Job Description
About the Role
The Product Developer supports the end-to-end product lifecycle by partnering closely with Design, Merchandising, R&D, and Sourcing teams to deliver high-quality, cost-effective, and on-brand products. This role bridges creative design intent with technical execution, ensuring that all seasonal products meet aesthetic, cost, and delivery targets.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with Design and Merchandising to translate creative concepts into commercially viable products that align with brand strategies and target cost structures.
- Manage pre-season and in-season production, including sample tracking, prototype evaluation, and approval coordination using PLM, Smartsheet, and Miro.
- Review and analyze vendor cost breakdowns, providing predictive hand-costing during sketch review and supporting value engineering initiatives to meet AUC and margin goals.
- Prepare and present seasonal cost analysis reports; highlight cost drivers and recommend sourcing or design adjustments as needed.
- Support process innovation by identifying efficiencies and standardizing best practices in product development and vendor management.
Qualifications
- 3–5 years of experience in product development or production management in apparel, ideally in a global retail environment.
- Strong knowledge of costing, sourcing strategies, and vendor management.
- Proficiency with PLM systems, Smartsheet, Miro, and Excel.
- Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Collaborative, detail-oriented, and proactive in problem-solving.
Preferred Experience
- Previous experience managing cross-functional development with global vendors.
- Strong understanding of fabric, trims, and garment construction.
- Demonstrated ability to balance aesthetic, quality, and cost objectives.
Job Tags
Seasonal work,