melin Sr Technical Product Developer

Responsibilities

• Lead technical product development from design handoff to final production approval, serving as the primary technical resource for the cross-functional product team.
• Create, review, and redline engineering drawings and blueprints for all headwear components. Maintain accurate revision history and ensure all documentation is current, accessible, and aligned with supplier submitted construction documents, flagging discrepancies and driving resolution.
• Act as the main liaison between Design, overseas development teams (including Europe and Asia), and global suppliers to clearly communicate aesthetic, fit, technical, and construction requirements.
• Build, maintain, and update accurate tech packs, spec sheets, and seasonal design comment sheets at every sample stage.
• Own the execution of the product development calendar; build and manage seasonal tracking reports (via Asana) to ensure on-time delivery of all prototypes, materials, trims, and sales samples.
• Review all proto/DCS submits to ensure specifications meet expected quality standards; lead proto review meetings with Design to identify corrections, fit comments, and manufacturing recommendations.
• Ensure all products are developed within established target FOB costs to achieve company margin goals; identify and alleviate potential manufacturing, efficiency, and costing concerns early in the cycle.
• Lead the sourcing of innovative materials, trims, and components from Europe to Asia, ensuring superior product integrity and consistency across manufacturing bases.
• Conduct weekly status meetings with overseas development teams to align on timelines, compliance, and material testing.
• Travel internationally (China: 1–2 times per year) and domestically as required to visit factories, suppliers, and trade shows.

Qualifications

• 5–7+ years in product development focusing on headwear, footwear, or technical apparel/accessories.
• Technical engineering and/or pattern-making experience is a strong plus.
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Extremely proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) and product management tools (e.g., Asana).
• Deep understanding of sustainable fabrics, trims, new materials, and innovative manufacturing techniques.
• Agility & Drive: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and pivot quickly to meet tight deadlines (including 48-hour turnarounds when necessary).
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and a strong collaborator with exceptional organizational, communication, and decision-making capabilities.
• Genuine passion for premium product design and brand building.