Fashion Designer & Retail Merchandising Manager

Job description

About the role We are a growing chain of 16 boutique yoga studios across Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York, each featuring a curated retail space. We are seeking a creative, highly organized Merchandising & Design Specialist to lead the development, design, and merchandising of our branded apparel and accessories, helping shape and elevate the retail experience across all studio locations. This role is ideal for someone with a strong eye for design, deep understanding of retail merchandising, and passion for creating cohesive brand experiences. The ideal candidate is both creative and operationally minded, capable of managing product development from concept through launch while driving compelling in-studio and online merchandising strategies. What you'll do Product Design & Development: Lead the design, execution, and development of branded apparel and accessories collections from initial concept through to production, including trend forecasting, design illustration, and detailed technical package (tech pack) creation. Select fabrics, trims, colors and patterns for garment production. Visual Merchandising & Strategy: Oversee merchandising across all studio retail spaces, developing and executing visual strategies to ensure product displays are cohesive, engaging, and aligned with our brand image. Assortment Planning & Buying: Collaborate on product selections, manage assortment planning, and contribute to setting a profitable pricing strategy. Reporting: Regularly communicate and report directly to the CEO on retail performance, design progress, and operational status. Qualifications A minimum of three years’ experience in a combined role encompassing design, merchandising, or retail inventory management. Proven expertise in fashion design, product development, and retail operations Technical degree at FIDM or equivalent preferred. Experience managing production with both domestic and overseas vendors. Submission of a professional design portfolio is mandatory. A keen eye for aesthetic presentation and a genuine interest in yoga or wellness fashion. Must be a self-starter, capable of working independently and taking initiative across creative and logistical tasks. Ability to work across multiple locations in the LA area. Salary Range: $80,000 - $100,000 About Hot 8 Yoga At Hot 8 Yoga, we embody the practice we teach. Powered by heat, movement, and community, we are the premier hot yoga studio coast to coast with locations across California and New York City. Our philosophy is rooted in connection and in the belief that true transformation begins when individuals step into purpose-driven work. We offer a wide range of class styles, so there’s space for every level and every body and our studios are sleek, spotless, and intentionally hot. We are more than a yoga studio, we are a community. If you are passionate about wellness and looking to contribute to a professional, supportive, and mission-driven environment, we'd love to hear from you!