. Attention to detail and problem-solving mindset. Passion for mission-driven work and ethical fashion. Preferred Skills Experience working with small-batch or sustainable production. Familiarity with supply chain and vendor communications. Knowledge of apparel costing, efficiency, and quality control. Exposure to nonprofit or social-impact projects in fashion. What You’ll Gain Hands-on experience shaping a purpose-driven fashion line. Collaboration with designers, pattern makers, and a passionate team. A portfolio project that demonstrates technical precision and social impact. Opportunity to contribute to a brand that carries meaning in every stitch. Letters of recommendation and professional references for future opportunities. How to Apply Please send your resume, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio of technical design or tech pack samples to hr@mentorapromise.org along with a brief statement of interest. Join us in turning designs into reality for Thread & Promise, where every garment is crafted with purpose and tells a story of mentorship, resilience, and hope.