Product Developer (On-Site)

About Us

Gopher Sport is an industry-leading inventor and seller of high-quality, innovative products used by teachers, coaches, and kids for physical education, athletics, fitness, and recreation. Our mission is “To help teachers and coaches show kids how to have fun and be healthier through physical activity.” Founded in 1947, we are committed to giving our customers innovative, high-quality products; fast, friendly, easy service; and an unconditional satisfaction guarantee.

Our Values:

• We create delighted fans
• We are one dependable and trustworthy team
• We are passionate about quality and excellence
• We move fast to innovate, simplify, and improve

About the Role

This role manages product development projects from concept through launch, working closely with vendors and internal teams to deliver products that meet company standards for quality, functionality, profitability, and customer value. You will manage assigned product portfolios, conduct ongoing product and category reviews, and identify opportunities to turn existing product improvements into future development projects. This is a full-time, in-person position in Owatonna, MN.

Responsibilities

• Manage assigned product development projects from concept through launch using Gopher Sport's established product development process.
• Ensure products meet or exceed company standards for differentiation, performance, appearance, functionality, quality, and profitability.
• Develop Product Requirements Documents (PRDs) using market research, customer insights, usability considerations, and financial analysis.
• Identify, evaluate, negotiate with, onboard, and manage supplier partners throughout the product development lifecycle.
• Coordinate the development, testing, evaluation, documentation, and approval of prototypes, samples, and production-ready products.
• Manage all activities required to transition approved products into production, ready for first shipment, ensuring product quality and launch readiness.
• Investigate product quality concerns and collaborate with vendors and internal teams to implement corrective actions.
• Lead the development of product collateral, including product descriptions, user manuals, assembly instructions, and other customer-facing materials.
• Review product categories and assortments to identify market gaps, product improvement opportunities, and future development projects.
• Lead product improvement initiatives by translating customer, market, and business insights into product enhancements and new development opportunities.
• Maintain accurate product specifications, project documentation, and supporting records throughout the product lifecycle.
• Collaborate cross-functionally and support the ongoing growth and performance of assigned product projects.

Requirements

• 4-year Bachelor’s degree in Business, Project Management, Supply Chain, Marketing, or related field.
• Strong project management and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing processes, materials, and product costing.
• Ability to drive timelines and hold stakeholders accountable.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability.
• Ability to balance multiple priorities and adapt quickly.
• Proficient with all Microsoft Office applications.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Traditional and HSA Health Insurance options, plus Vision.
• 3 weeks of Paid Time Off accrued the first year.
• 3 weeks of remote work flexible hours.
• 8 company-paid holidays.
• Profit sharing and 401K.
• Lifestyle Spending Account.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Product discounts.
• Onsite fitness center.

Pay

Salary Range is $66,000 to $83,000.