Rip Curl Women's Apparel Designer

About Rip Curl

Founded in Torquay in 1969, Rip Curl is The Ultimate Surfing Company, born from a relentless pursuit for waves, adventure, and freedom, called ‘The Search’. Today, The Search continues to inspire all that we do, from the products we make, the events we run, the athletes we support, and the values we strive to uphold. Built by surfers, for surfers, Rip Curl is a global company that has been leading the surf industry for over 50 years. As a certified B Corp, we aim to prioritise people and planet in everything we do. The Search is calling… apply today and become part of The Ultimate Surfing company.

About the Role

We’re on the lookout for a Women’s Apparel Designer to join our Product team, the engine room behind everything we create.

Working alongside our Women’s Apparel Design team, you’ll support the design process from concept through to development, helping bring product to life. This is a great opportunity for an emerging designer to build hands-on experience across all stages of the design lifecycle while developing strong technical foundations in fit, construction and product execution.

About the Team

Our Product Department is where ideas turn into reality.

You’ll work closely with Designers, Developers and cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, purpose-built product, supporting seasonal ranges that are aligned to our brand, our customer and the way she lives.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

Design & Development

• Support the design team in delivering seasonal product across trend, colour, print and silhouette direction
• Assist in bringing concepts to life from initial sketches through to development
• Support fit sessions, strike-offs and colour approvals, providing clear comments to refine product outcomes
• Contribute to maintaining consistency of fit, construction and product detail across the range

Customer & Product Understanding

• Build a strong understanding of the Rip Curl customer including her lifestyle, influences and behaviours to inform design decisions
• Support trend research, competitor analysis and seasonal direction

Execution & Detail

• Assist in preparing artwork, CADs and technical information with a high level of accuracy
• Maintain quality and consistency across colourways, trims and product details
• Ensure design outputs align with timelines and critical path requirements

Collaboration

• Work closely with Design, Product Development and Sourcing teams to support smooth workflow and delivery
• Demonstrate a proactive approach, strong communication and a willingness to learn

What You’ll Bring

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Fashion or Apparel Design
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Illustrator
• Solid understanding of knit and woven garment construction
• High attention to detail and strong organisational capability
• A team-first mindset with flexibility and willingness to learn
• Basic understanding of production processes and challenges
• Passion for product, design and the Rip Curl brand

Why Join Us

At Rip Curl, we’re driven by The Search—a passion for product, innovation and the outdoors.

You’ll be part of a team that

• Creates high-quality, purpose-built apparel
• Values creativity, collaboration and continuous improvement
• Supports your growth and development as a designer

Ready to get started?

If you’re into great people, good vibes, and epic product, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and join us at Rip Curl — your next Search starts here.

Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at KMD Brands

At KMD Brands, we believe that diversity makes us stronger. We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to be themselves. We celebrate the unique backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our people — across age, gender, identity, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and physical and mental ability. We know that when our team reflects the communities we serve, we create better outcomes for everyone. We proudly acknowledge and pay respect to Tangata Whenua, the Indigenous Nations, First Peoples, and Custodians of the lands and waterways on which our brand head offices reside in Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia and the United States. Their enduring connection to land, waters, and culture continues to inspire and guide us.