Apparel Developer - Men's

Position Summary

 

The Apparel Developer will utilize product and process knowledge to execute the development and on-time commercialization of all styles in the Men’s category. This position will lead the fabric and garment development process. Working together with the Product Line Manager and the Designer, the product developer will take the team’s vision to our nominated fabric mills to develop innovative, functional fabrics for exclusive use in Royal Robbins products. The product developer will then champion the garment development process and will work together with the Product Line Manager, Designer and Technical Designer to create innovative, category leading styles for commercialization.  The product developer will be the liaison between the product team, the fabric mills, the sourcing agents and the garment vendors in order to ensure a smooth product development process.

 

Position Responsibilities

 This position will lead the communication with the sourcing agent regarding fabric development, fabric and garment pricing, fabric testing and lab dips, strike offs and yarn-dye developments throughout the prototype process and through the sales sample deliveries. The product developer ensures that all appropriate development documentation is maintained for assigned styles, including product specs and prototype notes.This position will participate with the category product team in fit sessions and/or product reviews. The product developer should identify all key issues in product construction, material selection, manufacturing and pricing and collaborate on resolutions in a timely manner. The product developer is the gate keeper of the development calendar throughout the product process and will ensure all critical tasks are accomplished in a timely manner, while constantly being aware of the status of any deadlines or open issues.

 

 

Qualifications:Must have a thorough knowledge of garment construction and understand the challenges within each product concept (fabric, construction, dying, etc.) and aiding product development process.Demonstrated technical expertise in fabric and textiles, trims and garment fit/construction, costing, embroidery, and printing. Strong communications skills.Excellent problem solving and continual innovation skills.Ability to interpret design intent and offer alternative solutions. Fully responsible for accuracy in communication to the factories of all technical changes made to products during the development process. Demonstrated ability to maintain critical timelines and complete tasks on time, according to the company’s product development calendar. Knowledge of Web based apparel development systems. Experience in Gerber Web PDM a plus. Proficient information seeking skills, networking skills and drive for results.Ability to share ideas and develop effective responses.Knowledge of textile manufacturing and garment fit. Ability to read product specs. Strong computer skills especially focused on Excel, Windows and WebPDM Bachelor’s degree in Apparel/Textile Science, Technology, Textile Design, Merchandising, Engineering, Industrial Engineering or related field. Five to Seven years related experience, with comprehensive technical and industry knowledge as well as a holistic understanding of the product development process. Thrives working in a team environment and taps into every available skill set and helps to create an integrated work environment.Takes personal responsibility, is optimistic and results oriented.