Product Development Specialist

About the role

The Product Development Specialist supports the development and maintenance of new and existing products by collecting, validating, and updating product and vehicle data. This role builds and maintains strong relationships with domestic and international contacts, as well as internal and external business partners, to help ensure product quality, accuracy, and successful application development.

Responsibilities

• Establish and maintain positive, professional relationships with local and international automotive contacts
• Collaborate with Design team to develop and enhance new and existing products
• Collaborate with the International team to develop products for new vehicle applications
• Evaluate enhancements to existing products and translate research discoveries into usable and marketable products as needed
• Communicate with multiple departments throughout the company to deliver product related support
• Use available search tools to scan surrounding areas for new and available vehicles to test fit prototypes and approve design changes
• Travel to various off-site locations, both domestic and international, to perform vehicle audits and prototype fitments, ensuring proper fit and function of new and existing parts within designated vehicle applications
• Research and document product and vehicle related data
• Continuously enter, maintain, and update product data within the internal product information database
• Travel domestically and internationally as required to support audits, prototype fitments, and related product development activities
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• A High School Diploma or equivalent
• 2+ years of prior product development experience
• Meticulous attention to detail and mechanical aptitude
• Knowledge and interest in the automotive industry
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and strong data search and data entry skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with external contacts, customers, and internal departments
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely in both verbal and written formats
• Valid driver’s license and demonstrated safe driving record
• Valid passport
• Must be authorized to work in the United States

Benefits

WeatherTech Direct offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including outstanding BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois medical plans; as well as dental, vision, short and long term disability, and company-paid life insurance. The 401(k) plan includes employer matching. Employees receive paid vacation, holidays, and personal time.