Freelance Print Design Assistant

POSITION SUMMARY: A+O is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Freelance Print Design Assistant to support the Print Design team in the development and execution of seasonal print and pattern collections. The ideal candidate has a strong eye for color, pattern, and trend, along with an understanding of the contemporary fashion market and print development process. This role will support Senior Print Designers across the creative and production process, including artwork development, repeat creation, recoloring, file preparation, production communication, and seasonal research. The ideal candidate is organized, collaborative, and able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. KEY RESPONSIBLITIES: Print Design & Development Support Senior Print Designers with the ideation, creation, and development of seasonal print and pattern designs. Create and refine print repeats, colorways, and artwork variations. Recolor and manipulate existing artwork while maintaining design integrity. Prepare and organize artwork and technical files for production and overseas send-outs Assist with CAD printouts, artwork organization, and mill send-outs Maintain accuracy and consistency across print files and production materials. Research & Creative Development Conduct market, competitor, and trend research to inform future seasonal collections. Assist with mood boards, visual research, and seasonal concept development. Research emerging trends in color, pattern, artwork, and print direction. Maintain an organized library of relevant print and design references. Organization & Production Support Organize print receivings, artwork submissions, and production materials. Track artwork submissions and follow up on outstanding items as needed. Assist with ensuring mills and overseas factories submit artwork and strike-offs in accordance with established timelines. Communication & Collaboration Support communication between the Print Design team and overseas factories and mills. Maintain clear and timely email communication regarding artwork, submissions, revisions, and production updates. Collaborate closely with the Design and Product Development teams to ensure print artwork is accurately executed from concept through production. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Textile Design, Graphic Design, Fashion Design, or a related field. 1–4 years of print, textile, graphic, or related design experience within the fashion industry. Strong hand-drawing and painting skills with the ability to translate artwork into print concepts. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Photoshop and Illustrator. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Excel. Strong organizational and time-management skills. Understanding of the design and product development process across a variety of fabrics, materials, and fabrications. Strong communication and collaboration skills. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple priorities, and meet seasonal deadlines. Ability to work a hybrid schedule, including both in-office and remote work. $35-40 per hour (This range represents the low and high end of the anticipated base salary range for this NYC-based position. The base salary will depend on numerous factors such as: experience and qualifications for the role, experience level, skill set, and balancing internal equity relative to other AO employees.) This job description is not an exhaustive list of all functions that the employee may be required to perform, and the employee may be required to perform additional functions. Additionally, the job responsibilities may change at any time as necessitated by business demands.