CAD Marker, Grading & Ratings Technician

SUMMARY:
CAD Marker, Grading & Ratings Technician
Textile / Clothing Manufacturing
Pinetown

My client in the clothing manufacturing industry is seeking an experienced CAD Marker, Grading & Ratings Technician to join their team in Pinetown. The successful candidate will be responsible for creating accurate production markers, grading garment patterns, calculating fabric consumption, and maintaining CAD pattern libraries using the Lectra CAD system. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, strong technical knowledge, and the ability to work to strict production deadlines while maximising fabric utilisation and supporting efficient manufacturing processes.

POSITION INFO:

Bulk Marker Preparation

• Create bulk production markers using the Lectra CAD system.
• Optimise marker layouts to achieve maximum fabric utilisation while meeting production requirements.
• Ensure grainlines, pattern direction, fabric width, nap, stripe, and check requirements are accurately applied.
• Produce markers that comply with customer specifications and factory standards.
• Amend and regenerate markers when production requirements or garment specifications change.

Ratings & Fabric Consumption

• Generate accurate marker ratings and fabric consumption reports.
• Calculate fabric utilisation percentages and marker efficiencies.
• Provide fabric consumption data for costing, merchandising, and production planning.
• Ensure all ratings and consumption reports are completed within required deadlines.

Pattern Grading

• Grade approved garment patterns according to customer grading specifications and company standards.
• Ensure grading maintains garment proportions, fit, and balance across all size ranges.
• Verify graded patterns for accuracy before release to production.
• Implement grading amendments as directed by Pattern Makers or Technical personnel.
• Maintain accurate grading records and effective version control.

CAD Pattern Administration

• Perform authorised CAD pattern amendments when required.
• Maintain organised electronic pattern libraries and marker files.
• Ensure all CAD files are accurately named, stored, and version controlled.
• Archive obsolete patterns and markers in accordance with company procedures.
• Safeguard the integrity of approved production patterns.

Planning & Coordination

• Prioritise workloads according to production critical paths and customer deadlines.
• Liaise with Pattern Makers, Merchandisers, Production Planning, and Manufacturing teams regarding marker requirements.
• Respond promptly to urgent style amendments and production changes.
• Maintain productivity and accuracy while working under tight deadlines.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve marker efficiency and reduce fabric wastage.
• Assist with improving CAD procedures and standard operating processes.
• Support the implementation of new technologies and process improvements.
• Maintain proficiency in Lectra CAD software and related systems.

Minimum Requirements

• Relevant experience as a CAD Marker, Grading & Ratings Technician or in a similar role within the clothing manufacturing industry.
• Proficient in Lectra CAD software.
• Strong knowledge of marker making, pattern grading, and fabric utilisation.
• Understanding of garment construction, pattern engineering, and clothing manufacturing processes.
• Excellent numerical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict production deadlines.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.