Product Developer

About the role

At SanMar, the work you do makes a difference. The Product Developer supports the development process from the initial concept to the commercialized product, and is responsible for fabric/trim approvals, color, testing, sample reviews, costing, and compliance documents.

Responsibilities

• Support the product creation process through a complete cycle, driving development of fabric, trims, and styles to facilitate prototype approval during product development.
• Build and maintain the Product Development portion of technical product specifications (BOM, trims, labels, packaging, and associated technical images as needed).
• Partner with Regional Offices and Sr/PD Managers to drive costing quotes and help deliver product margin for new developments, resourcing, and cost improvements.
• Manage lab-dip requests to vendors, collaborating with Color and Merchandising team on timely Lab-Dip and Bulk Color submissions.
• Execute testing requirements on new and resourced development styles with the PI team & Decorator Relations team.
• Maintain all tested materials, samples, and track testing reports. Communicate results to suppliers, QA, Merchandisers.
• Monitor development deliverables of Product Creation Calendar across the cross-functional team.
• Manage ELC chart and maintain seasonal costing quotes with managers’ guidance. Provide costing comparisons on developments to Merchandising.
• Review and comment on Pre-Production/Top of Production samples with Tech Design partners.
• Execute photo shoot and salesman samples process on a seasonal basis, ensuring complete review of quality and color.
• Manage Compliance/Classification/Safety requirements for products in the development cycle.
• Resolve production and delivery issues, supporting process improvement and on-time delivery.
• Maintain the fabric swatch library, top-of-production sample library, style files, and sample racks.
• Proofread marketing materials for accuracy of all content.
• Administer the resourcing process of current products and programs. Maintain change logs and product databases.
• Travel domestically and/or internationally may be required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Comply with all policies and standards.

Requirements

• 6+ years in product development and production management, or equivalent education
• Understanding of the garment and textile manufacturing processes.
• Knowledgeable in component costing, including garment construction, raw material options, and landing factors
• Basic understanding of international trade agreements, duty & tariff,