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 hunt for an Apparel Designer - Performance to join the crew at Rip Curl HQ in Torquay. You’ll be part of our global product team, leading the charge on technical outerwear, fleece, mountainwear, and more—gear built to handle the elements and keep surfers and everyone on the Search, moving 365 days a year.
This role is all about designing functional, on-trend apparel that performs in the wild and looks good doing it. You’ll be fanatical about fit, fabric, and function, and you’ll work closely with the Head of Design, Head of Product, and a tight-knit design crew to bring innovative ideas to life.
What You’ll Be Doing

Design That Performs

• Lead the design of performance apparel that’s built for purpose—think technical jackets, fleece, and winter gear.
• Stay ahead of global trends and translate them into surf-ready, mountain-tough product.
• Nail the balance between style, function, and price across a range of silhouettes and categories.
• Create detailed specs and work closely with developers, fit models, and pattern makers to bring your designs to life.

Innovation & Impact

• Drive innovation in winter product and performance fabrics that elevate the surf and beach lifestyle.
• Support Rip Curl’s sustainability goals by designing with purpose and responsibility.
• Deliver product that’s not just good—it’s best-in-class and ready for the Search.

Collaboration & Crew

• Work side-by-side with the Head of Design and other designers to create cohesive, head-to-toe stories.
• Collaborate with the broader Apparel team to share ideas and solve challenges together.
• Partner with Product Development, Marketing, and Sales to make sure your designs hit the mark in every region.

What You’ll Bring

• A deep understanding of garment construction, trims, and technical fabrics.
• Strong CAD skills (Adobe Illustrator & Photoshop are your go-tos).
• A sharp eye for trends and the ability to turn them into functional, wearable product.
• Experience designing to FOB and working with global suppliers.
• Great communication, time management, and the ability to juggle multiple priorities.
• A genuine connection to the Rip Curl brand, its values, and the surf lifestyle.

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.
Click APPLY and join us on The Search.
Join us in shaping a workplace where everyone belongs.
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled

Please refer the Job description for details