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Sample Maker

Location: Zurich

Two men smile while discussing fabric and sole prototypes on a table in a bright workspace, with orange gloves in the foreground.

Apparel & Accessories Product Creation

In short

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Sample Maker with a passion for athletic and ready to wear apparel. In this role, you will be responsible for creating high-quality prototypes, muslins and mockups in partnership with pattern engineers, product development and designers to bring product concepts to life. The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in fabric handling (both cutting and sewing), garment construction and sewing techniques. This person should be self driven and eager to continuously grow their skills in apparel development. This role is a 6-month contract with potential for a permanent role.

Your Mission

Construct prototypes based on technical specifications, patterns, and alternative construction methods in collaboration with cross functional teams.
Determine optimal fabrics, trims, and sewing techniques for high-performance apparel.
Proactively identify and resolve construction challenges.
Support prototype-to-production transitions at a premium level.
Ensure samples meet strict quality standards for stitching, durability, and finish.
Maintain an organized workspace and efficient workflow.
Stay current on both athletic and ready to wear industry trends and advanced sewing techniques, specific to appearance and function.

Two women in athletic clothing sit on a bench with takeaway coffee cups, smiling and chatting after a workout.

Your story

Experience:

8+ years of experience as a Sample Maker, Sample Sewer, or in a similar role within apparel manufacturing, including employment experience in a factory, sample room, or tailoring shop.
Demonstrated technical proficiency in handling and sewing complex fabrications, spanning both stretch and non-stretch textiles.
Advanced experience with sewing athletics and ready to wear garments.
Understanding of garment construction and pattern interpretation.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in using industrial sewing machines (single-needle, overlock, coverstitch, etc.).
Ability to read and follow patterns, spec sheets, and technical sketches.
Experience working with all fabrications
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to quality craftsmanship.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with digital pattern-making software (e.g., Gerber, Lectra) is a plus.
Basic knowledge of garment dyeing, washing, or textile printing techniques (DTF, DTG).

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About the Team

We are focused, solutions-oriented, and able to take action upon imminent challenges. We establish and follow processes, but are also continuously confronting the status quo and the industry standard. We are engineers that steer pinnacle sportswear design ideas into functional reality. We are able to convert innovative concepts and prototypes into commercialised products with stringent quality and engineering standards, bringing them into the hands of our discerning, global customer base.

Product creation is a mindset, and every team member is empowered to make decisions with the understanding that failure is part of the learning and growth process. As an integrated function in the design and development organisation; we are detail-minded problem solvers; guiding and executing apparel technical development within tight timelines and the highest possible product quality, both on the shelf and in use.

Four people work on laptops around a high table in a glass meeting room, while another person walks by outside holding a drink.

A woman focussed on working with fabric on the table in front of her.

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.