We are looking for a denim tailor with a passion for heritage menswear/womenswear and garment longevity. At Imogene and Willie, we don’t just "fix" jeans; we restore them. You will be responsible for high-precision alterations, including authentic chainstitch hemming, and complex denim reconstructions (darning). The ideal candidate has a coachable attitude, eagerness to learn, quickness accompanied  by precision and accuracy, and a perfectionist’s eye for stitch counting, thread matching, and seam allowance. This is a part-time, in-person role based at our Austin, TX store who will report to our Lead Tailor and Tailor Shop Manager. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Jean & Trouser Hemming: Execute precise chainstitch hems in under 10 minutes using our Pegasus W-200 machine, ensuring the correct "roping" effect for raw denim enthusiasts. In addition, executing precise trouser hems on varying types of fabrics in under 15 minutes. 
• Denim Repair & Darning: Prepare jeans for darning repair on behalf of Lead Tailor. Including structural repairs on blowouts, pocket bags, and honeycombs using color-matched backing fabric at correct weight and hand-feel depending on the garment.
• Custom Alterations: Must show skill or willingness to learn how to re-attach original hems, execute darts, replace and repair zippers, and jean reconstructions while maintaining the garment's factory aesthetic.
• Machine Maintenance: Perform basic oiling, threading, and troubleshooting on industrial lockstitch, overlock, and chainstitch machines.
• Administrative Duties: Intake and accurately log data for remote/local alterations and repairs in Airtable. Work with the customer experience team and use customer communication platforms to perform customer outreach regarding alterations and repairs. 

Technical Qualifications:

• Experience: We are open to candidates with all levels of experience. You must have a strong desire to learn the skill of denim tailoring. It is essential to the role to understand basic garment construction, fabric integrity, and work with patience and precision. Background in selvedge denim or tailoring would be preferred.  
• Equipment Mastery: Proven ability to operate industrial sewing machines. Familiarity with needle-feed, drop feed, chainstitch, and overlock machines. Understanding of selvedge denim, indigo dye properties, and the difference between sanforized and unsanforized fabrics.
• Precision: Ability to maintain a consistent 1/4" or 1/2" seam allowance on denim ranging from 10oz to 21oz.

Soft Skills & Culture Fit

• Cultural Fit: A friendly, collaborative attitude. We are a small team that thrives on shared knowledge, willingness to improve, and a team-player mentality. 
• Customer Experience: A strong willingness to always go above and beyond for customers. Having a solid understanding of our offerings and being able to communicate our services to customers. 
• Problem Solver: You look at a shredded knee blowout and see a puzzle, not a chore.
• Detail-Oriented: You notice when a thread color is one shade too dark or too light and won't settle for "good enough." 

Who we are:

imogene + willie was founded in 2009 with a dedication to high-quality, handcrafted denim. For 15 years, the brand has remained committed to always producing in the USA, prioritizing community and authentic storytelling. Made with love, made to last. We offer:

• A fast-paced, energetic, creative environment with passionate people who care a great deal about what we make and how
• Competitive pay and Full-Time benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, and Paid Parental Leave, just to name a few)
• Generous retirement contributions to ALL employees: 401(k) + 4% employer match
• Generous product discounts