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Senior Specialist - Apparel Developer (Future Concepts)

Location: Zurich

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Apparel & Accessories Product Creation

In short

As a Senior Apparel Developer within the Future Concepts team at On, you will lead the research, ideation, and development of advanced, innovation-driven apparel. You will work at the intersection of product, science, and creativity - driving technically complex projects from early concept through to validated prototypes and scalable solutions. This role requires deep expertise in technical garment construction, particularly within women's performance apparel, and the ability to operate across multiple workflows and timelines, in dynamic, early-stage development environments. You will play a critical role in shaping future product directions by exploring new construction techniques, materials, and performance solutions.

Your Mission

Drive High-Performance Innovation: Lead the creation of advanced, technically complex women’s performance apparel, seamlessly translating boundary-pushing design concepts into functional prototypes.
Master Complex Project Lifecycles: Champion multiple concurrent initiatives in a dynamic, non-seasonal environment, utilizing detailed micro-calendars to proactively navigate challenges and keep projects on track.
Forge Cross-Functional Partnerships: Act as the central project leader aligning Design, Materials, Sourcing, and Sports Science teams to explore and validate cutting-edge technologies and advanced textiles.
Engine for Precision & Fit: Direct rigorous fit development, pattern refinement, and advanced construction techniques focused on durability, support, and high-intensity athletic use.
Validate Through Data & Sport Science: Drive product testing by integrating athlete feedback, biomechanics, and performance data, collaborating with global manufacturing partners to scale experimental concepts.
Cultivate Culture & Excellence: Spearhead creative problem-solving across technical constraints, maintain meticulous data integrity, and mentor junior team members to foster an innovation-driven environment.

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Your story

Proven Performance Expertise: 5+ years of apparel development experience with a deep, specialized focus on technical performance apparel and concept-driven innovation projects.
Education & Mindset: A degree in Apparel Engineering, Fashion Design, or a related discipline, paired with a forward-thinking, creative problem-solving mindset and a willingness to travel globally.
Technical Mastery: Advanced knowledge of garment construction, pattern refinement, and fit/performance requirements across a diverse range of sports.
Data & Athlete Validation: Strong background in product testing methodologies, with experience collaborating directly with athletes, testers, and sports scientists to validate performance.
Cross-Functional Project Leadership: Demonstrated ability to manage complex project lifecycles, align cross-functional teams, and successfully collaborate with global manufacturing partners.
Tools & Technical Acumen: Technical proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, PLM systems, and maintaining highly accurate technical documentation.
Language Skills: Proficiency in English. Other languages are a plus.

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About the Team

We are a collaborative, creative, and science-driven team focused on shaping the future of performance apparel. Our work goes beyond seasonal product creation—we explore new ideas, challenge conventions, and develop innovative solutions that influence the next generation of products. We turn cutting-edge concepts into validated prototypes and scalable innovations. We thrive in an environment of curiosity, experimentation, and continuous learning, pushing the boundaries of what performance apparel can achieve. Our ambition is to redefine performance for the athlete - creating products that not only meet the demands of elite sport but actively enhance it. Through innovation, testing, and a deep understanding of the athlete, we aim to revolutionise the performance apparel space and deliver meaningful impact where it matters most.

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Sindy

Apparel Developer

We always look for better decisions, we always listen to people and listen to different colleagues. We listen, we digest, and we find the most suitable one for all the team and everybody benefits. That process makes us really innovative.

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What we offer

On is a place that is centered around growth and progress. We offer an environment designed to give people the tools to develop holistically – to stay active, to learn, explore and innovate. Our distinctive approach combines a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere, with access to personal self-care for both physical and mental well-being, so each person is led by purpose.

On is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a work environment that is fair and inclusive, where all decisions related to recruitment, advancement, and retention are free of discrimination.

Build the better you

What to expect

We want to set everyone up for success, so here’s the lowdown on how we hire. Our process is a two-way street – bringing you into our culture, while helping us learn how you think.

Our full process can last about eight weeks from application to offer, because we care about getting it right. These steps explain how we usually do things.

Before you get started, feel free to consider if you want to work with us. Strange question? Well, we give people a lot of space to navigate their day-to-day and that style isn't for everyone. We want you to be passionate about what you do and be sure this is the right fit. Because when skills and passion combine – it creates that 'Wow' moment.