Sr. Technical Developer- Footwear Development

About the role

The Footwear Development team is responsible for the development of all Target-owned brands. This role involves starting from scratch and creating innovative products that meet guest expectations.

Responsibilities

• Drive cycle product and category strategy creation
• Collaborate with CFT to research and develop guest-focused Owned Brand product from concept through production
• Partner with Design, Merchandising, Sourcing and vendors to deliver on product objectives and business strategy while adhering to calendar timelines
• Create, maintain and complete accurate specifications and approvals in PLM system
• Communicate daily with internal and external partners to ensure high quality execution in materials, components, and fit
• Lead with CFT and vendors to define development and production feasibility
• Perform fit evaluation on samples for fit, construction, and quality
• Review and evaluate 3D/physical samples for quality and adherence to standards
• Lead in cycle technical research, wear testing, quality analysis, innovation and product solutions
• Partner proactively with overseas technical designers, production engineers and vendors to alleviate potential manufacturing, quality, and fit concerns within the product development cycle
• Conduct market research of competitors, benchmarks, and new opportunities to engineer value and drive development of cost viable quality products
• Support guest insights and product testing teams to drive guest research and wear testing to build products that foster inclusivity
• Establish and enhance product development guidelines and standards by category and brand
• Mentor and lead others while fostering inclusivity and knowledge-sharing
• Strive for continuous improvement that drives product and process enhancements
• Perform other duties as required/assigned by manager

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree, AA or Certification in Apparel Manufacturing, Design, industrial design or equivalent
• 8+ years' experience in footwear product development with full knowledge of total production timeline
• Strong knowledge of footwear fit, construction, molds/blueprints, and lasts
• Current industry standard technical knowledge of footwear development and manufacturing processes, in both man-made and genuine leather materials
• Proven ability to influence and make decisions that align with company strategies
• Experience leading with and without authority to influence others and drive decision-making and achieving desired service levels
• Demonstrated curiosity, motivated to learn new skills and knowledge
• Proficient in use of relevant computer applications (Photoshop, Illustrator, Microsoft Office Suite, PLM system, 3D software)
• Expertise in fit, construction, and value engineering
• Ability to proactively trouble shoot and problem solve in a fast-paced, often changing, highly collaborative environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with ability to effectively influence
• Excellent prioritization and organizational skills

Qualifications

• Ability to be local and in office 3 days/week at our Downtown Minneapolis campus or willing to relocate to MN

Benefits

Target offers comprehensive health benefits and programs, including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, and more, to help you and your family take care of your whole selves. Other benefits include 401(k), employee discount, short term disability, long term disability, paid sick leave, paid national holidays, and paid vacation. For more information on benefits eligibility, visit this link.

Pay

The pay range is $95,000.00 - $171,000.00. Pay is based on several factors which vary based on position, including labor markets and in some instances may include education, work experience and certifications.

Schedule

This role requires the ability to be local and in office 3 days/week at our Downtown Minneapolis campus or willing to relocate to MN.