The Position: Product Developer II Apparel
Position Summary:
The Product Developer II: Apparel will be assigned specific product development collections and oversee all development activity for these collections from design hand-off through sales sample evaluation and into pre-production. Must be able to operate at the macro strategic level and most importantly interpret and execute tactical initiatives and details during the product creation cycle and ensuring that the commercialization of each product meets design, fit, and quality requirements. Working in collaboration with the Director of Apparel, Apparel Product Line Managers and both internal and external design, the Product Developer II: Apparel must ensure products meet or exceed expectations of users in accordance with industry best practices.
The product Developer II: Apparel will oversee timelines, prototype and fit reviews, product specifications, product quality, costing, and production execution. Must be able to manage indirect resources and have in depth knowledge of patterns and construction techniques in order to properly commercialize and meet expectations.
Essential Functions:
- Documentation Development
Receive tech pack hand off from Design and oversee all documentation updates and communication. Ensure specification accuracy. Update Product Data systems, internal and external customers, etc as needed with product changes. Manage quality, cost, calendar, and other relevant documentation. Manage file storage locations.
- Proactive Prototype Development
Direct and oversee domestic and/or overseas development and manufacturing contractor(s). Active participant in the internal fit process for all new, revised and carry-in garments.
- Prototype Review and Fit Session Management
Oversee all review meetings specific to assigned development collections. Prepare agenda, room, product, and goals in advance of meeting. Interface closely with the specific Product Line Managers and the Design team (internal and external) to resolve any design/quality issues that arise during the development process. Make tech pack updates, pattern adjustments, etc as needed based on feedback from Review and Fit sessions. Clearly communication changes to factories and ensure proper execution. Overall, ensure that the development process proceeds such that the project(s) meets key phase approval dates and milestones.
- Raw Material Development and Communication
Will participate collaboratively in the successful conceptualize and/or receive new material(s) and trim(s) for the company. Ensure clear communication to factories.
- Product Safety & Quality Assurance
Work with the Black Diamond Quality Assurance group or nominated testing agency to ensure that all required testing and documentation are completed in a timely manner and in accordance with the development calendar. Ensure that the Quality Assurance Group, specific Product Line Managers, the Design group to resolve any Product Safety/Quality Assurance issues that arise during the development and testing process. Will ensure that the development product testing process proceeds such that the project(s) meets key phase check points and documentation requirements.
- Product Costing and Margin Enhancement
Will work with the specific Product Line Managers, Sourcing, and the Supply Chain Management group as well as nominated suppliers and contractors to develop a thorough understanding and complete documentation of specific product costing (Bill of Materials (BOM’s), and Free on Board Pricing (FOB’s). Will seek ways to lower costs during development process and work to develop projects to specified cost targets ensuring profitability for the company.
Qualifications:
- Education Required: Minimum of a Bachelor of Arts and/or Science degree from an accredited University or College
- Preferred: Professional training in Design, Development, Merchandising and International Business disciplines.
- Work Experience Required: Minimum of 4 years experience as a product developer. Must have the proven ability to understand design concepts and have a clear track record of developing products that meet all development objectives (Design, costing, quality and delivery). Must have extensive experience working independently both domestically and in Asia developing products with contractors and material suppliers. He/She must be comfortable negotiating costs and managing lead-times
Skills and General Experience:
Be self-directed, action-oriented, mature, confident, decisive, creative problem solver always willing to think outside the box. Must be persistent – doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer and eager to search out solutions to the challenge at hand that meet the business requirements. Climber, skier, or outdoor enthusiast highly preferred.
Proven problem solving ability and mechanical aptitude.
Have a proven problem solving ability and the natural inclination to think in three dimensions. Be an eternal optimist and a strong team player. Must have the ability to understand and create technical drawings and product specifications. Preference for this position will be given to those with excellent development experience appropriate to the company. Must have relevant computer expertise with Microsoft Office.
Proven Project/Timeline Management Skills.
Must have proven timeline/project management experience and be disciplined; details oriented, organized and have the ability to multi-task in a group environment.
Communication skills.
Must have the ability to clearly, concisely and accurately communicate technical product issues in both written and verbal form. Be able to shift communication styles to interact successfully with different types of people.
Team Leader/Player.
Must value working in a team environment and strive to contribute to the team’s success. Understands and respects the unique roles that each member plays.
Travel.
Must be willing to travel to within the US and abroad
Required licenses: Valid Drivers License and Passport
Position Type: Full Time
Employee May Telecommute: No
Country: United States
Willing to Relocate:
Willing to Travel:
Minimum Experience Required: 3-5 years
Job Application Web Site: http://careers.blackdiamondequipment.com/blackdiamondcareers/?adata=0EDdHuiKblXy6dXxy%2beeI8KFkYSJvUp1501A5qcWQDnLgRNHW3NutrdRv8NR5KavO9%2fA6COitljaa8mUtslV4Q%3d%3d
