Materials Development | Materials Specialist – Product Development
Job Summary
Requirements
Responsibilities
Qualifications
Skills
Benefits
Pay
Schedule
The Materials Specialist oversees the end-to-end materials creation process for internal or external product production. The role focuses on ensuring timely development of materials in line with critical dates, product specs, sustainability, performance, and profitability targets. You will manage documentation, sampling, prototyping, and technical advisement, while monitoring market trends and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams for successful commercialization.
- Identify and research new materials, textiles, technologies, and trends—including sustainable and innovative options
- Collaborate with design and development teams to translate concepts into material specifications and align on material selections
- Source/select materials, trims, and findings, considering performance, look, cost, and lead times
- Oversee sample development and testing; analyze performance data to ensure materials meet quality, integrity, and design goals
- Maintain accurate documentation: technical specs, testing outcomes, prototypes, and production guidelines
- Serve as technical advisor on materials to Product Developers, and work with Manufacturing on cost targets and process improvements
Qualifications
A Bachelor's degree preferred (alternatives accepted: PhD or Law +1yr; Master's +0–3yrs; Associate's +1–3yrs; High School +3–5yrs)
Strong technical expertise in textiles, materials science, apparel construction, and manufacturing processes
Excellent problem-solving, organization, and time management skills; able to juggle multiple projects and deadlines
Proven communication and interpersonal abilities; able to collaborate effectively with product, design, sourcing, and manufacturing teams